Sample records for basic introductory information

  1. Linking Introductory Astronomy Students' Basic Science Knowledge, Beliefs, Attitudes, Sources of Information, and Information Literacy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Buxner, Sanlyn R.; Impey, Chris D.; Romine, James; Nieberding, Megan

    2018-01-01

    [This paper is part of the Focused Collection on Astronomy Education Research.] We report on a study of almost 13 000 undergraduate students enrolled in introductory astronomy courses at the University of Arizona. From 1989 to 2016, students completed a basic science knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes survey. From 2014 to 2016, a subset of the…

  2. A Brief Look at Introductory Information Science in Library Schools, 1980.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Davis, Charles H.; Shaw, Debora

    1981-01-01

    Reports the extent and content of introductory information science instruction at 79 of the 105 member schools of the Association of American Library Schools (AALS). Of the 58 schools offering computer programming instruction, 38 teach BASIC; 18, PL/I-PL/C; 15, COBOL; and 12, FORTRAN. Twelve references are listed. (RAA)

  3. Basic Questions for Introductory Sociology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Parmley, Ingram C.

    1980-01-01

    Looks at five questions that serve as the core of an introductory sociology course, presenting the essence of sociology without inundating the student with information: What is sociology? How do societies develop rules for living? What if the rules don't work? How are new rules developed? So what? (AYC)

  4. Metrics for Good Measure. Level III. Instructor's Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cooper, Gloria S.; And Others

    This guide and the accompanying student workbook (separate document) comprise the Adult Basic Education Level III (grades 7, 8, and 9) package on the metric system. An introductory section provides background information on adult basic daily living skills, a discussion of the design and use of the student workbook, and information on what the…

  5. Metrics for Good Measure. Level II. Instructor's Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cooper, Gloria S.; And Others

    This guide and the accompanying student workbook (separate document) comprise the Adult Basic Education Level II (grades 4, 5, and 6) package on the metric system. An introductory section provides background information on adult basic daily living skills, a discussion of the design and use of the student workbook, and information on what the…

  6. Comparisons Between Science Knowledge, Interest, and Information Literacy of Learners in Introductory Astronomy Courses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Buxner, Sanlyn; Impey, Chris David; Formanek, Martin; Wenger, Matthew

    2018-01-01

    Introductory astronomy courses are exciting opportunities to engage non-major students in scientific issues, new discoveries, and scientific thinking. Many undergraduate students take these courses to complete their general education requirements. Many free-choice learners also take these courses, but for their own interest. We report on a study comparing the basic science knowledge, interest in science, and information literacy of undergraduate students and free choice learners enrolled in introductory astronomy courses run by the University of Arizona. Undergraduate students take both in-person and online courses for college credit. Free choice learners enroll in massive open online courses (MOOCs), through commercial platforms, that can earn them a certificate (although most do not take advantage of that opportunity). In general, we find that undergraduate students outperform the general public on basic science knowledge and that learners in our astronomy MOOCs outperform the undergraduate students in the study. Learners in the MOOC have higher interest in science in general. Overall, learners in both groups report getting information about science from online sources. Additionally, learners’ judgement of the reliability of different sources of information is weakly related to their basic science knowledge and more strongly related to how they describe what it means to study something scientifically. We discuss the implications of our findings for both undergraduate students and free-choice learners as well as instructors of these types of courses.

  7. Hand-waving and interpretive dance: an introductory course on tensor networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bridgeman, Jacob C.; Chubb, Christopher T.

    2017-06-01

    The curse of dimensionality associated with the Hilbert space of spin systems provides a significant obstruction to the study of condensed matter systems. Tensor networks have proven an important tool in attempting to overcome this difficulty in both the numerical and analytic regimes. These notes form the basis for a seven lecture course, introducing the basics of a range of common tensor networks and algorithms. In particular, we cover: introductory tensor network notation, applications to quantum information, basic properties of matrix product states, a classification of quantum phases using tensor networks, algorithms for finding matrix product states, basic properties of projected entangled pair states, and multiscale entanglement renormalisation ansatz states. The lectures are intended to be generally accessible, although the relevance of many of the examples may be lost on students without a background in many-body physics/quantum information. For each lecture, several problems are given, with worked solutions in an ancillary file.

  8. Basic Communication Course Annual. Volume 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hugenberg, Lawrence W., Ed.

    This volume of an annual collection of essays relating to instruction in the basic communication course is presented in five sections: (1) Six Approaches to the Introductory Course: A Forum; (2) 1990 Basic Course Committee Award Winning Papers; (3) Instruction in the Introductory Communication Course; (4) Research on the Introductory Communication…

  9. The Video Handbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    1972

    In order to provide basic technical and production information for closed-circuit television, the editors have assembled this series of papers. Deisgned as an introductory guide for those entering the field, the handbook covers the basic areas of non-broadcast television. Starting with facilities and equipment the guide outlines the planning and…

  10. The Computer as a Tutorial Laboratory: The Stanford BIP Project.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barr, Avron; And Others

    The BASIC Instructional Program (BIP) is an interactive problem-solving laboratory that offers tutorial assistance to students solving introductory programing problems in the BASIC language. After a brief review of the rationale and origins of the BIP instructional system, the design and implementation of BIP's curriculum information network are…

  11. Electrical Experiments. VT-214-12-3. Part III. Basic Electronics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Connecticut State Dept. of Education, Hartford. Div. of Vocational Education.

    Designed for high school electronics students, this third document in a series of six electrical learning activity packages focuses on basic electronics. An introductory section gives the objective for the activities, an introduction, and an outline of the content. The remainder of the activity book is comprised of information sheets and job…

  12. Infotech Interactive: Increasing Student Participation Using Multimedia.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baxter, Anthony Q.

    Multimedia techniques allow one to present information using text, video, animations, and sound. "Infotech Interactive" is a CD-ROM multimedia product developed to enhance an introductory computing concepts course. The software includes the following module topics: (1) "Mouse Basics"; (2) "Data into Information"; (3)…

  13. Developmental Disabilities: A Summary of Major Classifications and Glossary of Terms. Parent Awareness Program, 1982-1983. Revised.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Knudstrup, Katherine; And Others

    Designed for use in adult education courses for parents of developmentally disabled children, this manual provides basic information about major categories of disabilities and a glossary of commonly encountered terms. After an introductory overview, the manual provides information about the characteristics and etiology of five disabling…

  14. Information Technology: Tomorrow's Advantage Today.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Haag, Stephen; Keen, Peter

    This textbook is designed for a one-semester introductory course in which the goal is to give students a foundation in the basics of information technology (IT). It focuses on how the technology works, issues relating to its use and development, how it can lend personal and business advantages, and how it is creating a globally networked society.…

  15. Pashto Reader.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tegey, Habibullah; Robson, Barbara

    This reader is the basic text for a set of instructional materials in Pashto. It consists of 45 authentic passages in Pashto script, each accompanied by background information, a vocabulary list, hints for scanning, comprehension exercises, and notes for detailed rereading. An introductory section offers study suggestions for the student. The…

  16. Florida Driver Education Handbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mick, Susan H.

    This student edition contains the same basic information as the official Florida Driver Handbook, but the reading difficulty of the material has been sharply reduced. It also provides activity-oriented exercises and review tests on this material. Introductory materials include a complete listing of all activities given, some vocabulary exercises…

  17. Historic Crafts and Skills. Instructor Manual. Historic Skills Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cooper, Jim

    Designed for classroom teachers and youth leaders, this self-contained manual contains classroom tested background information, lesson plans, activities, class exercises, tests, suggested visual aids, and references for teaching basic historic crafts and skills to junior high and senior high school students. An introductory section briefly…

  18. Career Education Resource Units: Grade 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Newark School District, DE.

    The units contained in this guide are intended primarily as resource materials to assist grade 3 teachers in identifying units into which career awareness concepts can be infused and also in identifying instructional activities that correlate basic skills and career education objectives. Introductory information includes a definition of career…

  19. Career Education Resource Units: Grades 4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Newark School District, DE.

    The units contained in this guide are intended primarily as resource materials to assist grade 4 teachers in identifying units into which career awareness concepts can be infused and also in identifying instructional activities that correlate basic skills and career education objectives. Introductory information includes a definition of career…

  20. Integrating writing into an introductory environmental science curriculum: Perspectives from biology and physics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Selkin, P. A.; Cline, E. T.; Beaufort, A.

    2008-12-01

    In the University of Washington, Tacoma's Environmental Science program, we are implementing a curriculum-wide, scaffolded strategy to teach scientific writing. Writing in an introductory science course is a powerful means to make students feel part of the scientific community, an important goal in our environmental science curriculum. Writing is already an important component of the UW Tacoma environmental science program at the upper levels: our approach is designed to prepare students for the writing-intensive junior- and senior-level seminars. The approach is currently being tested in introductory biology and physics before it is incorporated in the rest of the introductory environmental science curriculum. The centerpiece of our approach is a set of research and writing assignments woven throughout the biology and physics course sequences. The assignments progress in their degree of complexity and freedom through the sequence of introductory science courses. Each assignment is supported by a number of worksheets and short written exercises designed to teach writing and critical thought skills. The worksheets are focused on skills identified both by research in science writing and the instructors' experience with student writing. Students see the assignments as a way to personalize their understanding of basic science concepts, and to think critically about ideas that interest them. We find that these assignments provide a good way to assess student comprehension of some of the more difficult ideas in the basic sciences, as well as a means to engage students with the challenging concepts of introductory science courses. Our experience designing these courses can inform efforts to integrate writing throughout a geoscience or environmental science curriculum, as opposed to on a course-by-course basis.

  1. Essentials of Risk Management. Strategic Decisions. Board Basics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sonenstein, Burton; Kumin, Laura A.

    1998-01-01

    This booklet, intended for trustees of institutions of higher education, offers some instruction on the principles of risk management. Introductory information provides a definition of risk management, which is seen as a planning and strategic function, not solely as a financial or safety assessment. Individual sections then address the following…

  2. Family and Consumer Studies 13: Fashion Analysis.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carleo, A. Susan

    A description is provided of Family and Consumer Studies 13: Fashion Analysis, an introductory course on the basic principles of fashion and clothing, giving special consideration to the impact of societal, cultural, religious, and psychological factors on clothing choices. First, general information is provided on the course, its place in the…

  3. Statistical Report. Fiscal Year 1995: September 1, 1994 - August 31, 1995.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Austin.

    This report provides statistical data on Texas public and independent higher education institutions for fiscal year 1995. An introductory section provides basic information on Texas higher education institutions, while nine major sections cover: (1) student enrollment, including 1990-94 headcount data; headcount by classification, ethnic origin,…

  4. Statistical Report. Fiscal Year 1994: September 1, 1993 - August 31, 1994.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, Austin.

    This report provides statistical data on Texas public and independent higher education institutions for fiscal year 1994. An introductory section provides basic information on Texas higher education institutions, while nine major sections cover: (1) student enrollment, including 1989-93 headcount data; headcount by classification, ethnic origin,…

  5. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-3. Pedestrian Safety, Grade 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains nine lessons on pedestrian safety for use in grade 3. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing communication methods for…

  6. Mental Retardation Programs of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, Washington, DC. Office of Mental Retardation Coordination.

    The mental retardation programs of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare are arranged and explained according to the categories of preventive services, basic and supportive services, training of personnel, research, construction, and income maintenance. Then follow eight agency reports that generally contain introductory information,…

  7. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Pedestrian Safety, Grade 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains eight lessons on pedestrian safety for use in grade 2. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing communication methods for…

  8. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Pedestrian Safety, Grades K-1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains thirteen lessons on pedestrian safety for use in kindergarten and grade 1. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing…

  9. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Passenger Safety, Grade 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains eight lessons for use in grade 2. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing communication methods for highway users,…

  10. Small Business Course for Older Americans. Student Handbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    American Association of Community and Junior Colleges, Washington, DC.

    This student handbook was designed for a course which offers people aged 55 and older guidance in starting and operating a small business. Following introductory remarks concerning small businesses, information and assignment sheets related to each of the course's basic units are presented. Course units include the following: (1) Small Business…

  11. Rhetorical Analysis as Introductory Speech: Jumpstarting Student Engagement

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Malone, Marc P.

    2012-01-01

    When students enter the basic public speaking classroom,When students enter the basic public speaking classroom, they are asked to develop an introductory speech. This assignment typically focuses on a speech of self-introduction for which there are several pedagogical underpinnings: it provides an immediate and relatively stress-free speaking…

  12. Development of a Multi-experience Approach in Introductory Soil and Vegetation Geography Courses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Limbird, Arthur

    1982-01-01

    Describes an introductory college level course in soil and vegetation which uses lecture, audiovisual tutorial, individualized instruction, field trips, films, and games. The course consists of three segments: basic concepts of soils, basic concepts of plants, and soil and vegetation concepts in a spatial context. (KC)

  13. Introducing chemical biology applications to introductory organic chemistry students using series of weekly assignments.

    PubMed

    Kanin, Maralee R; Pontrello, Jason K

    2016-01-01

    Calls to bring interdisciplinary content and examples into introductory science courses have increased, yet strategies that involve course restructuring often suffer from the need for a significant faculty commitment to motivate change. Minimizing the need for dramatic course reorganization, the structure, reactivity, and chemical biology applications of classes of biological monomers and polymers have been integrated into introductory organic chemistry courses through three series of semester-long weekly assignments that explored (a) Carbohydrates and Oligosaccharides, (b) Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins, and (c) Nucleosides, Nucleotides, and Nucleic Acids. Comparisons of unannounced pre- and post tests revealed improved understanding of a reaction introduced in the assignments, and course examinations evaluated cumulative assignment topics. Course surveys revealed that demonstrating biologically relevant applications consistently throughout the semesters enhanced student interest in the connection between basic organic chemistry content and its application to new and unfamiliar bio-related examples. Covering basic material related to these classes of molecules outside of the classroom opened lecture time to allow the instructor to further build on information developed through the weekly assignments, teaching advanced topics and applications typically not covered in an introductory organic chemistry lecture course. Assignments were implemented as homework, either with or without accompanying discussion, in both laboratory and lecture organic courses within the context of the existing course structures. © 2015 The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

  14. PROJECT SUCCESS: Marine Science. (Introductory Packet, Basic Marine Science Laboratory Techniques, Oceanographic Instruments, Individual Projects, Bibliography).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Demaray, Bryan

    Five packets comprise the marine science component of an enrichment program for gifted elementary students. Considered in the introductory section are identification (pre/post measure) procedures. Remaining packets address the following topics (subtopics in parentheses): basic marine science laboratory techniques (microscope techniques and metric…

  15. The Determination of the Natural Abundance of the Isotopes of Chlorine: An Introductory Experiment in Mass Spectrometry.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'Malley, Rebecca M.

    1982-01-01

    Describes a laboratory experiment which introduces basic principles and experimental techniques of mass spectrometry for fourth year undergraduate (B.Sc.) students. Laboratory procedures, background information, and discussion of results are provided for the experiment in which the natural isotopic abundance of chlorine is determined. (Author/JN)

  16. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Bicycle Safety, Grades K-1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains nine lessons on sidewalk vehicles and bicycles for use in kindergarten and grade 1. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing…

  17. A Curriculum Model for Teaching Telecommunications to Middle and Secondary School Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Daughenbaugh, Richard L.

    This curriculum guide is intended for use in teaching a unit on telecommunications to students with a basic understanding of computing. Introductory materials spell out the purpose of the unit--to provide an introduction to the sending and receiving of electronic information using a personal computer system and the telephone communications…

  18. THE HARD OF HEARING. PRENTICE-HALL FOUNDATIONS OF SPEECH PATHOLOGY SERIES.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    O'NEILL, JOHN J.

    BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT TESTING, DIAGNOSING, AND REHABILITATING THE HARD OF HEARING IS OFFERED IN THIS INTRODUCTORY TEXT. THE PHYSICS OF SOUND, AUDITORY THEORY, ANATOMY AND PATHOLOGY OF THE EAR, AND DIAGNOSTIC ROUTINES ARE DISCUSSED. A CHAPTER ON AURAL REHABILITATION INCLUDES AN OVERVIEW OF LIPREADING AND AUDITORY TRAINING TECHNIQUES FOR ADULTS…

  19. Map and Compass. Outdoor Living Skills Series. Instructor Manual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ludwig, Gail S.

    Designed for instructors with little or no map and compass experience, the self-contained manual contains background information, lesson plans, student handouts, and references for teaching the basic skills of map and compass use to junior high and senior high school students and youth groups. An introductory section briefly discusses the…

  20. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Bicycle Safety, Grade 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains ten lessons on bicycles for use in grade 2. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing communication methods for highway users,…

  1. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Bicycle Safety, Grade 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide for grade 3 contains seven lessons on bicycles and an appendix on conducting a bicycle rodeo. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing…

  2. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Passenger Safety, Grade 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains four lessons and an appendix of school bus safety tips for use in grade 3. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing…

  3. Arizona Traffic Safety Education, K-8. Passenger Safety, Grades K-1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mesa Public Schools, AZ.

    One in a series designed to assist Arizona elementary and junior high school teachers in developing children's traffic safety skills, this curriculum guide contains nine lessons for use in kindergarten and grade 1. Introductory information provided for the teacher includes basic highway safety concepts, stressing communication methods for highway…

  4. A Field-Based Learning Experience for Introductory Level GIS Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carlson, Tom

    2007-01-01

    This article describes a pedagogic foundation for introducing a field-based geographic information systems (GIS) experience to the GIS curriculum at the university level and uses a dual evaluation methodology to monitor student learning and satisfaction. Students learned the basics of field-based global position systems (GPS) and GIS data…

  5. Integrating Basic Skills into Vocational Teacher Education Curricula: Book 5--Challenges for the Teacher.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Love, Cathleen T.; Gloeckner, Gene W.

    This curriculum guide for vocational teacher education focuses on challenges for the teacher, and more specifically, on what should be done to help teachers accept change as a constant in curricula. Introductory materials include a project overview, mission and goals of the curriculum, belief statements, curriculum format, information on…

  6. Market Analysis. What Is It? How Does It Fit into Comprehensive Institutional Planning?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Groff, Warren

    The basic principles of market analysis are examined in this paper especially as they relate to institutional planning. Introductory material presents background information, including: (1) a description of two projects undertaken to implement modern management techniques at small colleges; (2) an examination of three marketing philosophies; and…

  7. An Informed Approach to Improving Quantitative Literacy and Mitigating Math Anxiety in Undergraduates Through Introductory Science Courses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Follette, K.; McCarthy, D.

    2012-08-01

    Current trends in the teaching of high school and college science avoid numerical engagement because nearly all students lack basic arithmetic skills and experience anxiety when encountering numbers. Nevertheless, such skills are essential to science and vital to becoming savvy consumers, citizens capable of recognizing pseudoscience, and discerning interpreters of statistics in ever-present polls, studies, and surveys in which our society is awash. Can a general-education collegiate course motivate students to value numeracy and to improve their quantitative skills in what may well be their final opportunity in formal education? We present a tool to assess whether skills in numeracy/quantitative literacy can be fostered and improved in college students through the vehicle of non-major introductory courses in astronomy. Initial classroom applications define the magnitude of this problem and indicate that significant improvements are possible. Based on these initial results we offer this tool online and hope to collaborate with other educators, both formal and informal, to develop effective mechanisms for encouraging all students to value and improve their skills in basic numeracy.

  8. Framework and Implementation for Improving Physics Essential Skills via Computer-Based Practice: Vector Math

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mikula, Brendon D.; Heckler, Andrew F.

    2017-01-01

    We propose a framework for improving accuracy, fluency, and retention of basic skills essential for solving problems relevant to STEM introductory courses, and implement the framework for the case of basic vector math skills over several semesters in an introductory physics course. Using an iterative development process, the framework begins with…

  9. From Research to Practice: Basic Mathematics Skills and Success in Introductory Statistics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lunsford, M. Leigh; Poplin, Phillip

    2011-01-01

    Based on previous research of Johnson and Kuennen (2006), we conducted a study to determine factors that would possibly predict student success in an introductory statistics course. Our results were similar to Johnson and Kuennen in that we found students' basic mathematical skills, as measured on a test created by Johnson and Kuennen, were a…

  10. The Introductory Sociology Survey

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Best, Joel

    1977-01-01

    The Introductory Sociology Survey (ISS) is designed to teach introductory students basic skills in developing causal arguments and in using a computerized statistical package to analyze survey data. Students are given codebooks for survey data and asked to write a brief paper predicting the relationship between at least two variables. (Author)

  11. Fish: A New Computer Program for Friendly Introductory Statistics Help

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brooks, Gordon P.; Raffle, Holly

    2005-01-01

    All introductory statistics students must master certain basic descriptive statistics, including means, standard deviations and correlations. Students must also gain insight into such complex concepts as the central limit theorem and standard error. This article introduces and describes the Friendly Introductory Statistics Help (FISH) computer…

  12. A Diagnostic Assessment for Introductory Molecular and Cell Biology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shi, Jia; Wood, William B.; Martin, Jennifer M.; Guild, Nancy A.; Vicens, Quentin; Knight, Jennifer K.

    2010-01-01

    We have developed and validated a tool for assessing understanding of a selection of fundamental concepts and basic knowledge in undergraduate introductory molecular and cell biology, focusing on areas in which students often have misconceptions. This multiple-choice Introductory Molecular and Cell Biology Assessment (IMCA) instrument is designed…

  13. Full Flip, Half Flip and No Flip: Evaluation of Flipping an Introductory Programming Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fryling, Meg; Yoder, Robert; Breimer, Eric

    2016-01-01

    While some research has suggested that video lectures are just as effective as in-person lectures to convey basic information to students, not everyone agrees that the flipped classroom model is an effective way of educating students. This research explores traditional, semi-flipped and fully-flipped classroom models by comparing three sections of…

  14. Assessing the Previous Economic Knowledge of Beginning Students in Germany: Implications for Teaching Economics in Basic Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Happ, Roland; Förster, Manuel; Zlatkin-Troitschanskaia, Olga; Carstensen, Vivian

    2016-01-01

    Study-related prior knowledge plays a decisive role in business and economics degree courses. Prior knowledge has a significant influence on knowledge acquisition in higher education, and teachers need information on it to plan their introductory courses accordingly. Very few studies have been conducted of first-year students' prior economic…

  15. Brief overview of subterranean termite issues in the southern U.S.

    Treesearch

    Thomas G. Shelton; Terence L. Wagner

    2005-01-01

    This paper was given as an introductory presentation to the Formosan subterranean termite technical session at the 2005 American Wood Preserver's Association annual meeting in New Orleans. It provides basic information on current subterranean termite control issues, with particular attention to recent and potential future changes at the Federal and State levels in...

  16. The Education Almanac, 1987-1988. Facts and Figures about Our Nation's System of Education. Third Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Goodman, Leroy V., Ed.

    This is the third edition of the Education Almanac, an assemblage of statistics, facts, commentary, and basic background information about the conduct of schools in the United States. Features of this variegated volume include an introductory section on "Education's Newsiest Developments," followed by some vital educational statistics, a set of…

  17. Integrating Sociological Research into Large Introductory Courses: Learning Content and Increasing Quantitative Literacy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Atkinson, Maxine P.; Czaja, Ronald F.; Brewster, Zachary B.

    2006-01-01

    Sociologists can make meaningful contributions to quantitative literacy by teaching sociological research skills in sociology classes, including introductory courses. We report on the effectiveness of requiring a research module in a large introductory class. The module is designed to teach both basic research skills and to increase awareness of…

  18. The Grasp of Physics Concepts of Motion: Identifying Particular Patterns in Students' Thinking

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Obaidat, Ihab; Malkawi, Ehab

    2009-01-01

    We have investigated the grasp of some of the basic concepts of motion by students taking the introductory physics course in Mechanics at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). We have developed a short research-based multiple-choice test where we were able to extract some information about the state of knowledge of the students. In general, the…

  19. Probing the Natural World, Level III, Student Guide: What's Up? Intermediate Science Curriculum Study.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bonar, John R., Ed.; Hathway, James A., Ed.

    This is the student's text of one unit of the Intermediate Science Curriculum Study (ISCS) for level III students (grade 9). The chapters contain basic information about rockets, space, and principles of physics, as well as activities related to the subject and optional excursions. A section of introductory notes to the student discusses how the…

  20. The Scientific Potential of X-ray Polarimetry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fabian, Andrew C.

    2016-04-01

    X-ray Polarimetry is a rich, untapped source of information on the geometry and/or magnetic structure of a wide range of cosmic object from accreting black holes to jets and neutron stars. This introductory overview will outline the basics of the production of polarized X-ray emission and emphasise its importance in our quest to understand how compact objects work.

