A division of chemical education has been created within the chemistry department at Purdue University. The nature of chemical education, impediments to research and development in chemical education, and future directions of the division are discussed. (JN)

Suggests that academic departments reshape the intellectual climate for chemistry education as one way to ensure the future of chemistry. Current practices in chemistry and possible benefits which may result if the system is modified are examined. These benefits include better public support and understanding of chemistry. (JN)

Presents strategic planning designed to help academic institutions. Describes five key elements: situation analysis; mission statement; objectives; creating strategies; and tactics. Discusses the implementation, benefits, and side-effects of strategic planning. (YP)

Highlights an American Chemical Society (ACS) survey of 103 chemistry departments on their instrumentation needs. The 2-year study affirms that instruments used for chemical research and education are becoming outdated because of their age and changes in technology. The survey also reveals how departments plan to use newly acquired instruments.…

Describes the University of Kansas chemistry department's safety program. Comprehensive regulation, undergraduate regulations, safety equipment, handling accidents, inspections, and training are addressed. (JN)

Questionnaire responses from 193 high schools indicate that very few science teachers use microcomputers regularly in classrooms. Descriptions of schools/science departments, background information on faculty using microcomputers, and nature/extent of utilization are discussed along with possible causes of limited use and recommendations for…

Provides summary results on a copy of the questionnaire completed by 91 physiology department chairmen. Also includes tables with data from past surveys for comparative purposes. Areas addressed include faculty, unfilled positions, training support, postdoctorates, salaries, space assigned to department (excluding lecture halls), and others. (JN)

Presents an appendix to the Committee on Professional Training (CPT) of the Division of Chemical Health and Safety of the American Chemical Society. The information is applicable to chemical health and safety policies and practices within the chemistry department of an academic institution. Includes lists of references with safety information. (JN)

Basic science departments at Johns Hopkins University (Maryland) responded to pressure to provide more service with fewer resources by using administrative restructuring to meet the needs of research faculty and a growing research program. A collective approach to restructuring, involving interdepartmental cooperation and collegiality, was…

Presents excerpts of a survey on the instrument status in chemistry departments and the perceived needs of those departments for new instruments. Responses are based on data from 32 chemistry departments at major research institutions, 71 departments at smaller schools, and 13 chemical engineering departments. (JN)

In this study we explored how the science department shaped the relationship between a science department head, Mr Greg, and a teacher, Ms Horton, as they grappled with their expectations of, and responsibilities for, teaching and leadership in the daily life in the department. We found that, from their life histories and their positions in the…

Examines the possible advantages of subject area specialists for elementary science. Discusses four different implementation models: (1) Physical education teacher model; (2) Media center model; (3) Departmentalized model; and (4) School-within-a-school model. (YP)

Described is a physics course for satisfying the junior-year writing requirement. Gives nine assignment examples of the course. Discusses the use of the writing component as a teaching aid in junior level "Electricity and Magnetism" course. (YP)

Investigated is the impact on attitudes of prospective elementary school teachers of pragmatic, success-oriented courses in science as prerequisites for entry into science methods courses. A need for exposing prospective teachers to instructional strategies and experiences which are consistent with teaching practices and curricula employed in a…

A longitudinal study of departmental peer review at the University of Wisconsin examined (1) how teaching, scholarship, institutional service, and community outreach relate to faculty ratings; (2) relationships between academic rank, merit pay, and base salary change and merit performance; and (3) the influence of state and institutional budgeting…