Undergraduate biology programs are currently undergoing reform to involve students in biomedical research. Engaging students in more active, hands-on experiments allows students to discover scientific principles for themselves, and to develop techniques of critical thinking and problem solving. This models the world of real scientific research,…

Incorporating information literacy exercises into the science curriculum will help students to navigate through the myriad of information available in different formats, and to become better scientific thinkers and writers. Here we describe how we incorporated such exercises in introductory biology and evaluate their effectiveness in achieving our…

Describes a course in chemometrics offered at Tufts University which is designed to provide college chemistry majors with an understanding of potential roles which computers might play in chemical research. (CS)

Describes methods for using the high-resolution electron microscope in conjunction with other tools to reveal the identity and environment of atoms. Problems discussed include the ultimate structure of real crystalline solids including defect structure and the mechanisms of chemical reactions. (CS)

Examines the types of requests for information made by university students (N=60) as they evaluate scientific news briefs. Student requests most often focus on how research is conducted and why results might occur. Contains 47 references. (DDR)

Describes a project whereby students collect morphological and anatomical measurements concerning the response of pine to elevated levels of ozone. Suggests that student measurements represent a reliable source of data for scientists. Presents examples of student datasets and comparisons with reflectance data. Discusses the importance of being…

Introduces a lesson plan on astronomy and scientific research. Explains how astronomers conduct research and the detection methods they use. Provides demonstrations and ideas for students to build a giant model of the solar system. (YDS)

Describes the use of James Watson's book, "The Double Helix," as a multidisciplinary way of introducing students to actual science; the scientific method; dilemmas encountered in the world of research; and the rich setting of personalities, politics, and history in post-World War II Europe. (MKR)

A college shares insights on the development and integration of a new molecular biology major into the curriculum. (ZWH)

Presents and defends the thesis that either teaching or research alone is not of much value without its counterpart. The argument is not that of teaching versus research but rather how to strengthen the link between teaching and research in higher education. (PR)

Discusses a college science course designed for juniors and seniors who are going to be elementary teachers. Focuses on hands-on activities, understanding the nature of science, and conducting scientific research. Explores student misconceptions and conceptual changes on elementary science subjects. (YDS)

Describes the history of the study of dinosaurs and current topics of research in the field. Contains 18 references. (WRM)

In this article, we examine the role that different participant structures can play in supporting inquiry-based science learning. We frame mastering scientific inquiry as mastering the "what," "why," and "how" of the cultural tools that scientists employ. We present a participant structure we call the teacher as partner and show how it renders the…

Scientific work experience programs are those in which teachers work in business, industry, or academic settings and perform scientifically-related work. The presenters in this panel presentation describe the scientific work experience programs they are working with. One purpose of the presentations was describing the practical aspects of the…

A computational method is described for analyzing first-order kinetic data obtained at arbitrary time intervals. The method has uses in research and undergraduate instruction as well. (MR)