  1. The Solar-Terrestrial Environment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hargreaves, John Keith

    1995-05-01

    The book begins with three introductory chapters that provide some basic physics and explain the principles of physical investigation. The principal material contained in the main part of the book covers the neutral and ionized upper atmosphere, the magnetosphere, and structures, dynamics, disturbances, and irregularities. The concluding chapter deals with technological applications. The account is introductory, at a level suitable for readers with a basic background in engineering or physics. The intent is to present basic concepts, and for that reason, the mathematical treatment is not complex. SI units are given throughout, with helpful notes on cgs units where these are likely to be encountered in the research literature. This book is suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate students who are taking introductory courses on upper atmospheric, ionospheric, or magnetospheric physics. This is a successor to The Upper Atmosphere and Solar-Terrestrial Relations, published in 1979.

  2. Using a "Primer Unit" in an Introductory Biology Course: "A Soft Landing"

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Marbach-Ad, Gili; Ribke, Melina; Gershoni, Jonathan M.

    2006-01-01

    This study aimed to facilitate students' entrance to an introductory cell biology course for biology majors. The most prominent difficulty in this introductory course, is students' poor background-knowledge, such as a lack of understanding of very basic concepts and terms, and the huge differences in students' background knowledge. In order to…

  3. Total energy management for nursing homes and other long-term care institutions

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Not Available

    1977-01-01

    The purpose of this publication is to provide the basic instruction needed to implement the most effective form of energy conservation--Total Energy Management, or TEM--in your long-term care facility. The effort required is worthwhile for many different reasons: TEM is self-paying; TEM promotes energy conservation without negative impact on health care services; and energy costs will continue to escalate. Following the introductory chapter, chapters are titled: Understanding Energy Consumption; Initiating a Total Energy Management Program; Developing Energy Consumption Data; Conducting the Facility Survey; Developing and Implementing the Basic Plan; Communication and Motivation; Monitoring Your Program and Keeping It Effective; andmore » Guidelines for Energy Conservation. Two appendices furnish information on building information for TEM and sources of information for energy management. (MCW)« less

  4. Railroad Classification Yard Technology : An Introductory Analysis of Functions and Operations

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1975-05-01

    A review of the basic operating characteristics and functions of railroad classification yards is presented. Introductory descriptions of terms, concepts, and problems of railroad operations involving classification yards are included in an attempt t...

  5. Mining Careers. Instructor's Manual and Student's Basic Course of Study. Recommended Courses for Entry Level Miner, General Inside Laborer, Timber Framer, Face Worker.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Admiral Peary Area Vocational-Technical School, Ebensburg, PA.

    Guides for organizing and individualizing three courses of study for job training in the mining careers of entry level miner, general inside laborer/timber framer, and faceman are presented in this manual. Introductory information includes (1) suggestions for utilizing, modifying, or customizing materials (task sheets) in the manual to suit…

  6. Results of Studying Astronomy Students’ Science Literacy, Quantitative Literacy, and Information Literacy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Buxner, Sanlyn; Impey, Chris David; Follette, Katherine B.; Dokter, Erin F.; McCarthy, Don; Vezino, Beau; Formanek, Martin; Romine, James M.; Brock, Laci; Neiberding, Megan; Prather, Edward E.

    2017-01-01

    Introductory astronomy courses often serve as terminal science courses for non-science majors and present an opportunity to assess non future scientists’ attitudes towards science as well as basic scientific knowledge and scientific analysis skills that may remain unchanged after college. Through a series of studies, we have been able to evaluate students’ basic science knowledge, attitudes towards science, quantitative literacy, and informational literacy. In the Fall of 2015, we conducted a case study of a single class administering all relevant surveys to an undergraduate class of 20 students. We will present our analysis of trends of each of these studies as well as the comparison case study. In general we have found that students basic scientific knowledge has remained stable over the past quarter century. In all of our studies, there is a strong relationship between student attitudes and their science and quantitative knowledge and skills. Additionally, students’ information literacy is strongly connected to their attitudes and basic scientific knowledge. We are currently expanding these studies to include new audiences and will discuss the implications of our findings for instructors.

  7. Commentary: Prerequisite Knowledge

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taylor, Ann T. S.

    2013-01-01

    Most biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, and molecular biology classes have extensive prerequisite or co-requisite requirements, often including introductory chemistry, introductory biology, and organic chemistry coursework. But what is the function of these prerequisites? While it seems logical that a basic understanding of biological and…

  8. Toward using games to teach fundamental computer science concepts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Edgington, Jeffrey Michael

    Video and computer games have become an important area of study in the field of education. Games have been designed to teach mathematics, physics, raise social awareness, teach history and geography, and train soldiers in the military. Recent work has created computer games for teaching computer programming and understanding basic algorithms. We present an investigation where computer games are used to teach two fundamental computer science concepts: boolean expressions and recursion. The games are intended to teach the concepts and not how to implement them in a programming language. For this investigation, two computer games were created. One is designed to teach basic boolean expressions and operators and the other to teach fundamental concepts of recursion. We describe the design and implementation of both games. We evaluate the effectiveness of these games using before and after surveys. The surveys were designed to ascertain basic understanding, attitudes and beliefs regarding the concepts. The boolean game was evaluated with local high school students and students in a college level introductory computer science course. The recursion game was evaluated with students in a college level introductory computer science course. We present the analysis of the collected survey information for both games. This analysis shows a significant positive change in student attitude towards recursion and modest gains in student learning outcomes for both topics.

  9. Attracting Future Geographers: The Introductory Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Trindell, Roger

    The organization and content of an introductory human geography course instituted at Mansfield State University (Pennsylvania) to interest students in a geography major and possible geography career is described. Organized around basic geography "co-traditions," the course begins by examining geography's origin, purpose, and relation to other…

  10. The Metamorphosis of an Introduction to Computer Science.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ben-Jacob, Marion G.

    1997-01-01

    Introductory courses in computer science at colleges and universities have undergone significant changes in 20 years. This article provides an overview of the history of introductory computer science (FORTRAN, ANSI flowchart symbols, BASIC, data processing concepts, and PASCAL) and its future (robotics and C++). (PEN)

  11. Diesel Technology: Introduction. Teacher Edition [and] Student Edition. Second Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Joerschke, John D.; Eichhorn, Lane

    This complete teacher edition of a diesel technology course consists of introductory pages, teacher pages, and the student edition. The introductory pages provide these tools: training and competency profile; National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation Crosswalk; instructional/task analysis; basic skills icons and classifications; basic…

  12. Astrophysics: An Integrative Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gutsche, Graham D.

    1975-01-01

    Describes a one semester course in introductory stellar astrophysics at the advanced undergraduate level. The course aims to integrate all previously learned physics by applying it to the study of stars. After a brief introductory section on basic astronomical measurements, the main topics covered are stellar atmospheres, stellar structure, and…

  13. Personnel Management.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Naval Personnel Program Support Activity, Washington, DC.

    The document serves as a basic text for the indoctrination of all naval officers and as an introductory text for the officer who specializes in personnel administration or manpower management. Chapter 1 contains an introductory summary of the various functions of naval personnel administration and manpower management and describes the processes of…

  14. DOE Fundamentals Handbook: Mathematics, Volume 1

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Not Available

    1992-06-01

    The Mathematics Fundamentals Handbook was developed to assist nuclear facility operating contractors provide operators, maintenance personnel, and the technical staff with the necessary fundamentals training to ensure a basic understanding of mathematics and its application to facility operation. The handbook includes a review of introductory mathematics and the concepts and functional use of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. Word problems, equations, calculations, and practical exercises that require the use of each of the mathematical concepts are also presented. This information will provide personnel with a foundation for understanding and performing basic mathematical calculations that are associated with various DOE nuclearmore » facility operations.« less

  15. DOE Fundamentals Handbook: Mathematics, Volume 2

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Not Available

    1992-06-01

    The Mathematics Fundamentals Handbook was developed to assist nuclear facility operating contractors provide operators, maintenance personnel, and the technical staff with the necessary fundamentals training to ensure a basic understanding of mathematics and its application to facility operation. The handbook includes a review of introductory mathematics and the concepts and functional use of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. Word problems, equations, calculations, and practical exercises that require the use of each of the mathematical concepts are also presented. This information will provide personnel with a foundation for understanding and performing basic mathematical calculations that are associated with various DOE nuclearmore » facility operations.« less

  16. 29 CFR 548.300 - Introductory statement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... AUTHORIZATION OF ESTABLISHED BASIC RATES FOR COMPUTING OVERTIME PAY Interpretations Authorized Basic Rates § 548... has determined that they are substantially equivalent to the straight-time average hourly earnings of...

  17. 29 CFR 548.300 - Introductory statement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... AUTHORIZATION OF ESTABLISHED BASIC RATES FOR COMPUTING OVERTIME PAY Interpretations Authorized Basic Rates § 548... has determined that they are substantially equivalent to the straight-time average hourly earnings of...

  18. Cloning, Stem Cells, and the Current National Debate: Incorporating Ethics into a Large Introductory Biology Course

    PubMed Central

    2002-01-01

    Discussing the ethical issues involved in topics such as cloning and stem cell research in a large introductory biology course is often difficult. Teachers may be wary of presenting material biased by personal beliefs, and students often feel inhibited speaking about moral issues in a large group. Yet, to ignore what is happening “out there” beyond the textbooks and lab work is to do a disservice to students. This essay describes a semester-long project in which upperclass students presented some of the most complex and controversial ideas imaginable to introductory students by staging a mock debate and acting as members of the then newly appointed President's Council on Bioethics. Because the upperclass students were presenting the ideas of real people who play an important role in shaping national policy, no student's personal beliefs were put on the line, and many ideas were articulated. The introductory audience could accept or reject what they were hearing and learn information important for making up their own minds on these issues. This project is presented as an example of how current events can be used to put basic cell biology into context and of how exciting it can be when students teach students. PMID:12669102

  19. A Cost-Effective Two-Part Experiment for Teaching Introductory Organic Chemistry Techniques

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sadek, Christopher M.; Brown, Brenna A.; Wan, Hayley

    2011-01-01

    This two-part laboratory experiment is designed to be a cost-effective method for teaching basic organic laboratory techniques (recrystallization, thin-layer chromatography, column chromatography, vacuum filtration, and melting point determination) to large classes of introductory organic chemistry students. Students are exposed to different…

  20. Green Fluorescent Protein-Focused Bioinformatics Laboratory Experiment Suitable for Undergraduates in Biochemistry Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rowe, Laura

    2017-01-01

    An introductory bioinformatics laboratory experiment focused on protein analysis has been developed that is suitable for undergraduate students in introductory biochemistry courses. The laboratory experiment is designed to be potentially used as a "stand-alone" activity in which students are introduced to basic bioinformatics tools and…

  1. A Self-Paced Introductory Programming Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gill, T. Grandon; Holton, Carolyn F.

    2006-01-01

    In this paper, a required introductory programming course being taught to MIS undergraduates using the C++ programming language is described. Two factors make the objectives of the course--which are to provide students with an exposure to the logical organization of the computer in addition to teaching them basic programming logic--particularly…

  2. Enhancing the Skill-Building Phase of Introductory Organic Chemistry Lab through a Reflective Peer Review Structure

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pontrello, Jason K.

    2016-01-01

    Introductory organic laboratory courses frequently begin with a set of activities built around developing basic experimental skills and techniques, often with guided-inquiry components. A sequence of skill-based activities is described to promote reflection, analysis of, and interpersonal communication around science. A multistage process was used…

  3. Software-Based Scoring and Sound Design: An Introductory Guide for Music Technology Instruction

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Walzer, Daniel A.

    2016-01-01

    This article explores the creative function of virtual instruments, sequencers, loops, and software-based synthesizers to introduce basic scoring and sound design concepts for visual media in an introductory music technology course. Using digital audio workstations with user-focused and configurable options, novice composers can hone a broad range…

  4. Vacuum Energy and Inflation: 1. A Liter of Vacuum Energy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Huggins, Elisha

    2013-01-01

    In the popular press, diagrams showing the evolution of the universe begin with a great jump in size labeled "inflation." Can we explain the basic ideas behind inflation to our students who have taken our introductory physics course? Probably not. In our standard introductory physics courses, even those with special relativity, something…

  5. What's Love Got to Do with It? Rethinking Common Sense Assumptions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Trachman, Matthew; Bluestone, Cheryl

    2005-01-01

    One of the most basic tasks in introductory social science classes is to get students to reexamine their common sense assumptions concerning human behavior. This article introduces a shared assignment developed for a learning community that paired an introductory sociology and psychology class. The assignment challenges students to rethink the…

  6. Basic Math Skills and Performance in an Introductory Statistics Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Marianne; Kuennen, Eric

    2006-01-01

    We identify the student characteristics most associated with success in an introductory business statistics class, placing special focus on the relationship between student math skills and course performance, as measured by student grade in the course. To determine which math skills are important for student success, we examine (1) whether the…

  7. Current Practices in Teaching Introductory Epidemiology: How We Got Here, Where to Go

    PubMed Central

    Keyes, Katherine M.; Galea, Sandro

    2014-01-01

    The number of students and disciplines requiring basic instruction in epidemiologic methods is growing. As a field, we now have a lexicon of epidemiologic terminology and particular methods that have developed and become canonical through the historical development of the field. Yet, many of our basic concepts remain elusive to some students, particularly those not pursuing a career in epidemiology. Further, disagreement and redundancy across basic terms limit their utility in teaching epidemiology. Many approaches to teaching epidemiology generally start with labeling key concepts and then move on to explain them. We submit that an approach grounded not in labels but in foundational concepts may offer a useful adjunct to introductory epidemiology education. We propose 7 foundational steps in conducting an epidemiologic study and provide examples of how these steps can be operationalized, using simple graphics that articulate how populations are defined, samples are selected, and individuals are followed to count cases. A reorganization of introductory epidemiology around core first principles may be an effective way forward for educating the next generation of public health scientists. PMID:25190677

  8. A basic recursion concept inventory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hamouda, Sally; Edwards, Stephen H.; Elmongui, Hicham G.; Ernst, Jeremy V.; Shaffer, Clifford A.

    2017-04-01

    Recursion is both an important and a difficult topic for introductory Computer Science students. Students often develop misconceptions about the topic that need to be diagnosed and corrected. In this paper, we report on our initial attempts to develop a concept inventory that measures student misconceptions on basic recursion topics. We present a collection of misconceptions and difficulties encountered by students when learning introductory recursion as presented in a typical CS2 course. Based on this collection, a draft concept inventory in the form of a series of questions was developed and evaluated, with the question rubric tagged to the list of misconceptions and difficulties.

  9. Radiological Dispersion Devices and Basic Radiation Science

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bevelacqua, Joseph John

    2010-01-01

    Introductory physics courses present the basic concepts of radioactivity and an overview of nuclear physics that emphasizes the basic decay relationship and the various types of emitted radiation. Although this presentation provides insight into radiological science, it often fails to interest students to explore these concepts in a more rigorous…

  10. Basic Skills Support in Business and Industry.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Byatt, Janet; Davies, Karen

    This guide is designed as a tool for English and Welsh businesses wanting to provide basic skills training for their employees. It provides practical solutions to the problems of identifying employees' basic skills needs and selecting the best model of training delivery to address identified training needs. The introductory section discusses basic…

  11. The Effect of Animations within PowerPoint Presentations on Learning Introductory Astronomy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Miller, Scott T.; James, C. Renee

    2011-01-01

    We present results of a two-semester study to determine whether the inclusion of basic animation techniques in PowerPoint presentations provides an additional learning aid, inhibits learning, or has no effect on student learning for students in an introductory astronomy course. We found that (1) students perceive that animated slides are…

  12. Using Google Earth and Satellite Imagery to Foster Place-Based Teaching in an Introductory Physical Geology Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Monet, Julie; Greene, Todd

    2012-01-01

    Students in an introductory physical geology course often have difficulty making connections between basic course topics and assembling key concepts (beyond textbook examples) to interpret how geologic processes shape the characteristics of the local and regional natural environment. As an approach to address these issues, we designed and…

  13. Basic Math Skills and Performance in an Introductory Economics Class

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ballard, Charles L.; Johnson, Marianne F.

    2004-01-01

    The authors measure math skills with a broader set of explanatory variables than have been used in previous studies. To identify what math skills are important for student success in introductory microeconomics, they examine (1) the student's score on the mathematics portion of the ACT Assessment Test, (2) whether the student has taken calculus,…

  14. Seinfeld and Economics: How to Achieve the Revised Bloom's Taxonomy in an Introductory Economics Class

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Deal, John; Hegde, S. Aaron

    2013-01-01

    This paper presents an innovative teaching technique, the utilization of a popular sitcom to teach an introductory economics course. Using clips from the television show "Seinfeld," instructors can present the oft-perceived difficult, yet basic, economic concepts in an amenable manner, which also enables the achieving of higher levels of…

  15. Instructional Strategies for Online Introductory College Physics Based on Learning Styles

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ekwue, Eleazer U.

    2013-01-01

    The practical nature of physics and its reliance on mathematical presentations and problem solving pose a challenge toward presentation of the course in an online environment for effective learning experience. Most first-time introductory college physics students fail to grasp the basic concepts of the course and the problem solving skills if the…

  16. Students' Pre-Knowledge as a Guideline in the Teaching of Introductory Thermal Physics at University

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Leinonen, Risto; Rasanen, Esa; Asikainen, Mervi; Hirvonen, Pekka E.

    2009-01-01

    This study concentrates on analysing university students' pre-knowledge of thermal physics. The students' understanding of the basic concepts and of the adiabatic compression of an ideal gas was studied at the start of an introductory level course. A total of 48 students participated in a paper-and-pencil test, and analysis of the responses…

  17. Experimental Course Development in Introductory Economics at Indiana University. The Journal of Economic Education, Special Issue No. 4, Fall 1975.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Saunders, Phillip

    A two part experimental introductory college economics course is described. Data on the combination macroeconomics and microeconomics course have been collected over eight consecutive terms and are presented in nine chapters. Chapter I describes course goals as stimulation of student interest, teaching a few basic economic principles, helping…

  18. Using PARSEL Modules to Contextualizing the States-of-Matter Approach (SOMA) to Introductory Chemistry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tsaparlis, Georgios

    2008-01-01

    SOMA (States-Of-Matter Approach) is an introductory chemistry program for all students in the tenth or eleventh grade (age 16-17), which introduces chemistry through the separate study of the three states of matter. SOMA is basically a formalistic approach. In this paper, we discuss the use of PARSEL modules in providing a teaching approach to…

  19. Just-in-Time Teaching in Sociology or How I Convinced My Students to Actually Read the Assignment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Howard, Jay R.

    2004-01-01

    In the process of collecting assessment data in the author's introductory sociology course, he made a startling and disappointing discovery. For the most part, students simply were not bothering to read the basics version of the introductory survey textbook that he assigned. This discovery presented him with two related challenges. First, he had…

  20. Four-Year Turfgrass Management Programs in the United States: II. Organization and Content of Introductory Turfgrass Management Courses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Karnok, Keith J.; And Others

    1993-01-01

    A survey of 32 land-grant institutions was conducted to determine format, topical content, and teaching methods of introductory turfgrass management courses of 4-year turfgrass management programs in the United States. Required courses included a basic soils class and a course in biology or botany, usually transmitted by the lecture method. (MDH)

  1. Impacting Society through Astronomy Undergraduate Courses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schleigh, Sharon

    2015-04-01

    A high percentage of non-science majors enroll in undergraduate, introductory astronomy courses across the country. The perception of the astronomy course as being easier than the ``hard sciences'' and the idea that the course will focus on ``pretty pictures'', influences the interests of the non-science majors. Often the students that enroll in these courses will not take other science courses, resulting in the only opportunity to teach college students about basic scientific concepts that impact their lives. Vast misconceptions about the nature of science, the role of science and scientists in society, and social issues embedded in scientific information, impact the decisions that individuals make about every day events. In turn, these decisions influence the policies that construct our society. This talk will provide an overview of the common misconceptions and discuss how they impact our society as a whole. The research presented provides evidence of the impact that introductory college astronomy courses have on changing these everyday misconceptions and influencing non-science majors' ideas about science in society. The research suggests that introductory courses designed for non-science majors are extremely important in impacting our society, and begs for a stronger understanding and implementation of best practices for teaching and learning in the college classroom environment.

  2. Revealing representational content with pattern-information fMRI--an introductory guide.

    PubMed

    Mur, Marieke; Bandettini, Peter A; Kriegeskorte, Nikolaus

    2009-03-01

    Conventional statistical analysis methods for functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data are very successful at detecting brain regions that are activated as a whole during specific mental activities. The overall activation of a region is usually taken to indicate involvement of the region in the task. However, such activation analysis does not consider the multivoxel patterns of activity within a brain region. These patterns of activity, which are thought to reflect neuronal population codes, can be investigated by pattern-information analysis. In this framework, a region's multivariate pattern information is taken to indicate representational content. This tutorial introduction motivates pattern-information analysis, explains its underlying assumptions, introduces the most widespread methods in an intuitive way, and outlines the basic sequence of analysis steps.

  3. Two Simple Macroeconomic Simulations and the Great Depression. Instructor's Notes [and] A Student Guide [and] Basic Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schenk, Robert E.

    Intended for use with college students in introductory macroeconomics or American economic history courses, these two computer simulations of two basic macroeconomic models--a simple Keynesian-type model and a quantity-theory-of-money model--present largely incompatible explanations of the Great Depression. Written in Basic, the simulations are…

  4. Competency-Based Adult Education Classroom Management Guide for Adult Basic Education Curriculum (Level II, 5-8).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Singer, Elizabeth

    This Competency-Based Adult Basic Education (CBABE) Classroom Management Guide was developed to aid the Adult Basic Education (ABE) facilitator in implementing a model CBABE Level 5-8 curriculum. First, introductory material provides background on the CBABE project at Brevard Community College (Florida) and the rationale for the development of the…

  5. An Integrated Visualization and Basic Molecular Modeling Laboratory for First-Year Undergraduate Medicinal Chemistry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hayes, Joseph M.

    2014-01-01

    A 3D model visualization and basic molecular modeling laboratory suitable for first-year undergraduates studying introductory medicinal chemistry is presented. The 2 h practical is embedded within a series of lectures on drug design, target-drug interactions, enzymes, receptors, nucleic acids, and basic pharmacokinetics. Serving as a teaching aid…

  6. Report on the CDE Examination

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Haga, Enoch J.

    1971-01-01

    The Certificate in Data Education (Basic) examination is designed to certify that successful candidates are academically proficient in those principles and concepts of automation, computing, and data processing (including social and user implications) which are usually taught in basic introductory courses at the college or university level. (CK)

  7. Engineering mechanics: statics and dynamics. [Textbook

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sandor, B.I.

    1983-01-01

    The purpose of this textbook is to provide engineering students with basic learning material about statics and dynamics which are fundamental engineering subjects. The chapters contain information on: an introduction to engineering mechanics; forces on particles, rigid bodies, and structures; kinetics of particles, particle systems, and rigid bodies in motion; kinematics; mechanical vibrations; and friction, work, moments of inertia, and potential energy. Each chapter contains introductory material, the development of the essential equations, worked-out example problems, homework problems, and, finally, summaries of the essential methods and equations, graphically illustrated where appropriate. (LCL)

  8. Conceptual Mobility and Entrenchment in Introductory Geoscience Courses: New Questions Regarding Physics' and Chemistry's Role in Learning Earth Science Concepts

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Anderson, Steven W.; Libarkin, Julie C.

    2016-01-01

    Nationwide pre- and posttesting of introductory courses with the Geoscience Concept Inventory (GCI) shows little gain for many of its questions. Analysis of more than 3,500 tests shows that 22 of the 73 GCI questions had gains of <0.03, and nearly half of these focused on basic physics and chemistry. We also discovered through an assessment of…

  9. Current practices in teaching introductory epidemiology: how we got here, where to go.

    PubMed

    Keyes, Katherine M; Galea, Sandro

    2014-10-01

    The number of students and disciplines requiring basic instruction in epidemiologic methods is growing. As a field, we now have a lexicon of epidemiologic terminology and particular methods that have developed and become canonical through the historical development of the field. Yet, many of our basic concepts remain elusive to some students, particularly those not pursuing a career in epidemiology. Further, disagreement and redundancy across basic terms limit their utility in teaching epidemiology. Many approaches to teaching epidemiology generally start with labeling key concepts and then move on to explain them. We submit that an approach grounded not in labels but in foundational concepts may offer a useful adjunct to introductory epidemiology education. We propose 7 foundational steps in conducting an epidemiologic study and provide examples of how these steps can be operationalized, using simple graphics that articulate how populations are defined, samples are selected, and individuals are followed to count cases. A reorganization of introductory epidemiology around core first principles may be an effective way forward for educating the next generation of public health scientists. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  10. Framework and implementation for improving physics essential skills via computer-based practice: Vector math

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mikula, Brendon D.; Heckler, Andrew F.

