Discusses the vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) which is used to investigate the neural basis for motor learning in monkeys. Suggests organizing principles that may apply in forms of motor learning as a result of similarities among VOR and other motor systems. (Author/RT)

Findings from 55 female and 42 male college students revealed that inclination toward mathematics/science was significantly, positively, and similarly related to likely careers in mathematical sciences. For physical and engineering science careers, however, there was little or no relationship between self-described interest in science and…

Reports on the design and testing of student-directed investigations for use in large enrollment biology courses. Describes a set of experiments that include the preparation and study of the enzyme tyrosinase. (DDR)

Evaluates the extent to which 14 research skills were enhanced by science undergraduates' (N=57) participation in an undergraduate research experience (URE). Post-URE female interns rated their ability to understand concepts in their field significantly lower and perceived less of an increase in their ability to formulate research hypotheses than…

In this study, we explore an alternate mode for teaching and learning the dynamic, three-dimensional (3D) relationships that are central to understanding astronomical concepts. To this end, we implemented an innovative undergraduate course in which we used inexpensive computer modeling tools. As the second of a two-paper series, this report…

This paper presents a generally applicable method for characterizing subjects' hypothesis-testing behaviour based on a synthesis that extends on previous work. Beginning with a transcript of subjects' speech and videotape of their actions, a Reasoning Map is created that depicts the flow of their hypotheses, tests, predictions, results, and…

As part of a first-year college Introductory Physics course, I have students construct an Excel[R]: spreadsheet based on the differential equation for pendulum motion (we take a pendulum having a light bar rather than a string, so it can go "over the top"). In extensive discussions with the students, I find that forcing them to make the…

This article describes an exploration into improving the process and the outcome of learning in interactive teaching at the first-year university physics level, using what is becoming widely known as the "variation approach to learning." To explore this approach we chose an area of mechanics that is widely known to pose learning…

This study investigates the effect of computer animation on assessment and the conditions under which animation may improve or hinder assessment of conceptual understanding in physics. An instrument was developed by replacing static pictures and descriptions of motion with computer animations on the Force Concept Inventory, a commonly used pencil…

A study followed 445 Wellesley College (Massachusetts) women students matriculating in 1991 through their college years to isolate factors associated with persistence in math and science. Data were gathered through three surveys (at orientation, at the end of the sophomore year, and before graduation) and in focus groups over the 4 years of the…

Data presented in this report were collected in the 19th Annual National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health Survey of Graduate Students and Postdoctorates in Science and Engineering of 1990. The survey universe was composed of all institutions in the United States with departments or programs offering courses of study at the…

This conference on physics education was held to improve cooperative efforts in connection with 12 topics previously identified by a survey. A working group was organized in association with each of these topics with the hope of creating or reinforcing a network. Working groups included: network development procedures; graduate education and…

Two instructional methodologies are described in this article: (1) a case study approach is advocated for the relevance and motivation it provides, and (2) a lecture and group study approach in which behavioral objectives must be met. (CP)

Reports the results of a questionnaire designed to obtain data on enrollments, graduates, growth status, and other facets of baccalaureate programs in engineering technology. (GS)

Contemporary researchers often refer to the information processing paradigm to exlain the relative ineffectiveness of contemporary instructional techniques for modifying incorrect scientific concepts that students often bring to a learning situation. As a result of this research, instructional procedures have been developed that maximize the…