The use of numerical simulations to design and analyze new products requires both conceptual and operational knowledge. This paper describes COMPANION: an intelligent multimedia system for vocational training used by engineers and technicians. A key concept in terms of training methodology is that of "situated learning," or continuous…

Concern over the under representation of women and minorities in the natural sciences and engineering led to the research reported in this document. The project surveyed a stratified sample of 1,651 college seniors who registered to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and who were majoring in natural sciences, mathematics, computer…

In 1982 and 1983 the Measurement and Evaluation Center of the University of Texas at Austin conducted a set of three studies analyzing student performance in a physics course required for engineering students (Physics 303K) in relation to the students' scores on the College board Mathematics Level 1 and Physics tests and to an introductory physics…

This report evaluates the 1996 Connecticut Pre-Engineering Program (CPEP) Summer Science Camp, a 5-week educational program for upper middle school students that emphasizes processes of thinking and development of personal and social attitudes that are appropriate for academic success, especially in the areas of mathematics and science.…

This book presents pioneering work in teaching by scientists, mathematicians, and engineers to attract and retain women in these areas. The physical sciences, mathematics, and engineering persist as the professional areas where women have not yet broken the gender barrier. A severe shortage of scientists beginning in the mid-1990s is predicted and…

Service learning refers to a form of experiential education that emphasizes for students the importance of accomplishing tasks that meet the needs of others. This paper describes the Service Learning Projects developed by the University of Iowa's Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program. The purpose of the program is to design, implement,…

A project was undertaken to develop a strategic plan to implement a multisite electronic engineering technology (EET) program at Pennsylvania's Community College of Allegheny County. Specifically, the project sought to determine how electronic communication technologies could provide a virtual learning community for the program; appropriate plans…

Effective science teaching is a topic of concern to many science educators. Throughout its six chapters, this book provides research findings of the effectiveness of science teachers in the classroom. The heart of effective teaching is the active involvement of students in scientific research projects. Chapter one, "Aims and Unresolved Tensions,"…

On a biennial basis since 1986, the National Science Foundation has collected data on issues related to Science and Engineering (S&E) research facilities at U.S. colleges and universities. This report presents the major findings from the 1996 survey and compares them with those from earlier efforts. A brief description of the study methods…

To increase women's participation in science and engineering, many barriers must be overcome. This book, an outcome of a conference held by the National Research Council's Committee on Women in Science and Engineering, summarizes presentations of many experts and presents information on specific strategies for increasing the participation of women…

The recommended Senate amendment to the bill (H.R. 996) to establish the Congressional Scholarships for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering, and the joint explanatory statement of the committee of conference are presented. The sections to be amended include the following: (1) Mathematics, Science and Technology Improvements; (2) Higher…

The data presented in this report show trends in doctorate production by science and engineering (S&E) field and recipient characteristics, institutions awarding doctorates, and postgraduation plans of recipients. The data comes from the Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED), which is conducted annually. Doctoral degrees such as the Ph.D. or D.Sc. are…

Academic research makes a key contribution to the viability and competitiveness of U.S. technology in the new global markets, as well as to the quality of life of citizens. This report provides a broad quantitative picture of the cost, availability, and the condition of existing research facilities. Data on current spending, sources of support,…

Because undergraduate education is the foundation for graduate studies, it is important to know where our Nation's science and engineering (S&E) doctorate recipients are receiving their undergraduate training. Specifically, this report addresses the following broad questions: (1) What are the undergraduate origins of S&E doctorate holders? (2)…

This document reports a survey instituted to compare the attitudes of students at a Christian college (Prairie Bible College) in Alberta, Canada with those of college students in general concerning the possible use of genetic manipulation. Comparison was made with the findings of a 1990 study by Geremia Veglia, et al., "Public Attitudes…