    2017-06-01

    We propose a framework for improving accuracy, fluency, and retention of basic skills essential for solving problems relevant to STEM introductory courses, and implement the framework for the case of basic vector math skills over several semesters in an introductory physics course. Using an iterative development process, the framework begins with a careful identification of target skills and the study of specific student difficulties with these skills. It then employs computer-based instruction, immediate feedback, mastery grading, and well-researched principles from cognitive psychology such as interleaved training sequences and distributed practice. We implemented this with more than 1500 students over 2 semesters. Students completed the mastery practice for an average of about 13 min /week , for a total of about 2-3 h for the whole semester. Results reveal large (>1 SD ) pretest to post-test gains in accuracy in vector skills, even compared to a control group, and these gains were retained at least 2 months after practice. We also find evidence of improved fluency, student satisfaction, and that awarding regular course credit results in higher participation and higher learning gains than awarding extra credit. In all, we find that simple computer-based mastery practice is an effective and efficient way to improve a set of basic and essential skills for introductory physics.

  11. Basic Laboratory Skills for Water and Wastewater Analysis. Report No. 125.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Clark, Douglas W.

    Designed for individuals wanting to acquire an introductory knowledge of basic skills necessary to function in a water or wastewater laboratory, this handbook emphasizes current use of routine equipment and proper procedures. Explanations and illustrations focus on underlying techniques and principles rather than processes for conducting specific…

  12. Bioinstrumentation: Tools for Understanding Life.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wandersee, James H., Ed.; And Others

    This book was written to help introductory biology teachers gain a basic understanding of contemporary bioinstrumentation and the uses to which it is put in the laboratory. It includes topics that are most basic to understanding the nature of biology. The book is divided into five sections: (1) "Separation and Identification" that includes…

  13. Basic Library Skills: A Self-Paced Workbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tierney, Judith

    This self-paced workbook is designed to introduce college students to the resources and facilities of the library and to providing the knowledge and skills necessary to do basic library research. Two introductory chapters include a library-specific tour with floor plans (the D. Leonard Corgan Library, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania) and information…

  14. Computer Programming: BASIC.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fisher, Patience; And Others

    This guide was prepared to help teachers of the Lincoln Public School's introductory computer programming course in BASIC to make the necessary adjustments for changes made in the course since the purchase of microcomputers and such peripheral devices as television monitors and disk drives, and the addition of graphics. Intended to teach a…

  15. A Model for Teaching Basic Skills in a Community College Setting.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brantley, Jerry; And Others

    The Basic Skills Program described in this report was developed by Macomb County Community College (MCCC) as a semester-long pre-vocational program for Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) students. Following introductory material, Part I presents a general review of postsecondary developmental education programs for…

  16. The detection and analysis of point processes in biological signals

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Anderson, D. J.; Correia, M. J.

    1977-01-01

    A pragmatic approach to the detection and analysis of discrete events in biomedical signals is taken. Examples from both clinical and basic research are provided. Introductory sections discuss not only discrete events which are easily extracted from recordings by conventional threshold detectors but also events embedded in other information carrying signals. The primary considerations are factors governing event-time resolution and the effects limits to this resolution have on the subsequent analysis of the underlying process. The analysis portion describes tests for qualifying the records as stationary point processes and procedures for providing meaningful information about the biological signals under investigation. All of these procedures are designed to be implemented on laboratory computers of modest computational capacity.

  17. Understanding the "Crisis" in Basic Skills: Framing the Issues in Community Colleges. Basic Skills Instruction in California Community Colleges. Working Paper, Number 1

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Grubb, W. Norton; Boner, Elizabeth; Frankel, Kate; Parker, Lynette; Patterson, David; Gabriner, Robert; Hope, Laura; Schiorring, Eva; Smith, Bruce; Taylor, Richard; Walton, Ian; Wilson, Smokey

    2011-01-01

    While increases in remedial education (or basic skills instruction or developmental education) have taken place at several levels of the education and training system, there are reasons for thinking that the issue is particularly acute in community colleges. This introductory working paper divides the problem into two. The first is the high…

  18. Basic Substantive Law for Paralegals: Contracts, Torts, and Due Process.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Marcin, Raymond B.

    Part of the paralegal, or legal assistant, training materials prepared by the National Paralegal Institution under a Federal grant, the text comprises an overview of the basic legal concepts usually found in introductory law courses concerning contracts, torts, and the due process area of constitutional law. Part 1, Contracts, covers: definition,…

  19. Introduction to Insulation. Introduction to Construction Series. Instructor Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Associated General Contractors of America, Washington, DC.

    This module on introductory insulation is one of a series of modules designed to teach basic skills necessary for entry-level employment in this field. The instructor's guide contains three instructional units that cover the following topics: (1) insulation materials; (2) insulation tools; and (3) insulation layout and basic skills. Each…

  20. The Risks and Opportunities Associated with Weak Arithmatic Skills of Accounting Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kerr, Stephen; Krull, George

    2017-01-01

    This paper explored the authors' concerns about students enrolled in their introductory accounting course. Anecdotal evidence suggested that students struggle with basic arithmetic concepts that underlie basic business transactions even though their math placement and ACT scores are high. A survey of 125 students in a first accounting course was…

  1. Fundamentals of Welding. Teacher Edition [and] Student Edition [and] Student Workbook. Second Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fortney, Clarence; Gregory, Mike; New, Larry

    Teacher and student editions and a student workbook for fundamentals of welding comprise the first of six in a series of competency-based instructional materials for welding programs. Introductory pages in the teacher edition are training and competency profile, instructional/task analysis, basic skills icons and classifications, basic skills…

  2. 29 CFR 780.803 - Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... cotton. 780.803 Section 780.803 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued) WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION... FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT Employment in Ginning of Cotton and Processing of Sugar Beets, Sugar-Beet... Section 13(b)(15) Introductory § 780.803 Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton...

  3. 29 CFR 780.803 - Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... cotton. 780.803 Section 780.803 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued) WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION... FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT Employment in Ginning of Cotton and Processing of Sugar Beets, Sugar-Beet... Section 13(b)(15) Introductory § 780.803 Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton...

  4. 29 CFR 780.803 - Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... cotton. 780.803 Section 780.803 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued) WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION... FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT Employment in Ginning of Cotton and Processing of Sugar Beets, Sugar-Beet... Section 13(b)(15) Introductory § 780.803 Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton...

  5. 29 CFR 780.803 - Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... cotton. 780.803 Section 780.803 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued) WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION... FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT Employment in Ginning of Cotton and Processing of Sugar Beets, Sugar-Beet... Section 13(b)(15) Introductory § 780.803 Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton...

  6. 29 CFR 780.803 - Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... cotton. 780.803 Section 780.803 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued) WAGE AND HOUR DIVISION... FAIR LABOR STANDARDS ACT Employment in Ginning of Cotton and Processing of Sugar Beets, Sugar-Beet... Section 13(b)(15) Introductory § 780.803 Basic conditions of exemption; first part, ginning of cotton...

  7. Basic Business 20-30. Business Education Curriculum Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Alberta Dept. of Education, Edmonton. Curriculum Branch.

    This curriculum guide is one of nine such guides developed for an Alberta high school business education program. Its content covers the main subject area or strand of basic business. Subject to the constraints outlined in the guide, the modules are to be formatted into three- or four-credit courses within each strand. Introductory materials…

  8. The European Network for Research, Action and Training in Adult Literacy and Basic Education (Dublin, Ireland, May 25-30, 1991). A Seminar Organised by EUROALPHA. Adult Basic Education in Prisons.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    1991

    This conference report on adult basic education in European prisons contains the following introductory materials: a list of participants, the program, and introductions to the seminar by Frank Dunne and Pierre Freynet. "Keynote Address" (Robert Suvaal) discusses five items a prison educator must deal with: philosophy, position of…

  9. A Survey of Introductory Statistics Courses at University Faculties of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Japan.

    PubMed

    Matsumura, Mina; Nakayama, Takuto; Sozu, Takashi

    2016-01-01

    A survey of introductory statistics courses at Japanese medical schools was published as a report in 2014. To obtain a complete understanding of the way in which statistics is taught at the university level in Japan, it is important to extend this survey to related fields, including pharmacy, dentistry, and nursing. The current study investigates the introductory statistics courses offered by faculties of pharmaceutical sciences (six-year programs) at Japanese universities, comparing the features of these courses with those studied in the survey of medical schools. We collected relevant data from the online syllabi of statistics courses published on the websites of 71 universities. The survey items included basic course information (for example, the course names, the targeted student grades, the number of credits, and course classification), textbooks, handouts, the doctoral subject and employment status of each lecturer, and course contents. The period surveyed was July-September 2015. We found that these 71 universities offered a total of 128 statistics courses. There were 67 course names, the most common of which was "biostatistics (iryou toukeigaku)." About half of the courses were designed for first- or second-year students. Students earned fewer than two credits. There were 62 different types of textbooks. The lecturers held doctoral degrees in 18 different subjects, the most common being a doctorate in pharmacy or science. Some course content differed, reflecting the lecturers' academic specialties. The content of introductory statistics courses taught in pharmaceutical science programs also differed slightly from the equivalent content taught in medical schools.

  10. Space Shuttle Main Propulsion System Gaseous Hydrogen Flow Control Valve Poppet Failure

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zeitler, Rick

    2010-01-01

    The presentation provides background information pertinent to the MPS GH2 Flow Control Valve Poppet failure which occurred on the Space Shuttle Endeavour during STS-126 flight. The presentation provides general MPS system operating information which is pertinent to understanding the failure causes and affects. The presentation provides additional background information on the operating environment in which the FCV functions and basic design history of the flow control valve. The presentation provides an overview of the possible flight failure modes and a brief summary of the flight rationale which was developed for this failure event. This presentation is an introductory presentation to 3 other speakers at the conference who will be speaking on M&P aspects of the investigation, non destructive inspection techniques development, and particle impact testing.

  11. Introductory Spanish: Part 3.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dade County Public Schools, Miami, FL.

    These Quinmester Program materials are intended for students developing the basic skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Performance Objectives are outlined and structural exercises treating "-e" and "-i" verbs,…

  12. Bricklaying Curriculum: Basic Core. Instructional Materials. Revised.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Turcotte, Raymond J.; Hendrix, Laborn J.

    This volume, the first in a two-volume core curriculum, is designed for use in teaching a course in basic bricklaying. Included in the introductory section of the guide are units on the free enterprise system, the economics of free enterprise, industry orientation, ways of becoming a good leader, job advancement, and safety and first aid. The next…

  13. A Short Test for the Assessment of Basic Knowledge in Psychology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peter, Johannes; Leichner, Nikolas; Mayer, Anne-Kathrin; Krampen, Günter

    2015-01-01

    This paper reports the development of a fixed-choice test for the assessment of basic knowledge in psychology, for use with undergraduate as well as graduate students. Test content is selected based on a core concepts approach and includes a sample of concepts which are indexed most frequently in common introductory psychology textbooks. In a…

  14. Low Voltage Alarm Apprenticeship. Related Training Modules. 7.1-26.10 Alarm Basics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lane Community Coll., Eugene, OR.

    This packet of 70 learning modules on alarm basics is 1 of 8 such packets developed for apprenticeship training for low voltage alarm. Introductory materials are a complete listing of all available modules and a supplementary reference list. Each module contains some or all of these components: goal, performance indicators, study guide (a check…

  15. The Effect of Practice on the Basic Mechanics of Editorial Design.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hill, Donald E.

    A study examined whether student performance in some of the basic skills of editorial design would improve with practice. Subjects, 67 college juniors enrolled in an introductory course in graphic communication, were divided into four groups: male, female, students with ACT scores in mathematics of 14 or below, and students with ACT scores in…

  16. An Analysis of Learners in Introductory Astronomy Massive Open Online Courses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Buxner, Sanlyn; Formanek, Martin; Impey, Chris David; Wenger, Matthew

    2016-06-01

    We describe learners enrolled in three iterations of introductory astronomy massive open online courses (MOOCs). These courses are offered through commercial providers and facilitated by an instructional team at the University of Arizona. We describe an ongoing study of those who enroll, engage in, and complete these courses. The course has undergone several revisions, including integrating pedagogical techniques, found to be effective for in-person courses, to increase engagement including peer review, online discussions, and the use of cohorts. In its current version, learners enroll on a continual basis and complete 11 weeks of course content; they watch videos, complete content quizzes, submit writing assignments, complete peer review of other students’ work, and complete online citizen science projects. Tens of thousands of students has signed up for these courses but completion rates are much lower, around 10%. We have collected survey data from over 8,500 of these learners to assess their basic science knowledge, attitudes towards science and technology, motivations for taking the courses, and information about other ways they engage in science related activities. We present information about these learners, including their demographics, motivations, how they use the courses, and what factors lead to increased engagement and completion. Additionally, we present how survey data from these learners compare to 26 years of data we have collected from parallel group of undergraduate non-science major students enrolled in astronomy courses at the University of Arizona. Overall, we find that learners who enroll in the MOOCs have more interest in science and higher basic science knowledge that undergraduates who pay tuition for a similar course. Our work is helping us understand how to better serve learners in MOOCs and bridge more traditional courses with these types of courses.

  17. A Sourcebook of Cooperative Learning Activities for Introductory Undergraduate Astronomy for Non-Science Majors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deming, Grace L.; Miller, Scott T.; Trasco, John D.

    1996-05-01

    Students become more interested in learning and retain more in courses that rely on active rather than passive teaching methods. Cooperative learning activities can be structured to engage students toward greater participation in their own education. We have developed a sourcebook containing a variety of cooperative learning methods and activities to aid in the teaching of astronomy at the undergraduate level. Special effort has been made to include activities that can be used within the classroom or as a group homework assignment, in courses with teaching assistants and those without, and in large or small classes. In addition to reinforcing concepts taught in introductory astronomy, the activities are structured to strengthen skills associated with a scientifically literate person. A goal of undergraduate science education is to produce citizens who can understand and share in the excitement of scientific discoveries as well as make informed decisions regarding scientific and technological issues. The sourcebook, available in August, 1996, will contain sections on the advantages/disadvantages of group activities, basic cooperative learning techniques, in class/out of class activities, and how to use peer instruction to expose students to the wonderfaul astronomy resources on the internet. Each activity includes suggestions to the instructor as to how the assignment can be incorporated into an introductory astronomy course. This project funded by NSF DUE-9354503.

  18. National Cartographic Information Center Newsletter No. 1

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    ,

    1975-01-01

    This is the first of what we hope will become a continuing series of quarterly NCIC newsletters. You, the reader, are encouraged to make comments, offer praise or criticism as the occasion warrants, send in suggestions, and contribute information or articles. In this issue, we plan to present information on NCIC's operating concepts, systems, and data base and several data acquisition notes. We also have a few words on our future plans along with a brief article on our current microfilming program and a general organizational chart designed to introduce our key personnel. We realize that with such a large amount of basically introductory material our first issue is going to be a bit on the heavy side. Bear with us now and we promise a more traditional format with a lighter editorial touch in the future.

  19. Introduction to Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC). Introduction to Construction Series. Instructor Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Associated General Contractors of America, Washington, DC.

    This module on introductory heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) is one of a series of modules designed to teach basic skills necessary for entry-level employment in this field. The module contains four instructional units that cover the following topics: (1) HVAC materials; (2) HVAC tools; (3) HVAC layout; and (4) HVAC basic skills.…

  20. A Decline in Numeracy Skills among Bioscience Undergraduates.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tariq, Vicki N.

    2002-01-01

    Provides evidence of a decline in basic numeracy skills among first-year bioscience undergraduate students. Tests conceptualized numeracy skills which form a component of an introductory microbiology module. (Contains 23 references.) (Author/YDS)

  1. Physics in the Ionosphere.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Murket, A. J.

    1979-01-01

    Develops a simple model of radio wave propagation and illustrates how basic physical concepts such as refractive index, refraction, reflection and dispersion can be applied to a situation normally not met in introductory physics courses. (Author/GA)

  2. Small Group Activities for Introductory Business Classes.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mundrake, George

    1999-01-01

    Describes numerous small-group activities for the following areas of basic business education: consumer credit, marketing, business organization, entrepreneurship, insurance, risk management, economics, personal finance, business careers, global markets, and government regulation. (SK)

  3. Courses in Modern Physics for Non-science Majors, Future Science Teachers, and Biology Students

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zollman, Dean

    2001-03-01

    For the past 15 years Kansas State University has offered a course in modern physics for students who are not majoring in physics. This course carries a prerequisite of one physics course so that the students have a basic introduction in classical topics. The majors of students range from liberal arts to engineering. Future secondary science teachers whose first area of teaching is not physics can use the course as part of their study of science. The course has evolved from a lecture format to one which is highly interactive and uses a combination of hands-on activities, tutorials and visualizations, particularly the Visual Quantum Mechanics materials. Another course encourages biology students to continue their physics learning beyond the introductory course. Modern Miracle Medical Machines introduces the basic physics which underlie diagnosis techniques such as MRI and PET and laser surgical techniques. Additional information is available at http://www.phys.ksu.edu/perg/

  4. Psychology Ethics in Introductory Psychology Textbooks

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Zucchero, Renee' A.

    2011-01-01

    Previous research revealed that introductory psychology textbooks included limited information about psychology ethics. This study reviewed 48 current introductory psychology textbooks for research and other APA ethics content. These textbooks included slightly more total ethics content and were more thorough in their review of research ethics…

  5. Cells and cell biochemistry.

    PubMed

    Farley, Alistair; Hendry, Charles; McLafferty, Ella

    This article, which forms part of the life sciences series, aims to promote understanding of the basic structure and function of cells. It assists healthcare professionals to appreciate the complex anatomy and physiology underpinning the functioning of the human body. Several introductory chemical concepts and terms are outlined. The basic building blocks of all matter, atoms, are examined and the way in which they may interact to form new compounds within the body is discussed. The basic structures and components that make up a typical cell are considered.

  6. Nursing Process. Nursing: Basic Needs I. Nursing: Basic Needs II. Nursing through the Life Span. Entry into Professional Nursing. A Basic Course Outline (College Freshmen) for Nursing. A Four Year "2+2" Articulated Curriculum for the Occupation of Nursing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Maddox, Gaylon; And Others

    This course outline provides materials for third-year courses in a "2+2" curriculum for the occupation of registered nurse. It is part of a planned and articulated 4-year curriculum that spans the junior and senior years of high school and the freshman and sophomore years of the postsecondary institution. Introductory materials include:…

  7. Bouncing Back From "Deflategate"

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    DiLisi, Gregory A.; Rarick, Richard A.

    2015-09-01

    Halfway through the 2015 AFC Championship game between the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts, game officials discovered that the Patriots were using underinflated footballs on their offensive snaps. A controversy ensued because the Patriots had actually supplied these balls to the game's referee just hours before kickoff. Athletes and physicists have since agreed that using underinflated footballs gives several unfair advantages to the offensive team. Media outlets have focused their attention on two possible culprits behind the deflationary debacle: either the Patriots had intentionally underinflated their supply of footballs, or the climatic conditions, coupled with the various impacts to which the balls were subjected during the course of the game, had somehow altered the internal air pressure of the balls. This controversy soon became known as "Deflategate" (the moniker makes an obvious connection to the 1970s "Watergate" scandal). The purpose of this article is to bring Deflategate into the laboratory activities of high school and undergraduate introductory physics courses. First, we provide some background information on the actual 2015 AFC Championship game and subsequent media blitz surrounding the controversy. When used in an introductory mechanics class, this information can help students contextualize Deflategate as a real-word application of the material they are learning. Next, we recast the spotlight on Deflategate from its current focus, the ideal gas law, to a new one—namely, the physics of a bouncing ball. We then use this scenario as a motivation for a fun but informative set of experiments that can be carried out using equipment already in most high school or college laboratories. The subsequent data analysis relies on three basic principles: projectile motion, conservation of energy, and linear impulse/momentum. The analysis showcases the application of introductory physics to the world of sports, brings current events into the classroom, and demonstrates how multiple problem-solving strategies can be used to examine different aspects of a single event. Finally, some experimental results are presented and discussed.

  8. Providing Relevance in Chemistry for Nursing Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jones, Theodore H. D.

    1976-01-01

    Describes an introductory chemistry course for nurses in which students learn basic chemical principles by performing 12 chemical analyses that are routinely conducted on body fluids and listed on a patient's clinical laboratory chart. (MLH)

  9. A Computer-Based Subduction-Zone-Earthquake Exercise for Introductory-Geology Classes.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shea, James Herbert

    1991-01-01

    Describes the author's computer-based program for a subduction-zone-earthquake exercise. Instructions for conducting the activity and obtaining the program from the author are provided. Written in IBM QuickBasic. (PR)

  10. Developing Information Fluency in Introductory Biology Students in the Context of an Investigative Laboratory

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lindquester, Gary J.; Burks, Romi L.; Jaslow, Carolyn R.

    2005-01-01

    Students of biology must learn the scientific method for generating information in the field. Concurrently, they should learn how information is reported and accessed. We developed a progressive set of exercises for the undergraduate introductory biology laboratory that combine these objectives. Pre- and postassessments of approximately 100…

  11. Students' Confidence in the Ability to Transfer Basic Math Skills in Introductory Physics and Chemistry Courses at a Community College

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Quinn, Reginald

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine the confidence levels that community college students have in transferring basic math skills to science classes, as well as any factors that influence their confidence levels. This study was conducted with 196 students at a community college in central Mississippi. The study was conducted during the month…

  12. Un Modelo Basico de Instruccion Directa Para la Ensenanza de la Metodologia de la Investigacion (Using the Basic Direct Model of Instruction To Teach an Introductory Research Model).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Serafin, Ana Gil

    This study examined the application of the Basic Direct Instruction Model (BDIM), a methodology designed to maximize student interest in instrumental and methodological courses, to graduate level educational leadership students. The research used qualitative techniques and a participatory approach with a sample of 92 beginning level Masters…

  13. The Greening of Marketing: An Analysis of Introductory Textbooks

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    DeMoss, Michelle; Nicholson, Carolyn Y.

    2005-01-01

    In this study, the authors examined whether introductory marketing textbooks contain the information that is needed to educate future business leaders about the important role of environmentally sustainable practices. We content-analyzed the 21 current introductory marketing textbooks for coverage of these practices. The results showed limited,…

  14. Global Issues in an Introductory Earth Science Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pierce, James P.

    Information is provided explaining the incorporation of global issues units into an introductory earth science course at Skagit Valley Community College (Mount Vernon, Washington). First, a short description is provided of the original format of the earth science course, which was designed as an introductory level survey course covering topics in…

  15. Towards a Virtual Teaching Assistant to Answer Questions Asked by Students in Introductory Computer Science

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Heiner, Cecily

    2009-01-01

    Students in introductory programming classes often articulate their questions and information needs incompletely. Consequently, the automatic classification of student questions to provide automated tutorial responses is a challenging problem. This dissertation analyzes 411 questions from an introductory Java programming course by reducing the…

  16. Marine Information Centre Development: An Introductory Manual. Manuals and Guides 23.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Varley, Allan

    The purpose of this introductory manual is briefly to explain and put into context the elements involved in marine information center development and operation. Its goal is to provide an overview and create an awareness of the range of the inter-connected procedures, activities, and products that make up an information service. The introductory…

  17. Characterizing the Fundamental Intellectual Steps Required in the Solution of Conceptual Problems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stewart, John

    2010-02-01

    At some level, the performance of a science class must depend on what is taught, the information content of the materials and assignments of the course. The introductory calculus-based electricity and magnetism class at the University of Arkansas is examined using a catalog of the basic reasoning steps involved in the solution of problems assigned in the class. This catalog was developed by sampling popular physics textbooks for conceptual problems. The solution to each conceptual problem was decomposed into its fundamental reasoning steps. These fundamental steps are, then, used to quantify the distribution of conceptual content within the course. Using this characterization technique, an exceptionally detailed picture of the information flow and structure of the class can be produced. The intellectual structure of published conceptual inventories is compared with the information presented in the class and the dependence of conceptual performance on the details of coverage extracted. )

  18. Introductory Courses in Social Work Research in Canada: Some Examples.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Canadian Association of Schools of Social Work, Ottawa (Ontario).

    Various approaches to introductory courses in social work research in Canada are described. Objectives of the report are to promote informational exchange among instructors in schools of social work, to provide data on common practices employed in the instruction of introductory research, to encourage innovation and experimentation, and to aid in…

  19. Introductory Psychology Textbooks: An Objective Analysis Update

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Griggs, Richard A.; Jackson, Sherri L.

