Discussion of constructivist learning environments and the instructor's role focuses on interaction in electronic learning (elearning) environments. Highlights include learning-centered environments; situated learning; pre-learning activities; active learning; interactive learning; interaction with content, peers, and instructor; feedback and…

Uses the semantic differential method to survey student attitudes toward a new "writing for print media" course in New Mexico State University's journalism department. Finds that students gained confidence in themselves and their professional potential when exposed to highly professional requirements. Shows that this longitudinal method…

Describes a business communication instruction method which integrates business research techniques and communication skills. Offers theoretical justification for such integration and discusses the premises and benefits of a course based on the integration. Describes the course in detail and evaluates its strengths and weaknesses. (SG)

Describes an instructional methodology developed and implemented at Sunderland Polytechnic that uses formal computer program design methods to teach computer programing in computer science and data processing courses. Jackson Structured Programming is explained, and the results of an evaluation by both teaching staff and students are presented.…

Considers how the fields of world studies or global education may provide insight and contribute to enhance student understanding in geography courses. Provides a series of checklists which a geography department may use to evaluate the global dimensions in their programs, goals and objectives, resources, and teaching strategies. (LS)

Describes the objectives, development, and implementation of a course offered by a community college library that was designed to develop skills in electronic access to information. The discussion covers problems encountered in offering the course and an evaluation of its effectiveness. The lesson format used in the course is outlined. (CLB)

Explains a state standardized science program evaluation system that includes hands-on activities. Explains the syllabus, workshops, purpose of test, test features and its component parts including sample questions. (RT)

Describes an experimental course involving teacher debate designed to utilize controversy while avoiding unfair teacher influence. Outlines the course format and analyzes it from the teacher and student perspective. Makes observations concerning difficulties experienced and offers suggestions for those readers wishing to replicate the procedure.…

Clarifies the advantages and disadvantages of teaching state and local history. Lists suggestions made by J. J. Blaga and L. E. Nielson for the improvement of state studies. Notes that these suggestions have significance for the long term but that methods for short-term improvement have not been forthcoming. (KO)

Argues that assessment, evaluation, and reporting are intrinsically linked, and together form a cycle that provides information about individual students, the instructor, the course of study, and the educational environment. Offers educators a list of principles concerning assessment, evaluation, and reporting that challenges many current…

A computer-based replacement for an electronics laboratory experiment was created and tested on second-year undergraduate students in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southampton (England). Responses, assessed by questionnaire, showed that computer-assisted learning techniques provide a viable means for teaching…

Describes the experiential learning sequence of a required senior-level natural science and environmental studies course; the role of a technical communication consultant contracted to conduct a needs assessment for improving the students' technical communications skills; and the consultant's results and recommendations. (MDH)

Describes a study of the effects of small group instruction on the academic performance of underprepared minority college students enrolled in orientation courses. Students were placed in groups of four to engage in task-process oriented activities, while control group students received traditional lecture-oriented instruction. Finds higher scores…

A forestry and agronomy course at Iowa State University incorporates problem-based team projects on real-world situations as a means of providing students with integrative and meaningful experiential learning. Student evaluations of these courses indicate that students recognize and appreciate the integrative nature of the problem-based team…

Reports on one rigorous evaluation and search for desired components of a science methods course at a large state university. Student evaluations of assignments are used to rate them for effectiveness. Provides a model for other instructors interested in course evaluation. (LZ)