Discusses problems inherent in the content of modern language syllabuses. True communication occurs when the focus of classroom activities is on the message. The success of the lesson derives from the quality of the presentation and, crucially, the vocabulary list and the pupils' prior knowledge of the concepts underlying the content. (six…

The graduate program in French civilization at the Pennsylvania State University includes an experimental course in introductory teaching theory and methods, complemented by a one-credit course in research methods and bibliography. The methods course presents interdisciplinary techniques of cultural analysis and cultural history. An extensive…

An overview of how reading has been used in the English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) writing classroom is offered, example of changes in reading and writing models are examined, current views of the connections between reading and writing are discussed, and application of these connections in one advanced ESL writing class is reported. (85…

Described is a laboratory in which students are confronted with rigs built from full-sized industrial machinery and equipment. Students must draw a flow sheet, dismantle and draw key components, reassemble the parts, operate the rig, and interpret the run data. The laboratory and the course built around it are discussed. (KR)

Presents the framework for a chemical engineering course using ordinary differential equations to solve problems with the underlying strategy of concisely discussing the theory behind each solution technique without extensions to formal proofs. Includes typical class illustrations, student responses to this strategy, and reaction of the…

Traces the preparation of communicative syllabuses for courses at the School of Language and Culture for Foreigners in Siena, Italy. In particular, the communicative acts chosen for study, the language skills to be developed, the cultural content, and the teaching activities are discussed. (32 references) (CFM)

A model to illuminate and relate various twentieth-century philosophical perspectives on key questions about the nature of scientific theories and, therefore, aspects of the structure and development of postmodern science is described. The Scientific Theory Profile model then forms the basis for a course for science teachers in perspectives on the…

Describes an secondary art education course using the principles of discipline-based art education (DBAE). Argues that art production techniques and studio art must be included with the DBAE approach for a successful program. Provides an overview of the course content and teaching methods used in the program. (CFR)

The Temple University (Pennsylvania) advanced general dentistry program includes seminars and clinical rotations in social work, to help students gain an appreciation and working knowledge of social workers' function in health care provision, to improve interpersonal skills, to interact with social workers, to address diversity issues, and to…

Describes a mathematics and science course designed to inspire early childhood education preservice teachers. They learn to interest young children by engaging in the kinds of science and math activities used with young children. These activities arouse feelings, stimulate curiosity, and offer opportunity for engagement. (SM)

Tries to make explicit race/class/gender connections in an undergraduate seminar on stratification. Students learn about models of social class and mobility and ideas of inequality. Attempts to balance the syllabus by including material about different groups and a representative group of scholars. Describes classroom discussions and experiences.…

Describes an undergraduate, clinical, child psychology course combining classroom, practicum, and guest speaker components. Provides students with an overview of characteristics, clinical theory, and treatment of primary disorders and problems of childhood and adolescence. Attempts to create linkages between academia and practitioners. Evaluations…

The communicative/experiential syllabus explores new ways to teach and learn language, addressing concerns that language instruction focuses narrowly on the analytical aspect of language learning. In the syllabus, the classroom is considered a rich and authentic environment for experiences based on content, not just language, contributing to…

A project conducted during the last three years examined an undergraduate foreign language reading course, Technical Japanese, to understand the students' learning process. The course combines science with Japanese and includes note-taking skills as preparation for reading. (Contains 23 references.) (LB)

Presents issues and methods used in teaching an African American psychology course. Discusses theories about Afrocentrism, identity, education, family, and mental health as they relate to African Americans. Contends that the course adds diverse perspectives to the psychology curriculum. (CFR)