    2013-01-01

    It has been 13 years since the last objective analysis of full-length introductory psychology textbooks was published and 15 years since the textbook copyright period used in that study, 1995-1997. Given the importance of informed textbook evaluation and selection to the introductory course but the difficulty of this task because of the large…

  20. Computer Literacy and Non-IS Majors

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thomas, Jennifer D. E.; Blackwood, Martina

    2010-01-01

    This paper presents an investigation of non-Information Systems (IS) major's perceptions and performance when enrolled in a required introductory Computer Information Systems course. Students of various academic backgrounds were taught Excel, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), JavaScript and computer literacy in a 14-week introductory course, in…

  1. Informed decision-making among students analyzing their personal genomes on a whole genome sequencing course: a longitudinal cohort study

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Multiple laboratories now offer clinical whole genome sequencing (WGS). We anticipate WGS becoming routinely used in research and clinical practice. Many institutions are exploring how best to educate geneticists and other professionals about WGS. Providing students in WGS courses with the option to analyze their own genome sequence is one strategy that might enhance students’ engagement and motivation to learn about personal genomics. However, if this option is presented to students, it is vital they make informed decisions, do not feel pressured into analyzing their own genomes by their course directors or peers, and feel free to analyze a third-party genome if they prefer. We therefore developed a 26-hour introductory genomics course in part to help students make informed decisions about whether to receive personal WGS data in a subsequent advanced genomics course. In the advanced course, they had the option to receive their own personal genome data, or an anonymous genome, at no financial cost to them. Our primary aims were to examine whether students made informed decisions regarding analyzing their personal genomes, and whether there was evidence that the introductory course enabled the students to make a more informed decision. Methods This was a longitudinal cohort study in which students (N = 19) completed questionnaires assessing their intentions, informed decision-making, attitudes and knowledge before (T1) and after (T2) the introductory course, and before the advanced course (T3). Informed decision-making was assessed using the Decisional Conflict Scale. Results At the start of the introductory course (T1), most (17/19) students intended to receive their personal WGS data in the subsequent course, but many expressed conflict around this decision. Decisional conflict decreased after the introductory course (T2) indicating there was an increase in informed decision-making, and did not change before the advanced course (T3). This suggests that it was the introductory course content rather than simply time passing that had the effect. In the advanced course, all (19/19) students opted to receive their personal WGS data. No changes in technical knowledge of genomics were observed. Overall attitudes towards WGS were broadly positive. Conclusions Providing students with intensive introductory education about WGS may help them make informed decisions about whether or not to work with their personal WGS data in an educational setting. PMID:24373383

  2. Ada in Introductory Computer Science Courses

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-01-01

    Ada by Daniel F. Stubbs and Neil W. Webre Course Objective: To introduce the students to the basic classical data structures of computer science...Introduction to Ada, Chapman & Hall, 1993, London Dale/Weems/McCormick, Programming and Problem Solving with Ada, D. C. Heath and Company, 1994, MA Feldman...Daniel F. Stubbs and Neil W. Webre - Course Objective: To introduce the students to the basic classical data structures of computer science

  3. Perceptions of D.M.D. student readiness for basic science courses in the United States: can online review modules help?

    PubMed

    Miller, C J; Aiken, S A; Metz, M J

    2015-02-01

    There can be a disconnect between the level of content covered in undergraduate coursework and the expectations of professional-level faculty of their incoming students. Some basic science faculty members may assume that students have a good knowledge base in the material and neglect to appropriately review, whilst others may spend too much class time reviewing basic material. It was hypothesised that the replacement of introductory didactic physiology lectures with interactive online modules could improve student preparedness prior to lectures. These modules would also allow faculty members to analyse incoming student abilities and save valuable face-to-face class time for alternative teaching strategies. Results indicated that the performance levels of incoming U.S. students were poor (57% average on a pre-test), and students often under-predicted their abilities (by 13% on average). Faculty expectations varied greatly between the different content areas and did not appear to correlate with the actual student performance. Three review modules were created which produced a statistically significant increase in post-test scores (46% increase, P < 0.0001, n = 114-115). The positive results of this study suggest a need to incorporate online review units in the basic science dental school courses and revise introductory material tailored to students' strengths and needs.

  4. Manipulations of Cartesian Graphs: A First Introduction to Analysis.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lowenthal, Francis; Vandeputte, Christiane

    1989-01-01

    Introduces an introductory module for analysis. Describes stock of basic functions and their graphs as part one and three methods as part two: transformations of simple graphs, the sum of stock functions, and upper and lower bounds. (YP)

  5. Teaching Sustainability in Introductory Physics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Coffey, David

    Guiding students to a better understanding of sustainability is a key part of a modern undergraduate education. Since 2014, Warren Wilson College has incorporated a sustainability component into our introductory physics courses. Students perform energy audits and abatement plans for a business or building. In the process, students strengthen their competency with basic physics concepts including energy, power, units, and conservation of energy but also gain an appreciation of the complexity of sustainability as well as the need for quantitative understanding. These courses are taught to mostly undergraduate science majors. The challenges and opportunities of incorporating such a broad and personalized educational component will be discussed.

  6. Brief Introductory Psychology Textbooks: An Objective Analysis Update

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Griggs, Richard A.; Jackson, Sherri L.

    2013-01-01

    It has been 12 years since the last objective analysis of brief introductory psychology textbooks was published and 13 years since the textbook copyright period used in that study, 1997-2000. Given the importance of informed textbook evaluation and selection to the introductory course but the difficulty of this task because of the large number of…

  7. Toward Publicly Responsive Sociology Curricula: The Role of Introductory Sociology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Greenwood, Nancy A.

    2013-01-01

    Introductory sociology casts a wide net with regard to its audience and plays an important role in capturing the public eye as well as helping students to make more informed choices in their lives and communities. I ask six questions that help us as sociologists to think about how introductory sociology can better serve our discipline, our…

  8. Nuclear pharmacy: An introduction to the clinical application of radiopharmaceuticals

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chilton, H.M.; Witcofski, R.L.

    1986-01-01

    This introductory text reviews fundamental concepts of nuclear pharmacy in a logical, stepwise manner. It presents those aspects of radioactivity basic to nuclear pharmacy including production of radioactivity and the types of instrumentation used to detect and measure radiation.

  9. Stata companion.

    PubMed

    Brennan, Jennifer Sousa

    2010-01-01

    This chapter is an introductory reference guide highlighting some of the most common statistical topics, broken down into both command-line syntax and graphical interface point-and-click commands. This chapter serves to supplement more formal statistics lessons and expedite using Stata to compute basic analyses.

  10. Fundamentals of nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    This volume of Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science is devoted to the exciting and promising field of nutrigenetics and nutrigenomics. The introductory chapter defines the basic concepts necessary for the interpretation of the material covered in the remainder of the volume. Empha...

  11. A Multidisciplinary Approach for Teaching Statistics and Probability

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rao, C. Radhakrishna

    1971-01-01

    The author presents a syllabus for an introductory (first year after high school) course in statistics and probability and some methods of teaching statistical techniques. The description comes basically from the procedures used at the Indian Statistical Institute, Calcutta. (JG)

  12. Science Literacy and Prior Knowledge of Astronomy MOOC Students

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Impey, Chris David; Buxner, Sanlyn; Wenger, Matthew; Formanek, Martin

    2018-01-01

    Many of science classes offered on Coursera fall into fall into the category of general education or general interest classes for lifelong learners, including our own, Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space. Very little is known about the backgrounds and prior knowledge of these students. In this talk we present the results of a survey of our Astronomy MOOC students. We also compare these results to our previous work on undergraduate students in introductory astronomy courses. Survey questions examined student demographics and motivations as well as their science and information literacy (including basic science knowledge, interest, attitudes and beliefs, and where they get their information about science). We found that our MOOC students are different than the undergraduate students in more ways than demographics. Many MOOC students demonstrated high levels of science and information literacy. With a more comprehensive understanding of our students’ motivations and prior knowledge about science and how they get their information about science, we will be able to develop more tailored learning experiences for these lifelong learners.

  13. Learning Styles, Online Content Usage and Exam Performance in a Mixed-Format Introductory Computer Information Systems Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lang, Guido; O'Connell, Stephen D.

    2015-01-01

    We investigate the relationship between learning styles, online content usage and exam performance in an undergraduate introductory Computer Information Systems class comprised of both online video tutorials and in-person classes. Our findings suggest that, across students, (1) traditional learning style classification methodologies do not predict…

  14. Affect and Mood Problems Related to School Aged Youth. An Introductory Packet.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    California Univ., Los Angeles. Center for Mental Health in Schools.

    This introductory packet provides an introduction to affect and mood problems, framing the discussion within the classification scheme developed by the American Pediatric Association. Included is information on the symptoms and severity of a variety of affect and mood problems, as well as information on interventions ranging from environmental…

  15. Impact of Hands-On Research Experience on Students' Learning in an Introductory Management Information System Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wu, Yun; Sankar, Chetan S.

    2013-01-01

    Although students in Introductory Information Systems courses are taught new technology concepts, the complexity and constantly changing nature of these technologies makes it challenging to deliver the concepts effectively. Aiming to improve students' learning experiences, this research utilized the five phases of design science methodology to…

  16. The Development of Introductory Statistics Students' Informal Inferential Reasoning and Its Relationship to Formal Inferential Reasoning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jacob, Bridgette L.

    2013-01-01

    The difficulties introductory statistics students have with formal statistical inference are well known in the field of statistics education. "Informal" statistical inference has been studied as a means to introduce inferential reasoning well before and without the formalities of formal statistical inference. This mixed methods study…

  17. 77 FR 72715 - Informal Entry Limit and Removal of a Formal Entry Requirement

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-12-06

    ... required certifications, enforcement information, and statistical data. An agency may not conduct or..., 1623, 1624, 3314. * * * * * Sec. 10.1 [Amended] 0 2. In Sec. 10.1: 0 a. Paragraph (a) introductory text... revising``19------'' to read ``20---- --''; 0 c. Paragraph (a)(2) introductory text is amended in the last...

  18. Space physics education via examples in the undergraduate physics curriculum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martin, R.; Holland, D. L.

    2011-12-01

    The field of space physics is rich with examples of basic physics and analysis techniques, yet it is rarely seen in physics courses or textbooks. As space physicists in an undergraduate physics department we like to use research to inform teaching, and we find that students respond well to examples from magnetospheric science. While we integrate examples into general education courses as well, this talk will focus on physics major courses. Space physics examples are typically selected to illustrate a particular concept or method taught in the course. Four examples will be discussed, from an introductory electricity and magnetism course, a mechanics/nonlinear dynamics course, a computational physics course, and a plasma physics course. Space physics provides examples of many concepts from introductory E&M, including the application of Faraday's law to terrestrial magnetic storm effects and the use of the basic motion of charged particles as a springboard to discussion of the inner magnetosphere and the aurora. In the mechanics and nonlinear dynamics courses, the motion of charged particles in a magnetotail current sheet magnetic field is treated as a Newtonian dynamical system, illustrating the Poincaré surface-of-section technique, the partitioning of phase space, and the KAM theorem. Neural network time series analysis of AE data is used as an example in the computational physics course. Finally, among several examples, current sheet particle dynamics is utilized in the plasma physics course to illustrate the notion of adiabatic/guiding center motion and the breakdown of the adiabatic approximation. We will present short descriptions of our pedagogy and student assignments in this "backdoor" method of space physics education.

  19. Teaching Introductory Psychology in the Community College Classroom: Enhancing Student Understanding and Retention of Essential Information

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Debb, Scott M.; Debb, Sharon M.

    2012-01-01

    Enrolling in an introductory course in psychology is a staple of many community college students' core curriculum. For those students who plan to pursue social science and humanities-related majors in particular, introductory psychology helps provide a solid base upon which future coursework at all academic levels will be built. The goal of any…

  20. Entrepreneurship as a Career Choice.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ashmore, M. Catherine; And Others

    This curriculum guide is designed to provide some basic materials to assist in developing an introductory approach to entrepreneurship as a career option. Chapter 1 presents an overview of entrepreneurship education and possible teaching strategies, including a topical outline, resource suggestions, detailed descriptions of available curriculum…

  1. Thermochemical Analysis of Neutralization Reactions: An Introductory Discovery Experiment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mills, Kenneth V.; Gullmette, Louise W.

    2007-01-01

    The article describes a new discovery experiment that uses thermodynamical analysis to study neutralization reactions based on neutralization of citric acid. The experiment would be able to reinforce students' understanding of stoichiometry and allow for the discovery of basic concepts of thermochemistry.

  2. The Gerbil Jar: A Basic Home Experience in Operant Conditioning.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Plant, L.

    1980-01-01

    Explains how a teaching method such as allowing students to raise gerbils at home can encourage students to gain experience with the fundamental techniques of operant conditioning which are otherwise generally unavailable to students in large introductory psychology courses. (DB)

  3. Diesel Technology: Introduction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Joerschke, John D.; Eichhorn, Lane C.

    Competency-based teacher and student materials are provided for an introductory course on diesel technology. Twelve units of instruction cover the following topics: workplace tools, common materials, and basic related principles. The materials are based on the curriculum-alignment concept of first stating the objectives, then developing…

  4. Bridging High School and Introductory Undergraduate Courses in Geographic Information Science and Technology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Journal of Geography, 2018

    2018-01-01

    This article presents the findings of a study to determine the degree of consistency in what is taught and learned in high school and college-level introductory courses in geographic information science and technology (GIS&T). A content analysis identified sixteen topics that are generally representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities…

  5. Adoption of Open Educational Resources (OER) Textbook for an Introductory Information Systems Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wang, Shouhong; Wang, Hai

    2017-01-01

    Open educational resources (OER) can make educational resources widely available to all students and educators for free; however, OER are still untried in many academic programmes in higher education. This article reports a case of adoption of an open access textbook for an introductory information systems course and discusses the process and…

  6. Enabling Field Experiences in Introductory Geoscience Classes through the Use of Immersive Virtual Reality

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moysey, S. M.; Smith, E.; Sellers, V.; Wyant, P.; Boyer, D. M.; Mobley, C.; Brame, S.

    2015-12-01

    Although field experiences are an important aspect of geoscience education, the opportunity to provide physical world experiences to large groups of introductory students is often limited by access, logistical, and financial constraints. Our project (NSF IUSE 1504619) is investigating the use of immersive virtual reality (VR) technologies as a surrogate for real field experiences in introductory geosciences classes. We are developing a toolbox that leverages innovations in the field of VR, including the Oculus Rift and Google Cardboard, to enable every student in an introductory geology classroom the opportunity to have a first-person virtual field experience in the Grand Canyon. We have opted to structure our VR experience as an interactive game where students must explore the Canyon to accomplish a series of tasks designed to emphasize key aspects of geoscience learning. So far we have produced two demo products for the virtual field trip. The first is a standalone "Rock Box" app developed for the iPhone, which allows students to select different rock samples, examine them in 3D, and obtain basic information about the properties of each sample. The app can act as a supplement to the traditional rock box used in physical geology labs. The second product is a fully functioning VR environment for the Grand Canyon developed using satellite-based topographic and imagery data to retain real geologic features within the experience. Players can freely navigate to explore anywhere they desire within the Canyon, but are guided to points of interest where they are able to complete exercises that will be aligned with specific learning goals. To this point we have integrated elements of the "Rock Box" app within the VR environment, allowing players to examine 3D details of rock samples they encounter within the Grand Canyon. We plan to provide demos of both products and obtain user feedback during our presentation.

  7. General Electronics Technician: Basic Electronics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hilley, Robert

    These instructional materials include a teacher's guide designed to assist instructors in organizing and presenting an introductory course in general electronics and a student guide. The materials are based on the curriculum-alignment concept of first stating the objectives, developing instructional strategies for teaching those objectives, and…

  8. Basic Drafting. Revised.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schertz, Karen

    This introductory module on drafting includes the technical content and tasks necessary for a student to be employed in an entry-level drafting occupation. The module contains 18 instructional units that cover the following topics: introduction to drafting; tools and equipment; supplies and materials; sketching; scales; drawing format; lettering;…

  9. A New Chemistry Course for Non-Chemistry Majors.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ariel, Magda; And Others

    1982-01-01

    A two-semester basic chemistry course for nonchemistry engineering majors is described. First semester provides introductory chemistry for freshmen while second semester is "customer-oriented," based on a departmental choice of three out of six independent modules. For example, aeronautical engineering "customers" would select…

  10. Behavior Management of Special Needs Learners: Positive Approaches.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Missouri Univ., Columbia. Missouri LINC.

    The paper addresses behavior management strategies for developing new behaviors in special needs learners, strategies for changing existing behaviors, and strategies for developing behavioral generalization. An introductory overview identifies five basic principles of behavior management. Fourteen behavioral terms are then defined (e.g.,…

  11. Applied Educational Computing: Putting Skills to Practice.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thomerson, J. D.

    The College of Education at Valdosta State University (Georgia) developed a followup course to their required entry-level educational computing course. The introductory course covers word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, Internet, electronic mail, and operating system software and basic computer concepts. Students expressed a need…

  12. Using the Microcomputer to Develop Listening Skills.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mohler, Stephen C.

    A college-level introductory Spanish instructional system uses an interactive combination of microcomputer and program-stop tape recorder to enhance students' listening skills. The basic content is listening drills, adapted to the computer medium. Microcomputer use adds considerable versatility to instructional materials, including such features…

  13. A Piagetian Learning Cycle for Introductory Chemical Kinetics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Batt, Russell H.

    1980-01-01

    Described is a Piagetian learning cycle based on Monte Carlo modeling of several simple reaction mechanisms. Included are descriptions of learning cycle phases (exploration, invention, and discovery) and four BASIC-PLUS computer programs to be used in the explanation of chemical reacting systems. (Author/DS)

  14. Turkish 12 Week Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Defense Language Inst., Washington, DC.

    This audiolingual beginner's course has been prepared for the Defense Language Institute intensive program in modern spoken Turkish. The course, consisting of six volumes of basic text in 55 units begins with an introductory section which presents the linguistic background, phonology, and distinguishing features of Turkish. The lesson format…

  15. Lunatics in Introductory Physics: Using Collectivized Student Moon Position Observations To Teach Basic Orbital Mechanics In Calculus Based Introductory Physics.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bottorff, Mark

    2012-01-01

    A large (74 student) calculus based physics class was required to make observations of the moon over two lunar cycles using a small telescope equipped with mechanical setting circles. The data was collectivized and then analyzed in the laboratory to determine the period of the moon and to search for evidence of the eccentricity of the moon's orbit. These results were used in conjunction with the simple pendulum experiment in which the students inferred the acceleration due to gravity. The student inferred lunar orbital period and acceleration due to gravity (augmented with the radius of the Earth) enabled the students to infer the average Earth to moon distance. Class lectures, activities, and homework on gravitation and orbits were tailored to this observational activity thereby forming a learning module. A basic physics and orbital mechanics knowledge questionnaire was administered before and after the learning module. The resulting learning gains are reported here.

  16. The solar-terrestrial environment. An introduction to geospace - the science of the terrestrial upper atmosphere, ionosphere and magnetosphere.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hargreaves, J. K.

    This textbook is a successor to "The upper atmosphere and solar-terrestrial relations" first published in 1979. It describes physical conditions in the upper atmosphere and magnetosphere of the Earth. This geospace environment begins 70 kilometres above the surface of the Earth and extends in near space to many times the Earth's radius. It is the region of near-Earth environment where the Space Shuttle flies, the aurora is generated, and the outer atmosphere meets particles streaming out of the sun. The account is introductory. The intent is to present basic concepts, and for that reason the mathematical treatment is not complex. There are three introductory chapters that give basic physics and explain the principles of physical investigation. The principal material contained in the main part of the book covers the neutral and ionized upper atmosphere, the magetosphere, and structures, dynamics, disturbances and irregularities. The concluding chapter deals with technological applications.

  17. Using Computers in Introductory Astronomy Courses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deming, Grace L.

    1995-12-01

    Computer literacy is fast becoming a focal point in undergraduate education. Scientific literacy has been a continuing goal of undergraduate programs across the nation and a course in introductory astronomy is often used to satisfy such science requirements. At U. MD an introduction to computer skills is being integrated into our astronomy curriculum for non-science majors. The campus is adequately equipped with computer labs, yet many students enter college without basic computer skills. In Astronomy 101 (General Astronomy) students are introduced to electronic mail, a Listserver, and the world wide web. Students in this course are required to register for a free campus computer account. Their first assignment is to use e-mail to subscribe to the class Listserver, Milkyway. Through Milkyway, students have access to weekly lecture summaries, questions to review for exams, and copies of previous exams. Using e-mail students may pose questions, provide comments, or exchange opinions using Milkyway, or they may e-mail the instructor directly. Studies indicate that using e-mail is less intimidating to a student than asking a question in a class of 200 students. Monitoring e-mail for student questions has not been a problem. Student reaction has been favorable to using e-mail, since instructor office hours are not always convenient, especially to commuting or working students. Through required assignments, students receive an introduction to accessing information on the world wide web using Netscape. Astronomy has great resources available on the Internet which can be used to supplement and reinforce introductory material. Assignments are structured so that students will gain the techniques necessary to access available information. It is hoped that students will successfully apply the computer skills they learn in astronomy class to their own fields and as life-long learners. We have found that students comfortable with computers are willing to share their knowledge with others. The computer activities have been structured to promote cooperation between students. These skills are also necessary for success.

  18. Introductory Biophysics Course: Presentation of Physics in a Biological Context

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Henderson, B. J.; Henderson, M. A.

    1976-01-01

    An introductory biophysics course for science students who have previously taken two quarters of noncalculus physics is described. Material covered emphasizes the physical principles of sound, light, electricity, energy, and information. (Author/CP)

  19. Students' Use of Optional Online Reviews and Its Relationship to Summative Assessment Outcomes in Introductory Biology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carpenter, Shana K.; Rahman, Shuhebur; Lund, Terry J. S.; Armstrong, Patrick I.; Lamm, Monica H.; Reason, Robert D.; Coffman, Clark R.

    2017-01-01

    Retrieval practice has been shown to produce significant enhancements in student learning of course information, but the extent to which students make use of retrieval to learn information on their own is unclear. In the current study, students in a large introductory biology course were provided with optional online review questions that could be…

  20. Clicking to Learn: A Case Study of Embedding Radio-Frequency Based Clickers in an Introductory Management Information Systems Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nelson, Matthew L.; Hauck, Roslin V.

    2008-01-01

    The challenges associated with teaching a core introductory management information systems (MIS) course are well known (large class sizes serving a majority of non-MIS majors, sustaining student interests, encouraging class participation, etc.). This study offers a mechanism towards managing these challenges through the use of a simple and…

  1. Computer-Assisted Instruction Case Study: The Introductory Marketing Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Skinner, Steven J.; Grimm, Jim L.

    1979-01-01

    Briefly reviews research on the effectiveness of CAI in instruction, and describes a study comparing the performance of students using one program for basic marketing--TRMP (Tutorial Review of Marketing Principles)--with or without a study guide, the study guide alone, and a traditional class. (BBM)

  2. The ALARM Experiment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gerhardt, Ira

    2015-01-01

    An experiment was conducted over three recent semesters of an introductory calculus course to test whether it was possible to quantify the effect that difficulty with basic algebraic and arithmetic computation had on individual performance. Points lost during the term were classified as being due to either algebraic and arithmetic mistakes…

  3. Terra Firma: "Physics First" for Teaching Chemistry to Pre-Service Elementary School Teachers

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    More, Michelle B.

    2007-01-01

    A pre-service elementary school teacher chemistry class that incorporates the physics first idea is described. This class is taught basic physics followed by introductory chemistry and the students' response indicates that both science literacy and science interest increase using this method.

  4. Economic Development for Small Communities and Rural Areas.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Phillips, Phillip D.

    This book is designed to provide an introductory understanding of challenges, goals, processes, and procedures for economic developers, particularly economic development volunteers, in rural areas and small towns. Chapter 1 defines economic development and basic terms. Chapter 2 describes major economic, social, and demographic trends that…

  5. Nutrition for Nurses: Nursing 245.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Palermo, Karen R.

    A description is presented of "Nutrition for Nurses," a prerequisite course for students anticipating entrance into the junior level of a state university registered nursing program. Introductory material highlights the course focus (i.e., the basics of good nutrition; nutrition through the life cycle; nursing process in nutritional care; and…

  6. A Guide to Monitoring Residential Settings.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taylor, Steven J.

    The guide provides some basic strategies and tools for monitoring residential settings--both institutions and community residences--for the quality of services provided to persons with developmental disabilities. An introductory chapter explains the purpose and layout of the document. Chapter II describes how to find and understand public…

  7. 29 CFR 548.100 - Introductory statement.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... simplify bookkeeping and computation of overtime pay. 1 The regular rate is the average hourly earnings of... AUTHORIZATION OF ESTABLISHED BASIC RATES FOR COMPUTING OVERTIME PAY Interpretations Introduction § 548.100... requirements of computing overtime pay at the regular rate, 1 and to allow, under specific conditions, the use...

