Suggested specifications for microscopes for various applications are given. A discussion of the ways of meeting these specifications in practice is illustrated by current models from British and foreign manufacturers. (BB)

Reviews new science equipment and products for the laboratory. Includes hand-held calculators, fiberglass fume hoods, motorized microtomy, disposable mouse cages, and electric timers. Describes 11 products total. Provides manufacturer name, address, and price. (MA)

This is a report on a study done in 1976 of safety arrangements and procedures in teaching, research, and medical establishments in the United States. The results show that the Occupational Safety & Health Act (OSHA) has not yet had much impact as far as safety in teaching and research is concerned. (BB)

A program is presented for the control of biological hazards in research centers, to ensure that all investigative activities are conducted in a manner that presents the least possible hazard to employees, students, and the community. (MB)

Describes laboratory and lecture activities in an introductory cell physiology course that encourage students to start thinking of themselves as scientists. (DKM)

Describes an approach to incorporating cooperative learning into the anatomy laboratory without diminishing the quality of instruction of the subject matter. Discusses the background, organization of groups and group tasks, evaluation of the approach, and potential disadvantages of cooperative learning. Contains 11 references. (JRH)

Compares outcomes of open-inquiry and expository versions of a chemistry laboratory experiment at the university level. Investigates whether the two versions would result in different outcomes depending upon students' attitudes towards learning. Indicates that the open-inquiry version shows the most positive outcomes, and students with low…

Describes the importance of statistical reasoning in understanding modern science and critically evaluating information. Uses spreadsheet programs and the black box approach to teach basic concepts of statistical reasoning. Presents examples of the role of statistical thinking in the disciplines of biology, chemistry, physics, and geology.…

Explores the differences between science students' and teachers' perceptions of laboratory environments. Surveyed more than 1000 junior high school students and their science teachers in Taiwan and concludes that students are more dissatisfied with approaches to laboratory activities than their teachers. Suggests epistemological views as one of…

Describes a service learning project in the environmental sciences in which students learn about global sustainability through exploring issues such as energy and its effects on their everyday lives. (YDS)

Describes strategies for facilitating student science investigations and alleviating common weaknesses associated with student performance. Includes checklist criteria for performance on investigative tasks and an example of an assessment rubric for the investigation of the effect of temperature on enzyme activity. (Author/KHR)

Describes a teaching method using computer probeware to enhance students' laboratory experiences. Discusses the role of computer probeware in the science classroom, how probeware affects learning, and how it affects efficiency. (KHR)

Presents a case study of an unsafe situation in a science laboratory and its administrative consequences. Discusses issues related to laboratory safety and faculty evaluation. (JRH)

Authors describe the origin of practical science in English school education and trace its history up until the end of the nineteenth century. Practical work by this time was held in high esteem by most science educators and was now regarded as an essential requirement for science teaching. (over 25 references) (Author/PR)

Describes the adaptation of thermite (aluminum with metal oxides) reactions from whole-class demonstrations to student-run micro-reactions. Lists detailed directions and possible variations of the experiment. (WRM)