Attempts to clarify the role of grammar in second-language instruction. It is suggested that changes in language teaching have encouraged the view that grammar is one of several dimensions along which learners need to progress to achieve greater proficiency but that it should not be dominant. (22 references) (CK)

A University of Idaho introductory course in political science describes basic concepts, institutions, and processes of politics and relate their importance to students' daily lives. The course is comparative in organization and structured to promote critical and analytical thinking about politics. (MSE)

Reviews the resurgence in the use of literature in the English-as-a-Second-Language classroom and reports on a writing class at a technical university in Singapore. The course included both reading and oral report components. Only general guidelines were given on principles of organization and presentation. Results indicate improvement in student…

This study compared the effects of multiple versus single deadline contingencies on distribution of unit-mastery test taking by students in four university classes taught using the personalized system of instruction. Rate of test taking was most uniform when multiple deadlines were imposed throughout the course. (Author/DB)

Argues that the oral communication needs of the massive influx of English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) sojourner students can be met more effectively in exclusive sections than by mainstreaming them into regular sections. Considers the problem of ESL students' noninvolvement because of personal fears, cultural differences, and classroom practices.…

Data from 20,000 student ratings of 224 undergraduate courses at the University of Canterbury (England) were analyzed to explore the relationship between the ratings and course characteristics. The ratings were found to be stable and significantly related to academic field, class size, percentage of full-time students, academic year of the course,…

A University of Redlands (California) calculus course was redesigned to include computer demonstrations and homework assignments in which the computer could play an important role. Comparison of results of this instruction with that using traditional methods suggest the approach using computers has merit. (MSE)

Discusses two upper division writing-intensive courses, Sociological Theory and Sociology of Religion, offered at Millsaps College (Mississippi). Argues that greater emphasis on writing in the upper-division sociology courses allows students to become better learners and better sociologists. (DB)

Describes a physics-curriculum project that utilizes hypermedia and an historical, conceptual approach. Argues that textbooks are often boring and are inadequate tools for student learning. Contains 32 references. (DDR)

Concludes that creating online instructional sites by hand with the help of an HTML editor is generally preferable to using "course-in-a-box" software because instructors can select the components needed to support their pedagogy and construct successful learning experiences for their students. (RS)

Describes the creation of a user-friendly manual for students interested in taking Developmental Psychology as an independent-study course. Outlines the process followed by the author to create the course and manual. Discusses all components of the course: test, films, and numerous examples of student-initiated activities. Mentions student…

Criticizes the use of a conceptual matrix in an undergraduate history of economic thought course. A conceptual matrix is a visual display advocated by John Bean and Dean Peterson that cross references normative and economic issues with their historical contexts. Argues that this promotes rote learning and stifles critical thinking. (MJP)

Considers technologies needed for higher education institutions who are offering program-based or knowledge unit-based approaches to meet learners' needs. Highlights include integrated information systems; technology requirements and architectures; user tools and functionalities, including Web-based course management systems and knowledge…

Describes a study that investigated the effects of course structure variables, including course length and course frequency, on the computer anxiety, confidence, and attitudes of pre- and inservice teachers. Results show students in courses that met over a longer period of time had significantly greater changes in computer anxiety, confidence, and…

Demonstrates that popular music's potential as a tool for teaching interactive introductory sociology courses is enhanced when a cultural analysis of a specific music genre is incorporated into the classroom. Presents a two-part model for integrating a cultural analysis of heavy metal music and its subculture into the introductory course. Includes…