  8. The Responsive University: Restructuring for High Performance.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tierney, William G., Ed.

    This book describes how colleges and universities might respond more effectively to changing social, demographic, and political forces. An introductory chapter, "On the Road to Recovery and Renewal: Reinventing Academe" (William G. Tierney), advocates reorienting basic work structures and designing more creative organizations. In "Listening to the…

  9. Governing and Foundation Board Relationships. Foundation Relations. Board Basics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Legon, Richard D.

    1999-01-01

    This booklet for trustees of institutions of higher education discusses principles for the relationship between institutional governing and foundation boards. An introductory section offers examples of poor outcomes resulting from a lack of collegial, productive relationships between these groups and stresses the importance of clarifying the…

  10. Banking Structure and Monetary Policy: New Wine in Old Bottles.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hacche, John

    1989-01-01

    Provides an extension of the basic banking model used in introductory economics courses. This expanded model introduces the concept of banking capital and reserves, and includes the relationship existing between current issues and banking structure and money supply growth. Provides worksheet exercises and answers. (LS)

  11. Laboratory Activities for Developing Process Skills.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Institute for Services to Education, Inc., Washington, DC.

    This workbook contains laboratory exercises designed for use in a college introductory biology course. Each exercise helps the student develop a basic science skill. The exercises are arranged in a hierarchical sequence suggesting the scientific method. Each skill facilitates the development of succeeding ones. Activities include Use of the…

  12. Colorado Model Content Standards: Foreign Language.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Colorado State Dept. of Education, Denver.

    The model course content standards for foreign language instruction in Colorado's public schools, K-12, provide guidelines, not curriculum, for school districts to design language programs. An introductory section presents some basic considerations in program design. The two general standards for foreign language performance are that: (1) students…

  13. Law 20-30: Teacher Resource Manual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    King, John; Jackson, Landis

    Law 20, in the Alberta (Canada) educational system, is an introductory course with three core modules: (1) "Nature of Law and Civil Law System," (2) "Contract Law," and (3) "Family Law." Law 30 consists of (1) "Basic Rights and Responsibilities," (2) "Labour Law," and (3) "Property Law."…

  14. Effective Group Dynamics: Theories and Practices.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Murk, Peter J.

    Using a brief experiential group activity called "Choosing a Color Exercise" as an introductory measure, this paper explains the basics of group dynamics and reviews the major theoretical relationships between the group's structure, the dynamics of maintenance and task behaviors, and effective individual performances. The types of functional and…

  15. Curriculum Guide for Building Construction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oregon State Board of Education, Salem.

    This guide outlines the basic skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level competencies in the field of building construction, or for entrance into a post-high school or university program. The introductory section includes (1) brief job descriptions from the "Dictionary of Occupational Titles" for the seven key occupations represented…

  16. Factors associated with the success of first-time African American freshmen taking introductory science lecture courses at a private HBCU

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Smith, Kendra Leigh

    This study had four purposes: (1) to investigate the relationship between performance in introductory biology or introductory chemistry lecture courses and their accompanying laboratory courses, (2) to investigate the relationship between performance in introductory biology or introductory chemistry lecture courses and a student's gender, (3) to investigate the relationship between performance in introductory biology or introductory chemistry lecture courses and a student's major, and (4) to investigate the relationship between performance in introductory biology or introductory chemistry lecture courses and a student's ACT scores. The sample consisted of 195 first--time freshmen who enrolled in and completed an introductory biology or an introductory chemistry lecture and laboratory courses during the fall semesters of 2007-2012. Of the 195 students, 61 were enrolled in introductory chemistry and 134 were enrolled in introductory biology courses. Logistic regression, via the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), was utilized to analyze several variables as they related to success in the lecture courses. Data were extracted from the university's student information system (BANNER), and analyses were conducted on biology and chemistry separately. The dependent variable for this study was a dichotomous variable for success and nonsuccess in introductory biology or introductory chemistry lecture course. The independent variables analyzed were student's gender, major, final grade in an accompanying biology or chemistry laboratory course, and ACT test scores (composite, mathematics, and science). Results indicate that concurrent enrollment in a biology laboratory course increased the likelihood of success by 15.64 times in the lecture course. Gender was found to not be a significant predictor of success for either introductory biology or introductory chemistry lecture courses. STEM majors were 9.6 times more likely to be successful than non-STEM majors in introductory chemistry lecture course. It was also found that the higher the given ACT score (composite, science, mathematics), the higher the rate of success (between a 1.19-1.44 odds increase for every one point increase in ACT score) in both introductory biology and introductory chemistry lecture courses.

  17. Socioemotional selectivity theory, aging, and health: the increasingly delicate balance between regulating emotions and making tough choices.

    PubMed

    Löckenhoff, Corinna E; Carstensen, Laura L

    2004-12-01

    After providing an introductory overview of socioemotional selectivity theory, we review empirical evidence for its basic postulates and consider the implications of the predicted cognitive and behavioral changes for physical health. The main assertion of socioemotional selectivity theory is that when boundaries on time are perceived, present-oriented goals related to emotional meaning are prioritized over future-oriented goals aimed at acquiring information and expanding horizons. Such motivational changes, which are strongly correlated with chronological age, systematically influence social preferences, social network composition, emotion regulation, and cognitive processing. On the one hand, there is considerable reason to believe that such changes are good for well-being and social adjustment. On the other hand, the very same motivational changes may limit health-related information-seeking and influence attention, memory, and decision-making such that positive material is favored over negative information. Grounding our arguments in socioemotional selectivity theory, we consider possible ways to tailor contexts such that disadvantages are avoided.

  18. Computer Managed Instruction: An Application in Teaching Introductory Statistics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hudson, Walter W.

    1985-01-01

    This paper describes a computer managed instruction package for teaching introductory or advanced statistics. The instructional package is described and anecdotal information concerning its performance and student responses to its use over two semesters are given. (Author/BL)

  19. Exophysics--A New Introductory Physics Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mitchell, G. E.

    1976-01-01

    Provides the outline of an introductory college-level physics course which combines astronomy, astrophysics, relativity and communications with a study of civilizations and the conditions necessary for life. Student comments and an informal evaluation of the course are included. (CP)

  20. Educational Software for First Order Logic Semantics in Introductory Logic Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mauco, María Virginia; Ferrante, Enzo; Felice, Laura

    2014-01-01

    Basic courses on logic are common in most computer science curricula. Students often have difficulties in handling formalisms and getting familiar with them. Educational software helps to motivate and improve the teaching-learning processes. Therefore, incorporating these kinds of tools becomes important, because they contribute to gaining…

  1. Developing Student Presentation Skills in an Introductory-Level Chemistry Course with Audio Technology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fredricks, Susan M.; Tierney, John; Bodek, Matthew; Fredericks, Margaret

    2016-01-01

    The objective of this article is to explain and provide rubrics for science and communication faculty as a means to help nonscience students, in basic science classes, understand that proper communication and presentation skills are a necessity in all courses and future walks of life.

  2. Figuratively Speaking: Analogies in the Accounting Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tucker, Basil P.

    2017-01-01

    One of the foundational subjects comprising most Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs is an introductory accounting course, in which students are exposed to the study of financial and management accounting at a basic level. For many students accounting is arguably the most feared subject in the MBA program. Although some students…

  3. Engaging Students in Social Judgment Theory

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mallard, Jessica

    2010-01-01

    Social Judgment Theory is a way to explain when persuasive messages are most likely to succeed and how people make judgments about them. This theory is often covered in communication theory and persuasion courses, but is also applicable when discussing persuasion in basic speech and introductory communication courses. Social Judgment Theory…

  4. Empirical Evidence or Intuition? An Activity Involving the Scientific Method

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Overway, Ken

    2007-01-01

    Students need to have basic understanding of scientific method during their introductory science classes and for this purpose an activity was devised which involved a game based on famous Monty Hall game problem. This particular activity allowed students to banish or confirm their intuition based on empirical evidence.

  5. Business and Child Care Handbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Collins, Natalie Madgy; And Others

    Intended as a resource for corporate and industrial managers, employee groups, and others, this handbook provides basic discussion of child care and offers a guide for decision making. After the first chapter's brief introductory discussion of possible motives for becoming involved with child care, chapter 2 analyzes the phenomenon of the working…

  6. A Simple Mechanical Model for the Isotropic Harmonic Oscillator

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nita, Gelu M.

    2010-01-01

    A constrained elastic pendulum is proposed as a simple mechanical model for the isotropic harmonic oscillator. The conceptual and mathematical simplicity of this model recommends it as an effective pedagogical tool in teaching basic physics concepts at advanced high school and introductory undergraduate course levels. (Contains 2 figures.)

  7. Mechanical Drawing and Design.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mikulsky, Marilyn; McEnaney, Walter K.

    A syllabus is provided for a comprehensive foundation course in mechanical drawing and design for grades 9, 10, 11, or 12 that is prerequisite to advanced elective courses. Introductory materials include course objectives, an overview of basic concepts, and guidelines for implementation. Brief discussions of and suggestions for the areas of design…

  8. Great Mysteries of the Earth: A New Geology Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cazeau, Charles J.; Stoiber, George

    1976-01-01

    Describes an introductory undergraduate geology course which investigates geology-related, current topics of wide interest, such as the Bermuda Triangle, UFO's, etc. Purpose of the course is to show students how to sift fact from fiction, exercise basic logic, and critically analyze current writings of popular sensationalists. (SL)

  9. Outdoor Biology Instructional Strategies Trial Edition. Set I.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fairwell, Kay, Ed.; And Others

    The Outdoor Biology Instructional Strategies (OBIS) Trial Edition Set I contains 24 varied activities which make use of crafts, simulations, and basic investigative techniques to provide introductory learning experiences in outdoor biology for children aged 10 to 15. The individual water-resistant folio for each activity includes biological…

  10. Who Needs Plants? Science (Experimental).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ropeik, Bernard H.; Kleinman, David Z.

    The basic elective course in introductory botany is designed for secondary students who probably will not continue study in plant science. The objectives of the course are to help the student 1) identify, compare and differentiate types of plants; 2) identify plant cell structures; 3) distinguish between helpful and harmful plants; 4) predict…

  11. Institutional Ethics and Values. The Fundamentals. Board Basics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Corts, Thomas E.

    1998-01-01

    This booklet offers trustees of institutions of higher education a guide to the ethical principles upon which the institution should base its decisions. An introductory section offers actual examples of unethical decisions by single officials for which the institution was responsible. The following sections each explain a principle and offer…

  12. Ohio Workplace Education Resource Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Northwest ABLE Resource Center, Toledo, OH.

    This manual is designed for adult basic education programs to use as a resource for workplace education (WE). It begins with a section of introductory materials, including a WE definition, scope of work, and survey results. The next section contains a program profile; director/coordinator profile; instructor profiles; Ohio ABLE workplace site…

  13. A Comprehensive General Chemistry Demonstration

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sweeder, Ryan D.; Jeffery, Kathleen A.

    2013-01-01

    This article describes the use of a comprehensive demonstration suitable for a high school or first-year undergraduate introductory chemistry class. The demonstration involves placing a burning candle in a container adjacent to a beaker containing a basic solution with indicator. After adding a lid, the candle will extinguish and the produced…

  14. Curriculum Integration versus Educating for Global Citizenship: A (Disciplinary) View from the International Relations Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gordon, Dennis R.

    2014-01-01

    This paper offers a view from the classroom and departmental chair's office, using the teaching of introductory "International Relations" and some basic theoretical foundations of the field, "Realism," "Cosmopolitanism," and "Constructivism," to explore how study abroad can balance calls to educate for…

  15. A Phytase Enzyme-Based Biochemistry Practical Particularly Suited to Students Undertaking Courses in Biotechnology and Environmental Science

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Boyce, Angela; Casey, Anne; Walsh, Gary

    2004-01-01

    Courses in introductory biochemistry invariably encompass basic principles of enzymology, with reinforcement of lecture-based material in appropriate laboratory practicals. Students undertaking practical classes are more enthusiastic, and generally display improved performance, when the specific experiments undertaken show direct relevance to…

  16. Ballistocardiography in the Physics Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Paul, Prabasaj; Symes, Laurel B.

    2008-01-01

    Ballistocardiograms (BCGs) are graphical representations of the recoil from the pumping action of the heart. Introductory mechanics and a basic knowledge of the circulatory system are sufficient to understand the key features of a BCG. BCGs with adequate detail for instructional purposes may be produced easily and rapidly using hardware (a force…

  17. Welfare Triangles and Economic Policy Analysis.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    James, Stephen

    1989-01-01

    Shows how the concepts of consumer's surplus and producer's surplus can be related to basic welfare economics. Provides illustrations of the ways in which these concepts can be applied in introductory economics courses. Examines the social cost of monopoly, the tax burden, free trade, tariffs, and the English Channel Tunnel. (KO)

  18. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: Introduction

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Twohig, Michael P.

    2012-01-01

    This is the introductory article to a special series in Cognitive and Behavioral Practice on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Instead of each article herein reviewing the basics of ACT, this article contains that review. This article provides a description of where ACT fits within the larger category of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT):…

  19. Exceptional Longevity: An Introduction to the Iowa Centenarian Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Martin, Peter; Deshpande-Kamat, Neha; Margrett, Jennifer A.; Franke, Warren; Garasky, Steven

    2012-01-01

    The primary objective of the Iowa Centenarian Study is to further our understanding of determinants of exceptional longevity above and beyond health outcomes, particularly in rural environments. This introductory article provides a general overview of the study, its methodology and basic descriptive results. One hundred and fifty-two centenarians…

  20. CBE: The Right Angle for Learning.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seitz, Fred

    Designed for instructors at Beaufort Technical College (BTC) in South Carolina, this handbook provides a brief guide to competency-based education (CBE) and to the available resources at the college for assistance. Section 1 offers introductory comments on the concept of quality control and the five basic components of educational quality control.…

  1. Creating a Successful Affiliated Foundation. Foundation Relations. Board Basics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hedgepeth, Royster C.

    1999-01-01

    This booklet for trustees of institutions of higher education offers guidelines for the creation of effective affiliated foundations. An introductory section notes the increased use of such foundations by public colleges and universities for institutional fund-raising and management of property and endowments. The booklet finds that successful…

  2. Orthodox Christian Education in Modern Russia: Structure and Content

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sklyarova, T. V.

    2018-01-01

    The article describes Orthodox Christian education as a kind of religious education. It offers a definition of Orthodox Christian education and characterizes its structure in modern Russia. It proposes a model for the Orthodox Christian education system, including introductory, basic, professional, and advanced academic levels. The author…

  3. Millennials Need Training Too: Using Communication Technology to Facilitate Teamwork

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Charsky, Dennis; Kish, Mary L.; Briskin, Jessica; Hathaway, Sarah; Walsh, Kira; Barajas, Nicolas

    2009-01-01

    Human Communication in Organizations (HCO) is an introductory college course at Ithaca College, typically taken in the freshman year, in which students from a wide variety of majors examine the basic concepts, issues, and uses of organizational communication including communication theory, superior-subordinate and peer relationships, leadership,…

  4. Industrial Arts Curriculum Guide for Power Technology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Connecticut State Dept. of Education, Hartford. Div. of Vocational Education.

    This curriculum guide provides topic outlines and objectives for units in a three-level/-course Power Technology program. Introductory materials are objectives for industrial education and for power technology and list of general safety rules. Units contained in Level I, Power Technology, are History of Power, Basic Machines, Forms of Power, Power…

  5. Chemical Mixtures Health Risk Assessment: Overview of Exposure Assessment, Whole Mixtures Assessments; Basic Concepts

    EPA Science Inventory

    This problems-based, half-day, introductory workshop focuses on methods to assess health risks posed by exposures to chemical mixtures in the environment. Chemical mixtures health risk assessment methods continue to be developed and evolve to address concerns over health risks f...

  6. A Simple Relativistic Bohr Atom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Terzis, Andreas F.

    2008-01-01

    A simple concise relativistic modification of the standard Bohr model for hydrogen-like atoms with circular orbits is presented. As the derivation requires basic knowledge of classical and relativistic mechanics, it can be taught in standard courses in modern physics and introductory quantum mechanics. In addition, it can be shown in a class that…

  7. Teaching Business German Basics on the Second Year Level.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rockwood, Heidi M.

    Most college curricula in business German are oriented to third- and fourth-year German students. Development of a course in introductory business German designed for the second year of language instruction required careful selection of materials and activities. Texts were selected for their comprehensibility for students with no business…

  8. Reducing Abstraction When Learning Graph Theory

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hazzan, Orit; Hadar, Irit

    2005-01-01

    This article presents research on students' understanding of basic concepts in Graph Theory. Students' understanding is analyzed through the lens of the theoretical framework of reducing abstraction (Hazzan, 1999). As it turns out, in spite of the relative simplicity of the concepts that are introduced in the introductory part of a traditional…

  9. Kids Can Make a Difference! Environmental Science Activities.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dashefsky, H. Steven

    This book of more than 160 environmental science activities is designed to help students understand environmental issues, ask questions, and find solutions to the problems. Introductory sections address: (1) the nature of major global problems and a history of environmental concern; (2) basic environmental science terminology and scientific study…

  10. Eighth Grade Social Studies. An Experimental Program in Geography and Anthropology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hanson, James; And Others

    GRADES OR AGES: Grade 8. SUBJECT MATTER: Geography and Anthropology. ORGANIZATION AND PHYSICAL APPEARANCE: The introductory material includes descriptions of geography and anthropology as disciplines, the basic course objectives, techniques for evaluating objectives and a student self-evaluation form. The guide covers six units: 1) "What Kind of…

  11. A Field-Based Technique for Teaching about Habitat Fragmentation and Edge Effects

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Resler, Lynn M.; Kolivras, Korine N.

    2009-01-01

    This article presents a field technique that exposes students to the indirect effects of habitat fragmentation on plant distributions through studying edge effects. This assignment, suited for students in an introductory biogeography or resource geography class, increases students' knowledge of basic biogeographic concepts such as environmental…

  12. Introductory Linear Regression Programs in Undergraduate Chemistry.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gale, Robert J.

    1982-01-01

    Presented are simple programs in BASIC and FORTRAN to apply the method of least squares. They calculate gradients and intercepts and express errors as standard deviations. An introduction of undergraduate students to such programs in a chemistry class is reviewed, and issues instructors should be aware of are noted. (MP)

  13. Economic Issues in Mass Communication Industries.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rosse, James N.; Dertouzos, James N.

    A general discussion covering both the common problems and features of the full range of the mass media industries, and some economic notions central to understanding them, opens this report, followed by introductory essays for individual industries and consideration of public policy issues. The basic economic considerations common to the field…

  14. Toward a Factor Analytic Definition of Academic Relevance

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Permut, Steven E.

    1974-01-01

    Underlying factor structure of 10 concepts rated by 67 students in an introductory advertising course was examined. Dimensions of relevance were found to conform to results reported by Menges and Trumpeter (1971) suggesting the potential for a university of basic dimensions of educational relevance across diverse fields of learning. (Author/RC)

  15. Linking Multiple Databases: Term Project Using "Sentences" DBMS.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    King, Ronald S.; Rainwater, Stephen B.

    This paper describes a methodology for use in teaching an introductory Database Management System (DBMS) course. Students master basic database concepts through the use of a multiple component project implemented in both relational and associative data models. The associative data model is a new approach for designing multi-user, Web-enabled…

  16. Math 3008--Developmental Mathematics II. Course Outline.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New York Inst. of Tech., Old Westbury.

    This document contains the course syllabus and 12 independent practice modules for an introductory college algebra course designed to develop student proficiency in the basic algebraic skills. This is designed as the second of a two-semester sequence. Topics include performing operations with radicals and exponents; learning to solve equations;…

  17. Math 3007--Developmental Mathematics I. Course Outline.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New York Inst. of Tech., Old Westbury.

    This document contains the course syllabus and 12 independent practice modules for an introductory college algebra course designed to develop student proficiency in the basic algebraic skills. This course is designed as the first of a two-semester sequence. Topics include operations with signed numbers; simple operations on monomials and…

  18. Math 3013--Developmental Mathematics I and II. Course Outline.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New York Inst. of Tech., Old Westbury.

    This document contains the course syllabus and 12 independent practice modules for an introductory college algebra course that requires some previous knowledge of algebra and the ability to work at a rapid pace. Topics include the basic operations with signed integers; fractions; decimals; literal expressions; algebraic fractions; radicals;…

  19. The Immune System Game

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Work, Kirsten A.; Gibbs, Melissa A.; Friedman, Erich J.

    2015-01-01

    We describe a card game that helps introductory biology students understand the basics of the immune response to pathogens. Students simulate the steps of the immune response with cards that represent the pathogens and the cells and molecules mobilized by the immune system. In the process, they learn the similarities and differences between the…

  20. Guide to Direct Consolidation Loans.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Department of Education, Washington, DC.

    Intended for financial aid counselors, this document provides guidelines to the Federal Direct Consolidation Loan Program for borrowers who are in school, as well as those in repayment, or in default. An introductory section explains the basics of the consolidated loan program, loan categories, and interest rates. Next, standards for borrower…

  1. Introduction to Electrical Science.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    LePage, Wilbur R.; Balabanian, Norman

    This text (in mimeographed form) was developed under contract with the United States Office of Education and is intended as material of a first course in the electrical engineering sequence. Introductory concepts such as charge, fields, potential difference, current, and some of the basic physical laws are presented in Chapter I. Subsequent…

  2. Imaginative Approaches to Teaching the Basic Public Speaking Course: Roundtable Discussion.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Orin G.

    This paper presents 10 extemporaneous presentation assignments which are designed to review, test, and give students practice on every aspect necessary to become an effective public speaker in many situations. The paper begins with a description of the introductory communication course requirements and guidelines for grading of practice…

  3. Robotics for Computer Scientists: What's the Big Idea?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Touretzky, David S.

    2013-01-01

    Modern robots, like today's smartphones, are complex devices with intricate software systems. Introductory robot programming courses must evolve to reflect this reality, by teaching students to make use of the sophisticated tools their robots provide rather than reimplementing basic algorithms. This paper focuses on teaching with Tekkotsu, an open…

  4. Adult-Literacy Education in Jamaica.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Miller, Harry; And Others

    Some 42% of Jamaica's adult population was not functionally literate in 1962--figures that precipitated expansion in adult literacy and Basic Education programs as described in this survey report. Following a seven-page introductory historical profile, the authors note attempts made to assess adult illiteracy, such as the 1975 survey that found…

  5. Cafe Data

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    DePaolo, Concetta A.; Robinson, David F.

    2011-01-01

    In this paper we present time series data collected from a cafe run by business students at a Midwestern public university. The data were collected over a ten-week period during the spring semester of 2010. These data can be used in introductory courses to illustrate basic concepts of time series and forecasting, including trend, seasonality, and…

  6. Introductory Programming Subject in European Higher Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Aleksic, Veljko; Ivanovic, Mirjana

    2016-01-01

    Programming is one of the basic subjects in most informatics, computer science mathematics and technical faculties' curricula. Integrated overview of the models for teaching programming, problems in teaching and suggested solutions were presented in this paper. Research covered current state of 1019 programming subjects in 715 study programmes at…

  7. Thai Basic Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Defense Language Inst., Washington, DC.

    These 10 volumes comprise Lessons 1-80 in an introductory course in Thai. The general format, as presented in the first unit, consists of (1) a question-answer pattern drill, which introduces new grammatical structures, (2) a dialog, containing the new structures and vocabulary, (3) a recombination dialog, presenting the new words and patterns in…

  8. Vector Knowledge of Beginning Physics Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Knight, Randall D.

    1995-01-01

    Presents the Vector Knowledge Test that was designed to see if beginning physics students possess the minimal basic knowledge of vectors that will allow them to proceed with a study of Newtonian mechanics. Concludes that only one-third of the students in a calculus-based introductory course at California Polytechnic had sufficient vector…

  9. Help Increase the Peace, A Youth-Focused Program in Peace Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Morrison, Mary Lee; Austad, Carol Shaw; Cota, Kate

    2011-01-01

    This study investigated specific attitudes and beliefs, related to the concepts of peace education, of participants in an "Introductory, basic help increase the peace program" (HIPP) workshop. Pre- and post-workshop ratings showed significant differences on two important attitudinal variables: first, the importance of being familiar with the…

  10. Should the Introductory Information Systems Course Be Removed from the Business School Curriculum? A Preliminary Investigation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gordon, Gene M.; Chimi, Carl J.

