Issues of race and marginalization do not often intersect with publications related to developmental education and learning assistance. Too often, these issues have been ignored. This guide to antiracism policies and practices for student-led study groups is based on a careful review of scholarly articles, books, existing guides, practical…

The authors present details of a research-based course in development economics taught at a private liberal arts college. There were three key elements in this class: teaching of applied econometrics, group presentations reviewing published and working papers in development economics, and using concepts taught in class to write an original…

This qualitative study investigated 14 Chinese international graduate students' lived experiences with group work and the effects of group work on their English communicative competence. The interview results showed that these participants' attitudes towards group work went through changes from initial inadaptation or dislike to later adaptation…

This paper is centered on getting students to understand the nature of science (NOS) by considering historical material in relation to modern philosophers of science. This paper incorporates the methodology of contrasting cases in the calculus-based introductory physics course on optics and modern physics. Students study one philosopher all…

A critical step in problem-based learning (PBL) units occurs when groups present their solution to the central problem. This is challenging for middle school students because it involves the creation of an evidence-based argument (Krajcik et al., "Journal of the Learning Sciences" 7:313-350, 1998). Using a mixed method design, this study…

A challenge faced by many instructors of systems analysis and design courses is the selection or development of projects that provide challenging, yet suitable, learning experiences for the students. Employing a system development project case in undergraduate MIS courses offers students a multitude of opportunities to experientially examine…

A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) laboratory experiment based on the separation of four prescription drugs (disopyramide, lidocaine, procainamide, and quinidine) is presented. The experiment is set within the forensic science context of the discovery of a patient's mysterious death where a drug overdose is suspected. Each lab group…

This report describes a biochemistry laboratory that is completely project-oriented. Upper-level biology and chemistry majors work in teams to purify a protein of their choice. After the student groups have completed literature searches, ordered reagents, and made buffers they continue to learn basic protein purification and biochemical techniques…

This study assessed the extent to which a one-time experiential intervention improved intercultural awareness and sensitivity among first-year medical students. The students participated in group activities in which they shared personal experiences, solved a hypothetical problem, and engaged in team building exercises. Post-intervention, students…

Argues that current social studies textbooks lack coherent formats, decipherable vocabulary, clearly written paragraphs, and presume background information which students lack. Presents a lesson which combines information from research in reading and cooperative learning techniques in an attempt to encourage discussion of information and eventual…

Asserts that holidays offer excellent opportunities to teach about cultural diversity and enrich the social studies curriculum. Provides five activities for teaching about holidays in elementary schools. Includes three charts keyed to the activities. (CFR)

Describes an economic development simulation in which student groups roleplay the leadership of a developing nation. Suggests a semester schedule and provides a number of student materials that include a map and a project participation rating check sheet. Describes information sources where materials may be obtained for further study. (KO)

Describes a map activity for studying the nine nations of the United States using cooperative learning techniques. The concept of geographic region is discussed and linked to the term "nine nations." Lesson plan, student worksheets, maps, and other materials are included. Indicates the software used to produce maps. (KO)

Outlines a series of creative ideas designed to increase the membership and effectiveness of a campus music organization. Ideas are collected under the broad categories of recruitment, retention, programs, special events, and fundraising. Suggestions include partnerships with other organizations, mentoring programs, and others. (MJP)

Presents a two to six day classroom simulation unit, "Survival or Starvation," designed to enhance student understanding of world problems. States that the simulation has been successfully used with fifth grade to adult groups. Provides daily instruction plans and describes several cooperative learning methods. Lists materials needed, and provides…