The work describes an analogy-based small oscillations analysis of a standard static equilibrium lab problem. In addition to force analysis, a potential energy function for the system is developed, and by drawing out mathematical similarities to the simple harmonic oscillator, we are able to describe (and experimentally verify) the period of small…

We present a collection of hands-on experiments that collectively teach precollege students fundamental concepts of polymer synthesis and characterization. These interactive experiments are performed annually as part of an all-day outreach event for high school students that can inform the development of ongoing polymer education efforts in a…

The antibacterial chemical triclosan is a common component in personal care products but recently the subject of many reports concerning environmental toxicity and health impacts. Although triclosan concentration in a soap can be determined simply via high-performance liquid chromatography, this is a technique not routinely available in the…

Research has shown that certain ways of teaching can make a difference in whether students learn standards-based content. Many strategies have proven to be effective in teaching literacy, mathematics, science and social studies. These strategies have facilitated blending academic and career/technical subjects to make learning more meaningful for…

A wind energy focused curriculum for grades 4-8 was designed and implemented to promote the understanding of wind energy concepts with American Indian students. 57 students who participated in the 2009 summer program of the "Reach for the Sky" (RFTS) Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) received the curriculum. The…

One of the most important concepts being taught in principles classes is the idea of "thinking on the margin." It can also be one of the most difficult to get across. One of the most telling examples, according to this author, comes in trying to get students to learn the profit maximizing condition for perfectly competitive firms. She…

THE SPONTANEOUS BEHAVIOR OF A TEACHER AND HOW THIS BEHAVIOR AFFECTS LEARNING IN THE CLASSROOM WERE INVESTIGATED. INDEPENDENT VARIABLES IN THE STUDY WERE DIRECT TEACHER INFLUENCE, AND THE NATURE OF THE SPECIFIC LEARNING TASK. THE DEPENDENT VARIABLES WERE THE ACTUAL MEASURES OF LEARNING, INCLUDING AWARENESS OF FACTS, APPLICATION OF PRINCIPLES TO…

THE OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY WERE TO COMPARE EDUCATIONAL TOYS AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL NONPRODUCING MOCKUPS WITH COMMERCIAL PLASTICS PROCESSING EQUIPMENT FOR RELATIVE EFFECTIVENESS OF TEACHING PLASTIC CONCEPTS, AND TO COMPARE THE RELATIVE EFFECTIVENESS OF THESE TWO METHODS IN DEVELOPING MANUAL DEXTERITY. TREATMENT A (EDUCATIONAL TOYS AND MOCKUPS) WAS…

Development of projects designed to improve curriculum programs of schools with American Indian student populations in Minnesota and to train teachers and adults to improve educational programs for Indians is discussed in this report by the University of Minnesota Training Center for Community Programs (TCCP). Among the major developments…