    This paper reports on the results of a preliminary investigation of the extent to which first-year students entering a university during the summer, who enroll in the introductory information systems course in a college of business, meet the requirements for the course upon entrance. A second objective is to recommend a course of action to be…

  11. Student Misconceptions in Introductory Biology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fisher, Kathleen M.; Lipson, Joseph I.

    Defining a "misconception" as an error of translation (transformation, correspondence, interpolation, interpretation) between two different kinds of information which causes students to have incorrect expectations, a Taxonomy of Errors has been developed to examine student misconceptions in an introductory biology course for science…

  12. Improving Student Question Classification

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Heiner, Cecily; Zachary, Joseph L.

    2009-01-01

    Students in introductory programming classes often articulate their questions and information needs incompletely. Consequently, the automatic classification of student questions to provide automated tutorial responses is a challenging problem. This paper analyzes 411 questions from an introductory Java programming course by reducing the natural…

  13. Integration of a Low-Cost Introductory Ultrasound Curriculum Into Existing Procedural Skills Education for Preclinical Medical Students.

    PubMed

    Maloney, Lauren; Zach, Kristen; Page, Christopher; Tewari, Neera; Tito, Matthew; Seidman, Peggy

    2017-02-01

    We evaluated integration of an introductory ultrasound curriculum into our existing mandatory procedural skills program for preclinical medical students. Phantoms consisting of olives, pimento olives, and grapes embedded in opaque gelatin were developed. Four classes encouraged progressive refinement of phantom-scanning and object identification skills. Students improved their ability to identify hidden objects, although each object type achieved a statistically significant improvement in correct identification at different time points. The total phantom cost per student was $0.76. Our results suggest that short repeated experiences scanning simple, low-cost ultrasound phantoms confer basic ultrasound skills. © 2016 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

  14. Toward University Modeling Instruction—Biology: Adapting Curricular Frameworks from Physics to Biology

    PubMed Central

    Manthey, Seth; Brewe, Eric

    2013-01-01

    University Modeling Instruction (UMI) is an approach to curriculum and pedagogy that focuses instruction on engaging students in building, validating, and deploying scientific models. Modeling Instruction has been successfully implemented in both high school and university physics courses. Studies within the physics education research (PER) community have identified UMI's positive impacts on learning gains, equity, attitudinal shifts, and self-efficacy. While the success of this pedagogical approach has been recognized within the physics community, the use of models and modeling practices is still being developed for biology. Drawing from the existing research on UMI in physics, we describe the theoretical foundations of UMI and how UMI can be adapted to include an emphasis on models and modeling for undergraduate introductory biology courses. In particular, we discuss our ongoing work to develop a framework for the first semester of a two-semester introductory biology course sequence by identifying the essential basic models for an introductory biology course sequence. PMID:23737628

  15. Toward university modeling instruction--biology: adapting curricular frameworks from physics to biology.

    PubMed

    Manthey, Seth; Brewe, Eric

    2013-06-01

    University Modeling Instruction (UMI) is an approach to curriculum and pedagogy that focuses instruction on engaging students in building, validating, and deploying scientific models. Modeling Instruction has been successfully implemented in both high school and university physics courses. Studies within the physics education research (PER) community have identified UMI's positive impacts on learning gains, equity, attitudinal shifts, and self-efficacy. While the success of this pedagogical approach has been recognized within the physics community, the use of models and modeling practices is still being developed for biology. Drawing from the existing research on UMI in physics, we describe the theoretical foundations of UMI and how UMI can be adapted to include an emphasis on models and modeling for undergraduate introductory biology courses. In particular, we discuss our ongoing work to develop a framework for the first semester of a two-semester introductory biology course sequence by identifying the essential basic models for an introductory biology course sequence.

  16. Layering the Introductory History of Europe Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Waddy, Helena

    1997-01-01

    Describes an introductory undergraduate survey course on European history that incorporates three interrelated sections: constitutional government in Europe, the American revolution, and the French Revolution. The instruction emphasizes the interconnectedness among the events and includes repetition of key ideas and information. Discusses the…

  17. International Symposium on Harmonization of Education and Training Programmes in Information Science, Librarianship and Archival Studies. (Paris, France, October 8-12, 1984). Final Report and Introductory Statement.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Paris (France). General Information Programme.

    This two-part document comprises an introductory statement and final report of a meeting that promoted the harmonized development, at regional and national levels, of theoretical and practical training programs for all kinds of information specialists. The meeting was attended by 19 experts from 17 countries--Brazil, Ethiopia, France, India,…

  18. Bioinformatics education in high school: implications for promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers.

    PubMed

    Kovarik, Dina N; Patterson, Davis G; Cohen, Carolyn; Sanders, Elizabeth A; Peterson, Karen A; Porter, Sandra G; Chowning, Jeanne Ting

    2013-01-01

    We investigated the effects of our Bio-ITEST teacher professional development model and bioinformatics curricula on cognitive traits (awareness, engagement, self-efficacy, and relevance) in high school teachers and students that are known to accompany a developing interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. The program included best practices in adult education and diverse resources to empower teachers to integrate STEM career information into their classrooms. The introductory unit, Using Bioinformatics: Genetic Testing, uses bioinformatics to teach basic concepts in genetics and molecular biology, and the advanced unit, Using Bioinformatics: Genetic Research, utilizes bioinformatics to study evolution and support student research with DNA barcoding. Pre-post surveys demonstrated significant growth (n = 24) among teachers in their preparation to teach the curricula and infuse career awareness into their classes, and these gains were sustained through the end of the academic year. Introductory unit students (n = 289) showed significant gains in awareness, relevance, and self-efficacy. While these students did not show significant gains in engagement, advanced unit students (n = 41) showed gains in all four cognitive areas. Lessons learned during Bio-ITEST are explored in the context of recommendations for other programs that wish to increase student interest in STEM careers.

  19. On-line and Mobil Learning Activities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ackerman, S. A.; Whittaker, T. M.; Jasmin, T.; Mooney, M. E.

    2012-12-01

    Introductory college-level science courses for non-majors are critical gateways to imparting not only discipline-specific information, but also the basics of the scientific method and how science influences society. They are also indispensable for student success to degree. On-line, web-based homework (whether on computers or mobile devices) is a rapidly growing use of the Internet and is becoming a major component of instruction in science, replacing delayed feedback from a few major exams. Web delivery and grading of traditional textbook-type questions is equally effective as having students write them out for hand grading, as measured by student performance on conceptual and problem solving exams. During this presentation we will demonstrate some of the interactive on-line activities used to teach concepts and how scientists approach problem solving, and how these activities have impacted student learning. Evaluation of the activities, including formative and summative, will be discussed and provide evidence that these interactive activities significantly enhance understanding of introductory meteorological concepts in a college-level science course. More advanced interactive activities are also used in our courses for department majors, some of these will be discussed and demonstrated. Bring your mobile devices to play along! Here is an example on teaching contouring: http://profhorn.aos.wisc.edu/wxwise/contour/index.html

  20. Residents' perceptions of simulation as a clinical learning approach.

    PubMed

    Walsh, Catharine M; Garg, Ankit; Ng, Stella L; Goyal, Fenny; Grover, Samir C

    2017-02-01

    Simulation is increasingly being integrated into medical education; however, there is little research into trainees' perceptions of this learning modality. We elicited trainees' perceptions of simulation-based learning, to inform how simulation is developed and applied to support training. We conducted an instrumental qualitative case study entailing 36 semi-structured one-hour interviews with 12 residents enrolled in an introductory simulation-based course. Trainees were interviewed at three time points: pre-course, post-course, and 4-6 weeks later. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive analytic approach. Residents' perceptions of simulation included: 1) simulation serves pragmatic purposes; 2) simulation provides a safe space; 3) simulation presents perils and pitfalls; and 4) optimal design for simulation: integration and tension. Key findings included residents' markedly narrow perception of simulation's capacity to support non-technical skills development or its use beyond introductory learning. Trainees' learning expectations of simulation were restricted. Educators should critically attend to the way they present simulation to learners as, based on theories of problem-framing, trainees' a priori perceptions may delimit the focus of their learning experiences. If they view simulation as merely a replica of real cases for the purpose of practicing basic skills, they may fail to benefit from the full scope of learning opportunities afforded by simulation.

  1. Residents’ perceptions of simulation as a clinical learning approach

    PubMed Central

    Walsh, Catharine M.; Garg, Ankit; Ng, Stella L.; Goyal, Fenny; Grover, Samir C.

    2017-01-01

    Background Simulation is increasingly being integrated into medical education; however, there is little research into trainees’ perceptions of this learning modality. We elicited trainees’ perceptions of simulation-based learning, to inform how simulation is developed and applied to support training. Methods We conducted an instrumental qualitative case study entailing 36 semi-structured one-hour interviews with 12 residents enrolled in an introductory simulation-based course. Trainees were interviewed at three time points: pre-course, post-course, and 4–6 weeks later. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive analytic approach. Results Residents’ perceptions of simulation included: 1) simulation serves pragmatic purposes; 2) simulation provides a safe space; 3) simulation presents perils and pitfalls; and 4) optimal design for simulation: integration and tension. Key findings included residents’ markedly narrow perception of simulation’s capacity to support non-technical skills development or its use beyond introductory learning. Conclusion Trainees’ learning expectations of simulation were restricted. Educators should critically attend to the way they present simulation to learners as, based on theories of problem-framing, trainees’ a priori perceptions may delimit the focus of their learning experiences. If they view simulation as merely a replica of real cases for the purpose of practicing basic skills, they may fail to benefit from the full scope of learning opportunities afforded by simulation. PMID:28344719

  2. A GeoWall with Physics and Astronomy Applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dukes, Phillip; Bruton, Dan

    2008-03-01

    A GeoWall is a passive stereoscopic projection system that can be used by students, teachers, and researchers for visualization of the structure and dynamics of three-dimensional systems and data. The type of system described here adequately provides 3-D visualization in natural color for large or small groups of viewers. The name ``GeoWall'' derives from its initial development to visualize data in the geosciences.1 An early GeoWall system was developed by Paul Morin at the electronic visualization laboratory at the University of Minnesota and was applied in an introductory geology course in spring of 2001. Since that time, several stereoscopic media, which are applicable to introductory-level physics and astronomy classes, have been developed and released into the public domain. In addition to the GeoWall's application in the classroom, there is considerable value in its use as part of a general science outreach program. In this paper we briefly describe the theory of operation of stereoscopic projection and the basic necessary components of a GeoWall system. Then we briefly describe how we are using a GeoWall as an instructional tool for the classroom and informal astronomy education and in research. Finally, we list sources for several of the free software media in physics and astronomy available for use with a GeoWall system.

  3. Bioinformatics Education in High School: Implications for Promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Careers

    PubMed Central

    Kovarik, Dina N.; Patterson, Davis G.; Cohen, Carolyn; Sanders, Elizabeth A.; Peterson, Karen A.; Porter, Sandra G.; Chowning, Jeanne Ting

    2013-01-01

    We investigated the effects of our Bio-ITEST teacher professional development model and bioinformatics curricula on cognitive traits (awareness, engagement, self-efficacy, and relevance) in high school teachers and students that are known to accompany a developing interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. The program included best practices in adult education and diverse resources to empower teachers to integrate STEM career information into their classrooms. The introductory unit, Using Bioinformatics: Genetic Testing, uses bioinformatics to teach basic concepts in genetics and molecular biology, and the advanced unit, Using Bioinformatics: Genetic Research, utilizes bioinformatics to study evolution and support student research with DNA barcoding. Pre–post surveys demonstrated significant growth (n = 24) among teachers in their preparation to teach the curricula and infuse career awareness into their classes, and these gains were sustained through the end of the academic year. Introductory unit students (n = 289) showed significant gains in awareness, relevance, and self-efficacy. While these students did not show significant gains in engagement, advanced unit students (n = 41) showed gains in all four cognitive areas. Lessons learned during Bio-ITEST are explored in the context of recommendations for other programs that wish to increase student interest in STEM careers. PMID:24006393

  4. The Inclusion of Disability in Introductory Sociology Textbooks.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taub, Diane E.; Fanflik, Patricia L.

    2000-01-01

    Investigates the portrayal of disability in 25 introductory sociology textbooks that were published between 1996 and 1998. Focuses on textual representation and pictorial depiction of individuals with disabilities using content analysis. Reveals that the textbooks provide a limited amount of information on disability. (CMK)

  5. Centrifugation. Sludge Treatment and Disposal Course #166. Instructor's Guide [and] Student Workbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Best, Richard A.

    An introductory description of the use of centrifuges in the process of volume reduction is provided in this lesson. Three basic centrifuges, their theory of operation, quality of cake and centrate, and operational control testing are discussed. The lesson includes an instructor's guide and student workbook. The instructor's guide contains a…

  6. From Syncitium to Regulated Pump: A Cardiac Muscle Cellular Update

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Korzick, Donna H.

    2011-01-01

    The primary purpose of this article is to present a basic overview of some key teaching concepts that should be considered for inclusion in an six- to eight-lecture introductory block on the regulation of cardiac performance for graduate students. Within the context of cardiac excitation-contraction coupling, this review incorporates information…

  7. Modeling Human Serum Albumin Tertiary Structure to Teach Upper-Division Chemistry Students Bioinformatics and Homology Modeling Basics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Petrovic, Dus?an; Zlatovic´, Mario

    2015-01-01

    A homology modeling laboratory experiment has been developed for an introductory molecular modeling course for upper-division undergraduate chemistry students. With this experiment, students gain practical experience in homology model preparation and assessment as well as in protein visualization using the educational version of PyMOL…

  8. Homeostatic Systems--Mechanisms for Survival. Science IV.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pfeiffer, Carl H.

    The two student notebooks in this set provide the basic outline and assignments for the fourth and last year of a senior high school unified science program which builds on the technical third year course, Science IIIA (see SE 012 149). An introductory section considers the problems of survival inherent in living systems, matter-energy…

  9. Language Development Resources for Bilingual Bicultural Education: An Aid to Primary Teachers of Mexican American Children.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dissemination and Assessment Center for Bilingual Education, Austin, TX.

    This resource guide is designed as an aid to primary teachers of Mexican-American children. Besides including basic introductory material, the volume provides suggestions for parent involvement, classroom learning activity centers, and extensive resource materials. Classroom learning activity centers include: Art, Book, Communication, Discussion,…

  10. Engineering Education at a New Public University in Brazil: First Students' Contact with Engineering Methods

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Romero, Jesus Franklin A.; Leite, Patricia; Mantovani, Gerson L.; Lanfredi, Alexandre J. C.; Martins-Filho, Luiz S.

    2011-01-01

    This paper describes the experience of an introductory discipline to the engineering curricula at the Brazilian Federal University of ABC (UFABC). The university offers a common basic curriculum that must be accomplished by every student and can be followed by professionalising courses. The discipline "Introduction to Engineering"…

  11. Narrowing the Skills Gap: Workplace Literacy Programs in Canada. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ottawa Univ. (Ontario).

    This report documents, in case study format, eight workplace literacy programs in Canada. Introductory materials highlight conclusions and discuss reasons for undertaking the project to document the Canadian experience in basic skills training from the perspective of the employer and employee and program design. Each case study or program profile…

  12. Whet Students' Appetites with Food-Related Drafting Project

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pucillo, John M.

    2010-01-01

    Students sometimes find introductory drafting and design a boring subject. They must learn the basic skills necessary for drafting and architecture and this may require repetition in order to reinforce those skills. One way to keep students interested is to have them draw objects they encounter in their own lives instead of abstract machine parts…

  13. Who Do I Look Like? Diversity in Self, Family, and Others

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mensah, Felicia Moore

    2010-01-01

    In this introductory, hands-on, multicultural genetics lesson for elementary students, the author describes an activity used to engage learners in understanding diversity in self, family, and others. Students make connections between traits within their family and learn a few basic concepts about inheritance. At the end of the lesson, the author…

  14. Development and Use of a Conceptual Survey in Introductory Quantum Physics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wuttiprom, Sura; Sharma, Manjula Devi; Johnston, Ian D.; Chitaree, Ratchapak; Soankwan, Chernchok

    2009-01-01

    Conceptual surveys have become increasingly popular at many levels to probe various aspects of science education research such as measuring student understanding of basic concepts and assessing the effectiveness of pedagogical material. The aim of this study was to construct a valid and reliable multiple-choice conceptual survey to investigate…

  15. Introduction to Drywall. Instructor Edition. Introduction to Construction Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oklahoma State Dept. of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater. Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center.

    This instructor's guide contains the materials required to teach a competency-based introductory course in drywalling to students who have chosen to explore careers in construction. It contains three units: drywall materials, drywall tools, and applied skills. Each instructional unit includes some or all of the basic components of a unit of…

  16. Description of an Introductory Learning Strategies Course for the Job Skills Educational Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Murphy, Debra Ann; Derry, Sharon J.

    The Job Skills Educational Program (JSEP), currently under development for the Army Research Institute, embeds learner strategies training within the context of a basic skills computer-assisted instruction curriculum. The curriculum is designed for low-ability soldiers, and consists largely of instruction in the domain of intellectual skills. An…

  17. COLUG: Chicago Online Users Introductory Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Moore, Alexandra L., Ed.; Pyrce, Sharon R., Ed.

    Intended to serve as an introduction to online searching in the Chicago area, the guide answers these basic questions for those considering going online for the first time: what is online searching, starting out online, local training for online searching, how to choose a terminal, 1200 baud equipment selection, how to prepare for and evaluate a…

  18. Curriculum Outline for Introduction to Engineering Chemistry. First Edition. Review Cycle-Annual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schlenker, Richard M.

    This curriculum outline consists of behavioral objectives (called terminal and enabling objectives) for Introduction to Engineering Chemistry, a one-semester, post-secondary course consisting of four 1-hour lectures each week. Course goal is to introduce marine engineering students to the rudiments of basic/introductory inorganic chemistry. The…

  19. Development of Oral Health Training for Rural and Remote Aboriginal Health Workers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pacza, Tom; Steele, Lesley; Tennant, Marc

    2001-01-01

    A culturally appropriate oral health training course tailored to the needs of rural Aboriginal health workers was developed in Western Australia. The course is taught in three modules ranging from introductory material to comprehensive practical and theoretical knowledge of basic dental health care. The program encourages Aboriginal health workers…

  20. Basic Strategies in Blueprint Reading for United Technologies-Automotive.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shuler, Jacqueline

    This document contains the instructional materials developed and presented in a 39-hour course for employees of an automotive assembly plant. The course is an introductory look at blueprint reading using blueprints similar to those used at the company. Worksheets and tests relating to the blueprints are included. The course covers an introduction,…

  1. Readers on the Prowl: Florida Library Youth Program Manual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Margie, Comp.; Cook, Ann, Comp.; O'Reilly, Lesley, Comp.

    This manual is designed to accompany the 1999 Florida Library Youth Program, focusing on the theme of the library as a destination. This introductory section of the manual contains: an overview of the program that discusses basic philosophy, outreach to children in poverty, age and ability levels, and materials and incentives; a schedule of…

  2. Radio/Television Repair. Trade and Industrial Education Course of Study.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beaumont, George J.; And Others

    This guide, intended to be used in teaching and learning, should enable students to master basic skills, acquire knowledge, and develop favorable attitudes in the areas emphasized. Contents of the guide are organized as follows: (1) Introductory section giving the course philosophy, general course objectives, instructional plan, and bibliography,…

  3. International Drug Use; Research Issues 23.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Austin, Gregory A., Ed.; And Others

    This collection of resources contains 95 summaries of research conducted on drug use in countries other than the United States, and is designed to be an introductory set of readings which provide a basic familiarity with drug use patterns in foreign countries. The first section contains 23 studies on the United Kingdom while the second section…

  4. Small Schools Curriculum: Physical Education, 7-12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hartl, David, Ed.; Hartl, Doris, Ed.

    Two self-contained sections within the document (one for grades 7-8, the other for grades 9-12) present the Washington Small Schools secondary physical education curriculum. Activities are written to supplement or extend a basic text by presenting a game, simulation or activity to carry out a learning objective. Identical introductory materials…

  5. Introduction to Therapeutic and Counseling Principles: A Manual for Human Service Workers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Alaska State Dept. of Health and Social Services, Juneau. Div. of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities.

    This manual introduces some of the essential principles of counseling. It is geared toward the training and education of those who have not had significant prior counseling experiences and is not comprehensive. These topics are discussed, focusing on basic, introductory material: (1) general principles of human behavior and motivation including…

  6. Receivers and Transmitters. Electronics Module 6. Instructor's Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Everett, Jim

    This module is the sixth of 10 modules in the competency-based electronics series. Introductory materials include a listing of competencies addressed in the module and a cross-reference table of instructional materials. Two instructional units cover: (1) AM/FM transmitter and receiver basics; and (2) satellite systems, antennas, and analyzers.…

  7. International Seminar on Childhood, Culture and Community (June 17-27, 1979).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mount Carmel International Training Centre for Community Services, Haifa (Israel).

    This report provides abridged versions of participants' statements, panel discussions, and lectures given at the International Seminar on Childhood, Culture and Community held at Haifa, Israel, from June 17 to June 27, 1979. The interrelationship between childhood, culture, and community was the topic of the introductory lecture. Basic needs that…

  8. The Introductory Anthropology Course: A Multi-Track Approach for Community College Instruction

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Foster, Daniel J.

    1976-01-01

    Asserts that the most basic types of understandings that students should gain from the beginning anthropology course could be grouped into two broad categories based upon two very important precepts of anthropology: overcoming anthropocentrism and combating ethnocentrism. Using this as a guide, two lists of course objectives were compiled and the…

  9. Teaching Univariate Measures of Location-Using Loss Functions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Paolino, Jon-Paul

    2018-01-01

    This article presents a new method for introductory teaching of the sample mean, median and mode(s) from a univariate dataset. These basic statistical concepts are taught at various levels of education from elementary school curriculums to courses at the tertiary level. These descriptive measures of location can be taught as optimized solutions to…

  10. Electrical. Teacher's Guide. Building Maintenance Units of Instruction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    East Texas State Univ., Commerce. Occupational Curriculum Lab.

    This teaching guide on electrical building maintenance, one in a series of six publications designed for building maintenance instructors in Texas, is designed to give students an understanding of electricity in order to know how to make basic repairs to the electrical systems in a building. Introductory material provides teachers with information…

  11. Introduction to Insulation. Instructor Edition. Introduction to Construction Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oklahoma State Dept. of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater. Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center.

    This instructor's guide contains the materials required to teach a competency-based introductory course in insulation to students who have chosen to explore careers in construction. It contains three units: instructional unit includes some or all of the basic components of a unit of instruction: performance objectives, suggested activities for the…

  12. Enhancing the Educational Value of Experiential Learning: The Business Court Project

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nees, Anne Tucker; Willey, Susan; Mansfield, Nancy R.

    2010-01-01

    A critical element of an introductory course in business law includes an understanding of the court process and dispute resolution. At Georgia State University (GSU), the authors have required undergraduate business students to make a "court visit" to witness this process in action and to broaden students' basic understanding of the role…

  13. Computer Languages: A Practical Guide to the Chief Programming Languages.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sanderson, Peter C.

    All the most commonly-used high-level computer languages are discussed in this book. An introductory discussion provides an overview of the basic components of a digital computer, the general planning of a computer programing problem, and the various types of computer languages. Each chapter is self-contained, emphasizes those features of a…

  14. UNICEF Annual Report, 1998.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    United Nations Children's Fund, New York, NY.

    UNICEF is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to help meet their basic needs, and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential. This report details the accomplishments and activities of UNICEF for the year 1997. The report begins with introductory remarks from the U.N.…

  15. System Analysis in Instructional Programming: The Initial Phases of the Program Construction Process.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bjerstedt, Ake

    A three-volume series describes the construction of a self-instructional system as a work process with three main phases: system analysis, system synthesis, and system modification and evaluation. After an introductory discussion of some basic principles of instructional programing, this first volume focuses on the system analysis phase,…

  16. Monograph On Tensor Notations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sirlin, Samuel W.

    1993-01-01

    Eight-page report describes systems of notation used most commonly to represent tensors of various ranks, with emphasis on tensors in Cartesian coordinate systems. Serves as introductory or refresher text for scientists, engineers, and others familiar with basic concepts of coordinate systems, vectors, and partial derivatives. Indicial tensor, vector, dyadic, and matrix notations, and relationships among them described.

