The Helping Relationship Inventory was used to see whether objective improvement in medical student (n=109) communication skills occurred in a relatively brief (nine-hour) small-group course in interviewing. The study demonstrated that even brief small-group interviewing courses can effect a positive change in communication skills. (Author/MSE)

The purpose of this study was to compare philosophy courses taught according to a conventional course structure (CCS) with philosophy courses taught according to a short course structure (SCS). (Author)

On an experimental basis the University of Colorado School of Medicine offered two concurrent anatomy courses: a traditional course emphasizing total dissection and a shorter one requiring some dissection but relying heavily on peer group interaction and audiovisual technology. Results of the experiment are presented with reasons for continuing…

Reports on an undergraduate earth science course for non-science majors structured around five-week minicourses. Evaluates student and teacher response to the program. (CP)

Describes a community interest short course in physics developed to increase awareness of the methods and principles of science. (SL)

Although pharmaceutical and biomedical educators are best prepared for teaching undergraduate nonprofessional drug-related courses, few students can capitalize upon such expertise. An alternative described by a course director is to train the college teachers of such students. Major topics presented and representative interim projects are…

Participants in a nationwide summer program of minicourses for adults over 60, called Elderhostel, live on campus and choose from at least three one-week courses taught by regular faculty. There are no exams, credits or grades. The logistics of the program and financial costs and problems are discussed. (JMD)

This article briefly describes a two-week course on the education of deaf-blind students, offered as part of a special education degree program at the University of Zimbabwe. The article summarizes course emphases (such as combining education and rehabilitation over the life cycle) and the course's coverage of diagnosis and assessment,…

With nationwide acceptance of writing across the curriculum, educators are now realizing the next wave in curriculum reform: speaking and listening across the curriculum. There is a movement to introduce speech across the curriculum of secondary schools and higher education. To learn any subject or interest area, students will utilize the skills…

Noting that there have been few papers or workshops which focus on designing/supervising independent study projects or internship programs, this short course explores the potential variety of independent study projects available in interpersonal and small group communication, rhetoric and communication theory, and organizational communication. The…

Describes and provides evaluation of a one semester minicourse curriculum for undergraduate earth science instruction. (CP)

The development, evaluation and underlying rationale of a two-day course on explaining and lecturing is described. It is argued that since lecturing is the major method of teaching in universities it is important to help lecturers improve their technique and make them aware of their strengths and weaknesses. (Author/MLW)

Examines activities and achievements of the Learning Center at Mid-America Nazarene College, Kansas. Lists standard services, emphasizing tutoring and minisessions in math, writing, and study skills. Outlines outreach services including supplementary course instruction, cognitive learning styles assessment, faculty assistance, and text readability…

The faculty of the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, has designed a rotation in the otolaryngology service, that is a basic clinical orientation to ear, nose and throat medicine, to fit the one-month block committed by the local family practice residency training program. The program is described and its…

Characteristics of a minicourse developed at Macquarie University in Australia, its application in Australia, and potential for countries in the Asia-Pacific region are discussed. A minicourse is defined as an entire course of studies for a group, similar to a conventional course but compressed into a few hours. The Australian minicourse is…