Reviews of the state of biology fieldwork in UK schools and universities at the beginning of the twenty-first century (Barker, Slingsby, and Tilling 2002; Smith 2004) were not entirely pessimistic; rather they suggested ways forward that might lead to an increase in fieldwork. Whether their hopes have been realised has, perhaps, been revealed by…

Summarizes results of a three-item questionnaire returned by 43 Michigan institutions expressing views on wearing contact lenses in chemical laboratories. Questions focused on eye protection, type of protection, and use of contact lenses. (SK)

Describes a study that assessed the impact of four half-hour science programs for fourth graders aired on commercial radio in a causal-comparative between-groups study with prebroadcast and postbroadcast questionnaires. Formative and summative evaluation of the programs is described, and results are reviewed. (21 references) (LRW)

Criticizes the methodology of a questionnaire-based study that found a discrepancy between the beliefs of sexually active adolescents about condoms and their use of condoms. Discusses six methodological problems in the study to demonstrate how the overly simplified treatment of complex behavior can lead to invalid conclusions. (FMW)

Discussion of ethics in librarianship focuses on a study of library schools accredited by the American Library Association that was conducted to provide factual information about how the study of ethics in librarianship is currently incorporated into the curriculum. Specific courses on ethics and courses that incorporate ethics are examined.…

Discusses approaches used to educate library professionals and paraprofessionals and examines the role of library technicians in a cataloging unit. Results of a survey of 20 library technicians employed in six public, academic, and special libraries in Ontario are reported, noting responsibilities and career satisfaction. Twenty-four references…

Examines the use of small-scale databases for introductory economic and social science statistics in higher education. The results of a research project at Portsmouth Polytechnic that used a specially written database are reported, the use of spreadsheets is discussed, and future considerations are suggested. (17 references) (LRW)

Papers on national library services and activities, which were presented at the 1983 International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA) conference, include: (1) "The National Library of China in its Gradual Application of Modern Technology," a discussion by Zhu Nan and Zhu Yan (China) of microform usage and library automation; (2)…

This survey of 124 special librarians suggests that library schools should emphasize a well-rounded curriculum to prepare students to function effectively in any professional position, rather than to train them for specific positions. The questionnaire used focuses on educational experience, and is appended. (Author/LRW)

Discusses an English for science and technology course at Simon Bolivar University in Venezuela in which students were allowed to choose reading activities and alternative forms of assessment were implemented. Results of a questionnaire used to evaluate the course are provided. (Author/VWL)

Describes the Information Technology (IT) in Mathematics Project in Great Britain, which surveyed the extent to which IT was used in the teaching of mathematics and examined the extent to which IT skills could or should be taught within mathematics. Experiences with spreadsheets and LOGO are described. (seven references) (LRW)

Nine articles address the topic of professionalism among school librarians. Highlights include personal initiative and suggestions for growing professionally, a professional involvement profile, career and job options, best-ever workshops, professional growth through travel, from librarian to computer coordinator, illustrated booktalks, the school…

Describes results of a survey of 732 students in 12 Departments of Information and Library Studies (DILSs) that measured prior experiences in office automation skills, their assessment of their knowledge and confidence with computers, the level of information technology (IT) provided, and whether their IT training was adequate for future…

Discussion of the value of diffusion of innovation theory for predicting the implementation of end-user online searching highlights a study of Canadian health professionals who were early adopters of end-user searching. User perceptions are emphasized, and the use of diffusion of innovation theory in information science research is recommended.…

Three articles about masters's level library and information science students discuss factors to be considered in diversifying a historically homogeneous student body; strategies for multicultural admissions and recruitment; and the importance of field experiences in preparing information professionals for diverse employment opportunities.…