  17. Genetics, Environment, and Behavior: Implications for Educational Policy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ehrman, Lee, Ed.; And Others

    The contents of this book, which presents the fruits of one of a series of conferences organized by the National Research Council Committee on Basic Research in Education, includes 12 papers, with discussion and comments: "Introductory Remarks," Ernst W. Caspari; "Quantitative Aspects of Genetics and Environment in the Determination of Behavior,"…

  18. "Pour nos petits Manitobains," Exposure Package for Grade 2 Basic/Conversational French Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Manitoba Dept. of Education, Winnipeg. Bureau of French Education.

    This guide outlines the Manitoban Department of Education's conversational French-as-a-second-language curriculum for second grade. The program is designed to introduce young children to the French language and culture through the learning of French sounds, vocabulary, and some sentence patterns. An introductory section explains the program's…

  19. Age-Adjustment and Related Epidemiology Rates in Education and Research

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baker, John D.; Kruckman, Laurence; George, Joyce

    2006-01-01

    A quick review of introductory textbooks reveals that while gerontology authors and instructors introduce some aspect of demography and epidemiology data, there is limited focus on age adjustment or other important epidemiology rates. The goal of this paper is to reintroduce a variety of basic epidemiology strategies such as incidence, prevalence,…

  20. Many Ways to Make A Line

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ferrell, Holly

    2006-01-01

    This article describes a middle school introductory art lesson that encourages experimentation as an essential part of the creative process. In this lesson, students experiment with different types of media and tools to create an abstract piece that focuses on the most basic element of art--line. Students focus on line quality, focal points,…

  1. Introduction to Construction Welding. Instructor Edition. Introduction to Construction Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oklahoma State Dept. of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater. Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center.

    This instructor's guide contains the materials required to teach a competency-based introductory course in construction welding to students who have chosen to explore careers in construction. It contains three units: welding materials, welding tools, and applied skills. Each instructional unit includes some or all of the basic components of a unit…

  2. Using Interaction to Teach the Basics of Financial Intermediation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Haggard, K. Stephen

    2009-01-01

    Many professors assume that their courses are exciting and worthy of students' attention. However, students find some finance courses to be more appealing than others. The introductory college course in financial intermediaries and markets often can be found at the bottom of student interest rankings of finance courses due to its complex nature.…

  3. Commentary on A General Curriculum in Mathematics for Colleges.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Committee on the Undergraduate Program in Mathematics, Berkeley, CA.

    This document constitutes a complete revision of the report of the same name first published in 1965. A new list of basic courses is described, consisting of Calculus I, Calculus II, Elementary Linear Algebra, Multivariable Calculus I, Linear Algebra, and Introductory Modern Algebra. Commentaries outline the content and spirit of these courses in…

  4. Agriculture Education SimFarm(TM). Technology Learning Activity. Teacher Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oklahoma State Dept. of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater. Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center.

    This Technology Learning Activity (TLA) for agriculture education in grades 6-10 is designed to help students learn the basic terminology of a farm system while they experience the responsibility of keeping a profitable farm in operation through use of the interactive SimFarm software. Introductory materials provide an overview of technology…

  5. Cold Metalworking and Soldering. Unit A-4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Luft, Vernon D.; Backlund, Paul

    This document is a teacher's guide for a unit in the college metalworking curriculum. It is intended to be used for four weeks of instruction for freshmen as an introductory course in metalworking. The unit is designed to give the student basic knowledge, fundamentals, and skills in metalworking. The unit's objectives are to develop in students…

  6. A Course in Simulation and Demonstration of Humanoid Robot Motion

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Liu, Hsin-Yu; Wang, Wen-June; Wang, Rong-Jyue

    2011-01-01

    An introductory course for humanoid robot motion realization for undergraduate and graduate students is presented in this study. The basic operations of AX-12 motors and the mechanics combination of a 16 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) humanoid robot are presented first. The main concepts of multilink systems, zero moment point (ZMP), and feedback…

  7. Manufacturing Materials and Processes. Grade 11-12. Course #8165 (Semester). Technology Education Course Guide. Industrial Arts/Technology Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    North Carolina State Dept. of Public Instruction, Raleigh. Div. of Vocational Education.

    This guide is intended for use in teaching an introductory course in manufacturing materials and processes. The course centers around four basic materials--metallics, polymers, ceramics, and composites--and seven manufacturing processes--casting, forming, molding, separating, conditioning, assembling, and finishing. Concepts and classifications of…

  8. A Microcomputer Program for Evaluating Pumping Test Results for Confined Aquifers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, Stephen M.

    1986-01-01

    Describes an interactive, self-prompting BASIC program that can be incorporated in introductory and intermediate hydrology courses. Exlains how the program can be used to evaluate pumping test data and also to calculate transmissivity and storativity values of confined aquifers. The program is written for the IBM PC. (ML)

  9. Compass Games: An Introduction to Orienteering Skills

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sension-Hall, Debra

    2011-01-01

    Compasses are useful tools for teaching the basics of navigation. Knowing where you are, where you are going, and how to get there are important facets of outdoor recreation. Compass games are a fun way to teach introductory navigation skills, and this article describes how they can be used as innovative, nontraditional activities in physical…

  10. Writing for Television: Academic Potential Realized: From Course to Program to Major.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sedlak, Valerie F.

    The new Writing for Television Program at Morgan State University (suggested by Warner Brothers at a summer seminar) has added new courses each semester: (1) basic 200-level courses in the "Fundamentals of Writing for Television" and "Introductory Script Writing"; (2) more specialized 300-level courses in "Episodic…

  11. Interdisciplinary Outdoor Education, Behavior of Mealworms.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Knaack, Janey

    This manual is intended for use by second grade teachers as a guide for 35 activities for the study of the behavior of mealworms. The activities are intended to help instill in pupils a joy and excitement for inquiry and experimentation, plus an appreciation and understanding of basic scientific methods. Introductory subject material includes a…

  12. Preparing faculty to teach in a problem-based learning curriculum: the Sherbrooke experience.

    PubMed

    Grand'Maison, P; Des Marchais, J E

    1991-03-01

    Over the last 6 years Sherbrooke Medical School has undertaken a major reform of its undergraduate curriculum. A new student-centred, community-oriented curriculum was implemented in September 1987. Problem-based learning (PBL) is now the main educational method. To adequately prepare teachers for the curriculum a series of faculty development programs in pedagogy were offered: first, a 2-day introductory workshop to initiate teachers into educational principles and their application in the new program; second, a 1-year basic training program in medical pedagogy; third, a 1-day workshop on PBL; and fourth, a comprehensive 3-day training program in PBL tutoring. Over 60% of all full-time teachers attended the introductory program and 80% the tutor training program. The 1-year basic training program was completed by 33% of the faculty members. The implementation of these programs, coupled with a high participation rate, resulted in a more student-centred educational philosophy and a greater interest in medical education. This had a significant impact when the new curriculum was instituted. Lessons learned from the experience are discussed.

  13. Chaotic behaviour of Zeeman machines at introductory course of mechanics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nagy, Péter; Tasnádi, Péter

    2016-05-01

    Investigation of chaotic motions and cooperative systems offers a magnificent opportunity to involve modern physics into the basic course of mechanics taught to engineering students. In the present paper it will be demonstrated that Zeeman Machine can be a versatile and motivating tool for students to get introductory knowledge about chaotic motion via interactive simulations. It works in a relatively simple way and its properties can be understood very easily. Since the machine can be built easily and the simulation of its movement is also simple the experimental investigation and the theoretical description can be connected intuitively. Although Zeeman Machine is known mainly for its quasi-static and catastrophic behaviour, its dynamic properties are also of interest with its typical chaotic features. By means of a periodically driven Zeeman Machine a wide range of chaotic properties of the simple systems can be demonstrated such as bifurcation diagrams, chaotic attractors, transient chaos and so on. The main goal of this paper is the presentation of an interactive learning material for teaching the basic features of the chaotic systems through the investigation of the Zeeman Machine.

  14. Active Learning in an Introductory Meteorology Class

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Marchese, P. J.; Bluestone, C.

    2007-12-01

    Active learning modules were introduced to the primarily minority population in the introductory meteorology class at Queensborough Community College (QCC). These activities were developed at QCC and other 4 year colleges and designed to reinforce basic meteorological concepts. The modules consisted of either Interactive Lecture Demonstrations (ILD) or discovery-based activities. During the ILD the instructor would describe an experiment that would be demonstrated in class. Students would predict what the outcome would be and compare their expected results to the actual outcome of the experiment. In the discovery-based activities students would learn about physical concepts by performing basic experiments. These activities differed from the traditional lab in that it avoided "cookbook" procedures and emphasized having the students learn about the concept using the scientific method. As a result of these activities student scores measuring conceptual understanding, as well as factual knowledge, increased as compared to student scores in a more affluent community college. Students also had higher self- efficacy scores. Lower scoring students demonstrated the greatest benefit, while the better students had little (or no) changes.

  15. Variation in external representations as part of the classroom lecture:An investigation of virtual cell animations in introductory photosynthesis instruction.

    PubMed

    Goff, Eric E; Reindl, Katie M; Johnson, Christina; McClean, Phillip; Offerdahl, Erika G; Schroeder, Noah L; White, Alan R

    2017-05-01

    The use of external representations (ERs) to introduce concepts in undergraduate biology has become increasingly common. Two of the most prevalent are static images and dynamic animations. While previous studies comparing static images and dynamic animations have resulted in somewhat conflicting findings in regards to learning outcomes, the benefits of each have been shown individually. Using ERs developed by the Virtual Cell Animation project, we aim to further investigate student learning using different ERs as part of an introductory biology lecture. We focus our study on the topic of photosynthesis as reports have noted that students struggle with a number of basic photosynthesis concepts. Students (n = 167) in ten sections of introductory biology laboratory were introduced to photosynthesis concepts by instructional lectures differing only in the format of the embedded ERs. Normalized gain scores were calculated, showing that students who learned with dynamic animations outperformed students who learned from static images on the posttest. The results of this study provide possible instructional guidelines for those delivering photosynthesis instruction in the introductory biology classroom. © 2016 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 45(3):226-234, 2017. © 2016 The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

  16. Measuring and Advancing Experimental Design Ability in an Introductory Course without Altering Existing Lab Curriculum.

    PubMed

    Shanks, Ryan A; Robertson, Chuck L; Haygood, Christian S; Herdliksa, Anna M; Herdliska, Heather R; Lloyd, Steven A

    2017-01-01

    Introductory biology courses provide an important opportunity to prepare students for future courses, yet existing cookbook labs, although important in their own way, fail to provide many of the advantages of semester-long research experiences. Engaging, authentic research experiences aid biology students in meeting many learning goals. Therefore, overlaying a research experience onto the existing lab structure allows faculty to overcome barriers involving curricular change. Here we propose a working model for this overlay design in an introductory biology course and detail a means to conduct this lab with minimal increases in student and faculty workloads. Furthermore, we conducted exploratory factor analysis of the Experimental Design Ability Test (EDAT) and uncovered two latent factors which provide valid means to assess this overlay model's ability to increase advanced experimental design abilities. In a pre-test/post-test design, we demonstrate significant increases in both basic and advanced experimental design abilities in an experimental and comparison group. We measured significantly higher gains in advanced experimental design understanding in students in the experimental group. We believe this overlay model and EDAT factor analysis contribute a novel means to conduct and assess the effectiveness of authentic research experiences in an introductory course without major changes to the course curriculum and with minimal increases in faculty and student workloads.

  17. Light Pollution: A Primer for Astronomers to Engage in Teaching and Outreach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Caton, Daniel Bruce

    2018-01-01

    Most astronomers are familiar with the basic problem of light pollution but may not have explored how to teach their students about the problem or to inform officials in their community in order to help mitigate the problem. Indeed, many professional and amateur astronomers leave their light-polluted community to observe the sky from dark research observatories and rural star parties,, and then return to take no action to alleviate and reduce the light pollution in their own community. This is not a sustainable approach, and eventually this will lead to fewer sites to do their observations.In this presentation we give the basics of the problem and provide information on effective solutions. A link will be provided to download a sample PowerPoint, with Notes providing guidance to edit it to include images of both good and bad lighting in their own community. This can be shown to students as part of introductory astronomy and observational techniques courses, so the students might be able to help their with the problem in their own communities. Indeed this may satisfy curriculum requirements as a component of sustainable development. It may also be presented to local planning and permitting officials to develop at least a simple outdoor lighting ordinance.

  18. Artificial Intelligence for Controlling Robotic Aircraft

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Krishnakumar, Kalmanje

    2005-01-01

    A document consisting mostly of lecture slides presents overviews of artificial-intelligence-based control methods now under development for application to robotic aircraft [called Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the paper] and spacecraft and to the next generation of flight controllers for piloted aircraft. Following brief introductory remarks, the paper presents background information on intelligent control, including basic characteristics defining intelligent systems and intelligent control and the concept of levels of intelligent control. Next, the paper addresses several concepts in intelligent flight control. The document ends with some concluding remarks, including statements to the effect that (1) intelligent control architectures can guarantee stability of inner control loops and (2) for UAVs, intelligent control provides a robust way to accommodate an outer-loop control architecture for planning and/or related purposes.

  19. Off to the (Earthworm) Races: A Quick and Flexible Lab Experiment for Introductory Zoology Courses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Switzer, Paul V.; Fritz, Ann H.

    2001-01-01

    Presents a hands-on, investigative lab activity for use in an introductory zoology course. Tests the behavioral hypothesis that substrate texture affects earthworm locomotor ability. Provides background information on earthworm locomotion followed by details of the lab exercise. (NB)

  20. NUCLEAR SCIENCE, AN INTRODUCTORY COURSE.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    SULCOSKI, JOHN W.

    THIS CURRICULUM GUIDE DESCRIBES A TWELFTH-GRADE INTERDISCIPLINARY, INTRODUCTORY NUCLEAR SCIENCE COURSE. IT IS BELIEVED TO FILL THE NEED FOR AN ADVANCED COURSE THAT IS TIMELY, CHALLENGING, AND APPROPRIATE AS A SEQUENTIAL ADDITION TO THE BIOLOGY-CHEMISTRY-PHYSICS SEQUENCE. PRELIMINARY INFORMATION COVERS SUCH MATTERS AS (1) RADIOISOTOPE WORK AREAS,…

  1. Education: Lichens in US Introductory Botany Textbooks, 1936-1986.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rudolph, Emanuel D.

    1988-01-01

    This article reviews the treatment of lichens in 93 different introductory North American botany textbooks. Topics considered are questions of relationship, independent survival, reproduction, definition, and scientific name. The author reports that treatment is uneven and often includes incomplete or erroneous information which may persist…

  2. Do Active Learning Approaches in Recitation Sections Improve Student Performance? A Case Study from an Introductory Mechanics Course

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tobin, R. G.

    2018-01-01

    Abundant research leaves little question that pedagogical approaches involving active student engagement with the material, and opportunities for student-to-student discussions, lead to much better learning outcomes than traditional instructor-led, expository instructional formats, in physics and in many other fields. In introductory college physics classes, some departments have departed radically from conventional lecture-recitation-laboratory course structures, but many, including my own, retain the basic format of large-group classroom sessions (lectures) supplemented by smaller-group meetings focused on problem solving (recitations) and separate laboratory meetings. Active student engagement in the lectures is encouraged through approaches such as Peer Instruction and Interactive Lecture Demonstrations, and these approaches have been demonstrably successful.

  3. Teaching Introductory Programming to IS Students: The Impact of Teaching Approaches on Learning Performance

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Zhang, Xihui; Zhang, Chi; Stafford, Thomas F.; Zhang, Ping

    2013-01-01

    Introductory programming courses are typically required for undergraduate students majoring in Information Systems. Instructors use different approaches to teaching this course: some lecturing and assigning programming exercises, others only assigning programming exercises without lectures. This research compares the effects of these two teaching…

  4. Introduction to Deaf-Blindness Workshop.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rhodes, Larry

    This document presents the agenda and materials distributed at a 1-day introductory workshop on deaf-blindness. Introductory material explains the workshop's purpose and rules. A short test contrasts facts and myths about deaf-blindness. A handout presents information on the dynamics of deaf-blindness, etiologies in the adult deaf-blind…

  5. A Formal Language Selection Process for Introductory Programming Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Parker, Kevin R.; Chao, Joseph T.; Ottaway, Thomas A.; Chang, Jane

    2006-01-01

    The selection of a programming language for introductory courses has long been an informal process involving faculty evaluation, discussion, and consensus. As the number of faculty, students, and language options grows, this process becomes increasingly unwieldy. As it stands, the process currently lacks structure and replicability. Establishing a…

  6. MRI Experiments for Introductory Physics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taghizadeh, Sanaz; Lincoln, James

    2018-01-01

    The introductory physics classroom has long educated students about the properties of the atom and the nucleus. But absent from these lessons has been an informed discussion of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and its parent science nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Physics teachers should not miss the opportunity to instruct upon this highly…

  7. 77 FR 50677 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Boundary and Annexation Survey

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-08-22

    ..., preparing population estimates, and supporting other statistical programs of the Census Bureau, and the... survey. The typical BAS package contains: 1. Introductory letter from the Director of the Census Bureau... Census Bureau. The typical Digital BAS package contains: 1. Introductory letter from the Director of the...

  8. Race, Sex, and Their Influences on Introductory Statistics Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    van Es, Cindy; Weaver, Michelle M.

    2018-01-01

    The Survey of Attitudes Toward Statistics or SATS was administered for three consecutive years to students in an Introductory Statistics course at Cornell University. Questions requesting demographic information and expected final course grade were added. Responses were analyzed to investigate possible differences between sexes and racial/ethnic…

  9. Marx and Education. Routledge Key Ideas in Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Anyon, Jean

    2011-01-01

    There was only one Karl Marx, but there have been a multitude of Marxisms. This concise, introductory book by internationally renowned scholar Jean Anyon centers on the ideas of Marx that have been used in education studies as a guide to theory, analysis, research, and practice. "Marx and Education" begins with a brief overview of basic Marxist…

  10. EXPLORATORY STUDIES IN THE USE OF PICTURES AND SOUND FOR TEACHING FOREIGN LANGUAGE VOCABULARY.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    GROSSLIGHT, J.H.; KALE, S.V.

    THE EFFECTS OF A NUMBER OF VARIABLES BASIC TO THE LEARNING OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE VOCABULARY WERE REPORTED. THE LANGUAGE SELECTED FOR LEARNING WAS RUSSIAN. SUBJECTS IN THE FIRST EXPERIMENT WERE 409 STUDENTS FROM AN INTRODUCTORY PSYCHOLOGY COURSE. FROM AN ENGLISH-RUSSIAN DICTIONARY, A PRELIMINARY LIST OF COMMON VERBS WAS SELECTED WHICH REPRESENTED AN…

  11. Teaching Scientific Literacy in an Introductory Women's Studies Course: A Case Study in Interdisciplinary Collaboration

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fuselier, Linda; Murphy, Claudia; Bender, Anita; Falcón, Kandace Creel

    2015-01-01

    Background and purpose: The purpose of this exploratory case study is to describe how scholars negotiated disciplinary divides to develop and communicate to their students an understanding of the basic features of scientific knowledge. Our goals were to examine boundary crossing in interdisciplinary collaboration and to assess the efficacy of…

  12. Developing a Technology Enhanced CS0 Course for Engineering Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lokkila, Erno; Kaila, Erkki; Lindén, Rolf; Laakso, Mikko-Jussi; Sutinen, Erkki

    2016-01-01

    The CS0 course in the curriculum typically has the role of introducing students into basic concepts and terminology of computer science. Hence, it is used to form a base on which the subsequent programming courses can build on. However, much of the effort to build better methodologies for courses is spent on introductory programming courses…

  13. Using Portable Media Players (iPod) to Support Electronic Course Materials during a Field-Based Introductory Geology Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Elkins, Joe T.

    2009-01-01

    Electronic course materials, such a videos, PowerPoint presentations, and animations, have become essential educational tools in classroom-based geoscience courses to enhance students' introduction to basic geological concepts. However, during field trips, the ability to offer students these electronic conceptual supports is lacking where students…

  14. Dialogue-Based Call: A Case Study on Teaching Pronouns

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vlugter, P.; Knott, A.; McDonald, J.; Hall, C.

    2009-01-01

    We describe a computer assisted language learning (CALL) system that uses human-machine dialogue as its medium of interaction. The system was developed to help students learn the basics of the Maori language and was designed to accompany the introductory course in Maori running at the University of Otago. The student engages in a task-based…

  15. Exoplanet Science in the Classroom: Learning Activities for an Introductory Physics Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Della-Rose, Devin; Carlson, Randall; de La Harpe, Kimberly; Novotny, Steven; Polsgrove, Daniel

    2018-01-01

    Discovery of planets outside our solar system, known as extra-solar planets or exoplanets for short, has been at the forefront of astronomical research for over 25 years. Reports of new discoveries have almost become routine; however, the excitement surrounding them has not. Amazingly, as groundbreaking as exoplanet science is, the basic physics…

  16. Curriculum Outline for Introduction to Engineering Chemistry. Second Edition. Review Cycle-Annual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schlenker, Richard M.

    Introduction to Engineering Chemistry is a four-credit hour (one semester) course designed to introduce marine engineering students to the rudiments of basic (introductory) inorganic chemistry. The course consists of 18 units (numbered 1.0 through 18.0) focusing on these subject areas: fundamental concepts; structure of the atom and the periodic…

  17. minimUML: A Minimalist Approach to UML Diagramming for Early Computer Science Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Turner, Scott A.; Perez-Quinones, Manuel A.; Edwards, Stephen H.

    2005-01-01

    In introductory computer science courses, the Unified Modeling Language (UML) is commonly used to teach basic object-oriented design. However, there appears to be a lack of suitable software to support this task. Many of the available programs that support UML focus on developing code and not on enhancing learning. Programs designed for…

  18. Theories of Urban Location: An Introductory Essay, Resource Paper No. 1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Berry, Brian J. L.

    This resource paper on geographical theories of urban location is part of a series designed to supplement undergraduate geography courses. The basic reasons for a city are to be found in the activities it performs in a specialized society and the clustering of residences of workers employed in these activities. The city, therefore, remains a…

  19. The Influence of Computer-Based Text Editors on the Revision Strategies of Inexperienced Writers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Collier, Richard M.

    A study sought to determine the effect of computer-based text editing on the revision strategies of inexperienced writers. Four subjects, none of whom had experience with computers or word processors, were selected from an introductory college composition course and required to master the basic terminal functions that would be necessary for…

  20. Spanish as a Second Language Units, Grade 6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Galindo, Angelina

    This guide provides 11 basic lessons for the English monolingual and English dominant sixth grader. It may also be adapted for other grade levels. The guide may be used independently as introductory material or as a supplement to other Spanish-as-a-second-language (SSL) programs. The units are designed to develop first the listening and speaking…

  1. An Introductory Set of Activities Designed to Facilitate Successful Combinatorial Enumeration for Undergraduate Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lockwood, Elise; Swinyard, Craig A.

    2016-01-01

    In this paper, we present a set of activities for an introduction to solving counting problems. These activities emerged from a teaching experiment with two university students, during which they reinvented four basic counting formulas. Here we present a three-phase set of activities: orienting counting activities; reinvention counting activities;…

  2. Basic Guidelines to Introduce Electric Circuit Simulation Software in a General Physics Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Moya, A. A.

    2018-01-01

    The introduction of electric circuit simulation software for undergraduate students in a general physics course is proposed in order to contribute to the constructive learning of electric circuit theory. This work focuses on the lab exercises based on dc, transient and ac analysis in electric circuits found in introductory physics courses, and…

  3. Examining a Web-Based Peer Feedback System in an Introductory Computer Literacy Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Adiguzel, Tufan; Varank, Ilhan; Erkoç, Mehmet Fatih; Buyukimdat, Meryem Koskeroglu

    2017-01-01

    This study focused on formative use of peer feedback in an online system that was used in basic computer literacy for word processing assignment-related purposes. Specifically, the effect of quantity, modality and satisfaction of peer feedback provided through the online system on students' performance, self-efficacy, and technology acceptance was…

  4. How Much Do Students Remember from an Introductory Psychology Course?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Herman, William E.

    2010-01-01

    Nearly 100 students were given a Pre-Test in psychology on the first day of class without warning in order to assess their knowledge of basic course content derived from the prerequisites of the course (PSYC-100 Introduction to Psychology or PSYC-220 Child Development) and other life experiences. This was intended as a low-stakes testing…

  5. Medical Mycology and the Chemistry Classroom: Germinating Student Interest in Organic Chemistry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bliss, Joseph M.; Reid, Christopher W.

    2013-01-01

    Efforts to provide active research context to introductory courses in basic sciences are likely to better engage learners and provide a framework for relevant concepts. A simple teaching and learning experiment was conducted to use concepts in organic chemistry to solve problems in the life sciences. Bryant University is a liberal arts university…

  6. Be Your Own Boss: Introducing Entrepreneurship. Professional Development Series, No. 5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Persons, Edgar A.

    Suitable for use by teachers as an introductory unit on entrepreneurship, this booklet is organized around 10 basic questions that the aspiring entrepreneur should be able to answer. The following issues are covered in the questions: the suitability of the individual to the entrepreneur role and vice versa, the ability of the individual to make…

  7. Equations as Guides to Thinking and Problem Solving

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hewitt, Paul G.

    2011-01-01

    Science is the study of nature's rules. The most basic of these are the laws of physics, most of which are expressed in equation form. Physics equations show how concepts connect to one another. But does a study of these equations enhance student understanding? Not always, for too often in an introductory course students are tempted (or even…

  8. Probing Students' Understanding of Some Conceptual Themes in General Relativity

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bandyopadhyay, Atanu; Kumar, Arvind

    2010-01-01

    This work is an attempt to see how physics undergraduates view the basic ideas of general relativity when they are exposed to the topic in a standard introductory course. Since the subject is conceptually and technically difficult, we adopted a "case studies" approach, focusing in depth on about six students who had just finished a one semester…

  9. Basics of Law Librarianship. Haworth Series in Special Librarianship, Volume 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Panella, Deborah S.

    This document is an introductory guide to all aspects of law librarianship. Chapters 1 and 2 provide an overview of the history and nature of law libraries and the nature of the legal field and legal clientele. Collection development is discussed in chapter 3, covering such aspects as acquisitions, alternatives to purchasing materials, selection…

  10. Moving beyond Solving for "x": Teaching Abstract Algebra in a Liberal Arts Mathematics Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cook, John Paul

    2015-01-01

    This paper details an inquiry-based approach for teaching the basic notions of rings and fields to liberal arts mathematics students. The task sequence seeks to encourage students to identify and comprehend core concepts of introductory abstract algebra by thinking like mathematicians; that is, by investigating an open-ended mathematical context,…

  11. Survey of World Art: Instructional Guide and Resource.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Montgomery County Public Schools, Rockville, MD.

    The guide is designed to help high school art teachers develop an introductory art survey course which focuses on the basic elements and theoretical principles of art products from prehistory through the present day. A major objective of the course is to help students analyze the relationships between art and society and between the artist and…

  12. Environmental Issues Conflict Unit. Teacher's Guide and Student Book.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fagerstrom, Richard A.; Borad, Bruce

    The two separate manuals focus on environmental issues of interest to secondary students. An introductory unit deals with basic ecology and is followed by another unit that explores man's ethic toward the use of environment. Emphasis is upon two major ecological conflicts: one over the use of a wilderness area, and the other over the use of living…

  13. Minding your Own Small Business - An Introductory Curriculum for Small Business Management. Volume I.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Holt, Nancy; And Others

    Ten units on the basic knowledge and skills needed to manage a small business are provided in this curriculum guide designed for use with secondary and postsecondary students. Unit topics include forms of businesses, marketing, location, systems and records, promotion, pricing, human relations, financing a business, and effects of business…

  14. Finding the Forest Amid the Trees: Tools for Evaluating Astronomy Education and Public Outreach Projects

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bailey, Janelle M.; Slater, Timothy F.

    2004-01-01

    The effective evaluation of educational projects is becoming increasingly important to funding agencies and to the individuals and organizations involved in the projects. This brief "how-to" guide provides an introductory description of the purpose and basic ideas of project evaluation, and uses authentic examples from four different astronomy and…

  15. Misrepresentation, liberalism, and heterosexual bias in introductory psychology textbooks.

    PubMed

    McDonald, G

    1981-01-01

    The present study investigated the content of 48 introductory psychology textbooks published over a five-year period (1975-1979) and recommended by publishing companies or psychology professors for use in Canadian universities. The findings indicated that for every one source of relevant information on homosexuality there were five sources of misrepresentative data that reflect a combination of misleading information, liberalism, and heterosexual bias. Textbook editors and authors have: (1) failed to address the rights and needs of gay people; (2) failed to document accurately the social changes associated with being gay; and (3) perpetuated societal stereotypes, thereby appearing to justify the prejudice and discrimination encountered by gay people in their daily lives. Guidelines for the discussion of lesbianism and male homosexuality in introductory psychology textbooks are proposed.

  16. Stream habitat analysis using the instream flow incremental methodology

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Bovee, Ken D.; Lamb, Berton L.; Bartholow, John M.; Stalnaker, Clair B.; Taylor, Jonathan; Henriksen, Jim

    1998-01-01

    This document describes the Instream Flow Methodology in its entirety. This also is to serve as a comprehensive introductory textbook on IFIM for training courses as it contains the most complete and comprehensive description of IFIM in existence today. This should also serve as an official guide to IFIM in publication to counteract the misconceptions about the methodology that have pervaded the professional literature since the mid-1980's as this describes IFIM as it is envisioned by its developers. The document is aimed at the decisionmakers of management and allocation of natural resources in providing them an overview; and to those who design and implement studies to inform the decisionmakers. There should be enough background on model concepts, data requirements, calibration techniques, and quality assurance to help the technical user design and implement a cost-effective application of IFIM that will provide policy-relevant information. Some of the chapters deal with basic organization of IFIM, procedural sequence of applying IFIM starting with problem identification, study planning and implementation, and problem resolution.

  17. Development of Online Cognitive and Algorithm Tests as Assessment Tools in Introductory Computer Science Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Avancena, Aimee Theresa; Nishihara, Akinori; Vergara, John Paul

    2012-01-01

    This paper presents the online cognitive and algorithm tests, which were developed in order to determine if certain cognitive factors and fundamental algorithms correlate with the performance of students in their introductory computer science course. The tests were implemented among Management Information Systems majors from the Philippines and…

  18. The Distribution of Macromolecular Principles throughout Introductory Organic Chemistry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shulman, Joel I.

    2017-01-01

    Many of the principles of organic polymer chemistry are direct extensions of the information contained in the standard introductory organic chemistry course. Often, however, the discussion of macromolecules is relegated to a chapter at the end of the organic chemistry text and is covered briefly, if at all. Connecting the organic-chemical…

  19. An Examination of the Introductory MIS Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wang, Shouhong

    2007-01-01

    The introductory management information systems (MIS) course is a core course for all business majors at almost every business school. It is common for this course to have multiple sections taught by a mixed group of instructors each semester. Hence, consistent pedagogy and assessment are needed for multiple sections of this course. This paper…

  20. Content Analysis of Introductory Interior Design College Textbooks: A Study Revisited

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Temple, Julie A.; Potthoff, Joy K.

    2013-01-01

    Introductory interior design texts adopted by design educators present information relevant to both historical and contemporary issues in interior design. According to one author, they provide a "survey of the field of interior design as it now exists" (Pile, 2007). A comparison of the content of contemporary texts with those of more…

  1. Psychology Teacher's Resource Book. First Course, Third Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Margo, Ed.; Wertheimer, Michael, Ed.

    Now in its third edition, this book contains background materials and resources for teaching introductory high school psychology. There are 11 chapters. Textbooks appropriate for introductory courses are reviewed in the first chapter. Books of reading which are a potentially valuable source of information to both student and teacher are listed in…

  2. Measuring and Advancing Experimental Design Ability in an Introductory Course without Altering Existing Lab Curriculum†

    PubMed Central

    Shanks, Ryan A.; Robertson, Chuck L.; Haygood, Christian S.; Herdliksa, Anna M.; Herdliska, Heather R.; Lloyd, Steven A.

    2017-01-01

    Introductory biology courses provide an important opportunity to prepare students for future courses, yet existing cookbook labs, although important in their own way, fail to provide many of the advantages of semester-long research experiences. Engaging, authentic research experiences aid biology students in meeting many learning goals. Therefore, overlaying a research experience onto the existing lab structure allows faculty to overcome barriers involving curricular change. Here we propose a working model for this overlay design in an introductory biology course and detail a means to conduct this lab with minimal increases in student and faculty workloads. Furthermore, we conducted exploratory factor analysis of the Experimental Design Ability Test (EDAT) and uncovered two latent factors which provide valid means to assess this overlay model’s ability to increase advanced experimental design abilities. In a pre-test/post-test design, we demonstrate significant increases in both basic and advanced experimental design abilities in an experimental and comparison group. We measured significantly higher gains in advanced experimental design understanding in students in the experimental group. We believe this overlay model and EDAT factor analysis contribute a novel means to conduct and assess the effectiveness of authentic research experiences in an introductory course without major changes to the course curriculum and with minimal increases in faculty and student workloads. PMID:28904647

  3. Adolescent responses toward a new technology: first associations, information seeking and affective responses to ecogenomics.

    PubMed

    Bos, Mark J W; Koolstra, Cees M; Willems, Jaap T J M

    2009-03-01

    This paper reports on an exploratory study among adolescents (N = 752) who were introduced to the emerging technology of ecogenomics for the first time. An online survey focused on their associations with the term ecogenomics, their planned information seeking behaviors if they were to acquire information about the new technology, and their first affective responses toward ecogenomics after having read some introductory information about it. Adolescents were found to associate ecogenomics most frequently with economy. Although the Internet was the most popular medium to be used in their planned information seeking behaviors, books and science communication professionals were judged as the most trustworthy information sources. After having read the introductory information about ecogenomics most adolescents reported positive affective responses toward the new technology.

  4. PRODUCTION OF HEAVY WATER SAVANNAH RIVER AND DANA PLANTS. Technical Manual

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bebbington, W.P.; Thayer, V.R. eds.; Proctor, J.F. comp.

    1959-07-01

    A summary is presented of the basic technical iniormation that pertains to processes that are used at the Dana and Savannah River Plants for the production of heavy water. The manual is intended primarily for plant operating and technical personnel and was prepared to supplement and provide technical support for detailed operating procedures. Introductory sections contain some background information on the history, uses, available processes, and analytical procedures for heavy water. They also include a general comparison of the design and laserformance of the two plants and an analysis of their differences. The technology of the heavy water separation processesmore » used, namely hydrogen sulfide exchange, distillation of water, and electrolysis is discussed in detail. The manufacture and storage of hydrogen sulfide gas and the process water treatment facilities are also discussed. (auth)« less

  5. Assessing the Effectiveness of Studio Physics in Introductory-Level Courses at Georgia State University

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Upton, Brianna; Evans, John; Morrow, Cherilynn; Thoms, Brian

    2009-11-01

    Previous studies have shown that many students have misconceptions about basic concepts in physics. Moreover, it has been concluded that one of the challenges lies in the teaching methodology. To address this, Georgia State University has begun teaching studio algebra-based physics. Although many institutions have implemented studio physics, most have done so in calculus-based sequences. The effectiveness of the studio approach in an algebra-based introductory physics course needs further investigation. A 3-semester study assessing the effectiveness of studio physics in an algebra-based physics sequence has been performed. This study compares the results of student pre- and post-tests using the Force Concept Inventory. Using the results from this assessment tool, we will discuss the effectiveness of the studio approach to teaching physics at GSU.

  6. Three Conceptions of Thermodynamics: Technical Matrices in Science and Engineering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Christiansen, Frederik V.; Rump, Camilla

    2008-11-01

    Introductory thermodynamics is a topic which is covered in a wide variety of science and engineering educations. However, very different teaching traditions have evolved within different scientific specialties. In this study we examine three courses in introductory thermodynamics within three different scientific specialties: physics, chemical engineering and mechanical engineering. Based on a generalization of Kuhn’s theory of disciplinary matrix, and the idea of boundary objects we analyse how basic thermodynamics theory is conceived in the different scientific specialties. The study is based on interviews with teachers and analysis of the different textbook traditions. It is concluded that teachers need to take into account how subject matter is conceived in other related scientific specialties when designing courses. Two examples demonstrating how this may be done are given.

  7. A comparative study of traditional lecture methods and interactive lecture methods in introductory geology courses for non-science majors at the college level

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hundley, Stacey A.

    In recent years there has been a national call for reform in undergraduate science education. The goal of this reform movement in science education is to develop ways to improve undergraduate student learning with an emphasis on developing more effective teaching practices. Introductory science courses at the college level are generally taught using a traditional lecture format. Recent studies have shown incorporating active learning strategies within the traditional lecture classroom has positive effects on student outcomes. This study focuses on incorporating interactive teaching methods into the traditional lecture classroom to enhance student learning for non-science majors enrolled in introductory geology courses at a private university. Students' experience and instructional preferences regarding introductory geology courses were identified from survey data analysis. The information gained from responses to the questionnaire was utilized to develop an interactive lecture introductory geology course for non-science majors. Student outcomes were examined in introductory geology courses based on two teaching methods: interactive lecture and traditional lecture. There were no significant statistical differences between the groups based on the student outcomes and teaching methods. Incorporating interactive lecture methods did not statistically improve student outcomes when compared to traditional lecture teaching methods. However, the responses to the survey revealed students have a preference for introductory geology courses taught with lecture and instructor-led discussions and students prefer to work independently or in small groups. The results of this study are useful to individuals who teach introductory geology courses and individuals who teach introductory science courses for non-science majors at the college level.

  8. Improving the Teaching of Science through Discipline-Based Education Research: An Example from Physics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McDermott, Lillian C.

    2013-01-01

    Research on the learning and teaching of science is an important field for scholarly inquiry by faculty in science departments. Such research has proved to be an efficient means for improving the effectiveness of instruction in physics. A basic topic in introductory physics is used to illustrate how discipline-based education research has helped…

  9. Introducing Basic Molecular Biology to Turkish Rural and Urban Primary School Children via Hands-on PCR and Gel Electrophoresis Activities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Selli, Cigdem; Yildirim, Gokce; Kaymak, Aysegul; Karacicek, Bilge; Ogut, Deniz; Gungor, Turkan; Erem, Erdem; Ege, Mehmet; Bümen, Nilay; Tosun, Metiner

    2014-01-01

    This study includes the results of a 2-day education project titled "Molecular Biology Laboratory Summer School, MoBiLYO." The project was held at a University Research Center by scientists from Department of Pharmacology and graduate students. The project was composed of introductory lectures, model construction, DNA isolation,…

  10. Model Rocketry in the High School. Grades 9-12. Course Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Grossenbacher, Roger

    This document describes a general introductory course in applied science intended for students of various interests and abilities. The course is designed to provide high school students with a basic understanding of the space age with an emphasis on model rocketry. Included is an outline of the subject matter to be covered in units on: (1)…

  11. The Reluctant Pillar: New York and the Adoption of the Federal Constitution.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schechter, Stephen L., Ed.

    This collection of essays is intended for both the general reader and the specialist and is designed to provide the basic elements needed for an introductory survey and a reference aid to the role of New York State in the adoption of the federal Constitution. The collection is organized into five sections: theory, history, materials, people and…

  12. Establishing a Framework for the Study of English.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Woolf, Leonard; Velder, Milton

    1970-01-01

    This 2-week unit uses visuals of a recent space walk as the basis for an introductory study of the nature of language. The aims of the unit are (1) to show pupils how language operates, (2) to stimulate awareness of the importance of basic language skills, (3) to develop an increased desire in using language effectively, and (4) to acquaint…

  13. A Taste of English: Nutrition Workbook for Adult ESL Students. Teacher's Manual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Association of Farmworker Opportunity Program, Arlington, VA.

    This workbook introduces basic concepts of nutrition and health to beginning adult students of English as a Second Language (ESL). The text may also be adapted for use with new readers. It is intended as a supplement to existing instructional materials. An introductory section offers teachers suggestions for use of the text and notes on the design…

  14. Effects of an Instructional Gaming Characteristic on Learning Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Engagement: Using a Storyline for Teaching Basic Statistical Skills

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Novak, Elena; Johnson, Tristan E.; Tenenbaum, Gershon; Shute, Valerie J.

    2016-01-01

    The study explored instructional benefits of a storyline gaming characteristic (GC) on learning effectiveness, efficiency, and engagement with the use of an online instructional simulation for graduate students in an introductory statistics course. A storyline is a game-design element that connects scenes with the educational content. In order to…

  15. The Physics of the Automobile Ignition System: Unit 4A of a Modular Approach to Physics for Technicians. First Trial Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Aldridge, Bill G.; And Others

    Presented is a technical physics module designed to meet objectives in electricity and magnetism for students in an introductory physics course and emphasizing laboratory work. Included are basic text materials, prerequisites, objectives, a posttest, experiments, and a teacher's guide. The module is designed to be used on an individual instruction…

  16. An Evaluation of the Chemical Origin of Life as a Context for Teaching Undergraduate Chemistry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Venkataraman, Bhawani

    2011-01-01

    The chemical origin of life on earth has been used as a conceptual framework in an introductory, undergraduate chemistry course. The course explores the sequence of events through which life is believed to have emerged, from atoms to molecules to macromolecular systems, and uses this framework to teach basic chemical concepts. The results of this…

  17. Hello World, It's Me: Bringing the Basic Speech Communication Course into the Digital Age

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kirkwood, Jessica; Gutgold, Nichola D.; Manley, Destiny

    2011-01-01

    During the past decade, instructors of speech communication have been adapting the introductory speech course to keep up with the television age. Learning units in speech textbooks now teach how to speak well on television, as well as how to interpret speeches in the media. This article argues that the computer age invites adaptation of the…

  18. Projectiles, pendula, and special relativity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Price, Richard H.

    2005-05-01

    The kind of flat-earth gravity used in introductory physics appears in an accelerated reference system in special relativity. From this viewpoint, we work out the special relativistic description of a ballistic projectile and a simple pendulum, two examples of simple motion driven by earth-surface gravity. The analysis uses only the basic mathematical tools of special relativity typical of a first-year university course.

  19. Mississippi Curriculum Framework for Emergency Medical Technology--Basic (Program CIP: 51.0904). Emergency Medical Technology--Paramedic (Program CIP: 51.0904). Postsecondary Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mississippi Research and Curriculum Unit for Vocational and Technical Education, State College.

    This document, which is intended for use by community and junior colleges throughout Mississippi, contains curriculum frameworks for the course sequences in the emergency medical technology (EMT) programs cluster. Presented in the introductory section are a description of the program and suggested course sequence. Section I lists baseline…

  20. Development and Trial of a Two Year Program of String Instruction. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rolland, Paul; And Others

    A series of films focused on movement education and rhythm training in string playing with emphasis on the violin were developed. An introductory film deals with principles of movement in string playing. Fifteen additional titles offer guidance to the student and teacher in the various details of basic string instruction. A summary film presents a…

  1. Effects of an Instructional Gaming Characteristic on Learning Effectiveness, Efficiency, and Engagement: Using a Storyline to Teach Basic Statistical Analytical Skills

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Novak, Elena

    2012-01-01

    The study explored instructional benefits of a storyline gaming characteristic (GC) on learning effectiveness, efficiency, and engagement with the use of an online instructional simulation for graduate students in an introductory statistics course. In addition, the study focused on examining the effects of a storyline GC on specific learning…

  2. Internal ballistics of a pneumatic potato cannon

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mungan, Carl E.

    2009-05-01

    Basic laws of thermodynamics and mechanics are used to analyse an air gun. Such devices are often employed in outdoor physics demonstrations to launch potatoes using compressed gas that is here assumed to expand reversibly and adiabatically. Reasonable agreement is found with reported muzzle speeds for such homebuilt cannons. The treatment is accessible to undergraduate students who have taken calculus-based introductory physics.

  3. It's a Wonderful Life: Using Public Domain Cinema Clips To Teach Affective Objectives and Illustrate Real-World Algebra Applications.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Palmer, Loretta

    A basic algebra unit was developed at Utah Valley State College to emphasize applications of mathematical concepts in the work world, using video and computer-generated graphics to integrate textual material. The course was implemented in three introductory algebra sections involving 80 students and taught algebraic concepts using such areas as…

  4. Laboratory Development and Lecture Renovation for a Science of Food and Cooking Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Miles, Deon T.; Borchardt, Adrienne C.

    2014-01-01

    Several years ago, a new nonscience majors course, The Science of Food and Cooking, was developed at our institution. The course covered basic scientific concepts that would normally be discussed in a typical introductory chemistry course, in the context of food and food preparation. Recently, the course has been revamped in three major ways: (1)…

  5. Science of Food and Cooking: A Non-Science Majors Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Miles, Deon T.; Bachman, Jennifer K.

    2009-01-01

    Recent emphasis on the science of food and cooking has been observed in our popular literature and media. As a result of this, a new non-science majors course, The Science of Food and Cooking, is being taught at our institution. We cover basic scientific concepts, which would normally be discussed in a typical introductory chemistry course, in the…

  6. The Cline Observatory at Guilford Technical Community College

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    English, T.; Martin, A.; Herrick, D.; Cline, D.

    2003-12-01

    The Cline Observatory at the Jamestown, NC campus of Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) was dedicated in 1997. It is the only such facility in the community college systems of the Carolinas. GTCC employs two astronomy faculty and offers multiple sections of introductory courses. The facility utilizes a 16-inch Meade LX-200 under a 6-meter dome, along with accessories for digital imaging and basic spectroscopic studies. An outside observing pad with permanent piers allows smaller instruments to be set up for sessions. In addition to supporting introductory and basic observational astronomy classes, the observatory provides regular outreach programs to serve a variety of constituencies. Public viewings are held once a week; school and community groups schedule visits throughout the year; special lectures bring the latest astronomical topics to the public; and annual conferences are hosted for regional amateur astronomers and for faculty/students from NC academic/research institutions. Volunteer support staff for such programs has been developed through partnership with the local astronomy club and through training via the observational astronomy course. Our courses and outreach programs have been very popular and successful, and the observatory now serves as a focal point of GTCC's public image.

  7. Day Care and Maternal Employment in 1990's Introductory Psychology Textbooks.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Etaugh, Claire; Cohen, Joseph; Hill, Myra

    One of the most striking societal changes in recent years is the increasing participation of mothers in the labor force. Since college-educated mothers are especially likely to work, a potentially important source of information about the effects of maternal employment is the introductory psychology course. To study the features of mothers in the…

  8. Creating and Teaching a Web-Based, University-Level Introductory Chemistry Course that Incorporates Laboratory Exercises and Active Learning Pedagogies

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Phipps, Linda R.

    2013-01-01

    An introductory, nonscience-majors chemistry course was converted to a Web-based course. The differences in student populations, teaching strategies, laboratory methods, and learning outcomes are described. Practical information is also given on the use of software and other online technology to implement course conversion. (Contains 2 tables.)

  9. IT0: Discrete Math and Programming Logic Topics as a Hybrid Alternative to CS0

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Martin, Nancy L.

    2015-01-01

    This paper describes the development of a hybrid introductory course for students in their first or second year of an information systems technologies degree program at a large Midwestern university. The course combines topics from discrete mathematics and programming logic and design, a unique twist on most introductory courses. The objective of…

  10. The Use of Facebook in an Introductory MIS Course: Social Constructivist Learning Environment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ractham, Peter; Kaewkitipong, Laddawan; Firpo, Daniel

    2012-01-01

    The major objective of this article is to evaluate via a Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) the implementation of a Social Constructivist learning framework for an introductory Management Information System (MIS) course. Facebook was used as a learning artifact to build and foster a learning environment, and a series of features and…

  11. The Impact of the Introductory IS Course on Students' Perceptions of IS Professionals

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Akbulut, Asli Yagmur

    2015-01-01

    Increasing the number of students pursuing Information Systems (IS) majors and careers is vital to the advancement of our knowledge-based economy. Literature suggests that one of the main reasons for students' lack of interest in IS has been the negative stereotypical image of IS professionals. Research has also emphasized that the introductory IS…

  12. OkCupid Data for Introductory Statistics and Data Science Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kim, Albert Y.; Escobedo-Land, Adriana

    2015-01-01

    We present a data set consisting of user profile data for 59,946 San Francisco OkCupid users (a free online dating website) from June 2012. The data set includes typical user information, lifestyle variables, and text responses to 10 essay questions. We present four example analyses suitable for use in undergraduate introductory probability and…

  13. 76 FR 66875 - Informal Entry Limit and Removal of a Formal Entry Requirement

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-28

    ... to properly assess duties on the merchandise and collect accurate statistics with respect to the.... In Sec. 10.1: a. Introductory paragraph (a) is amended by removing the word ``shall'' and adding in... removing the word ``shall'' and adding in its place the word ``must''; m. Introductory paragraph (h)(4) is...

  14. Lecture Notes on Multigrid Methods

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Vassilevski, P S

    The Lecture Notes are primarily based on a sequence of lectures given by the author while been a Fulbright scholar at 'St. Kliment Ohridski' University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria during the winter semester of 2009-2010 academic year. The notes are somewhat expanded version of the actual one semester class he taught there. The material covered is slightly modified and adapted version of similar topics covered in the author's monograph 'Multilevel Block-Factorization Preconditioners' published in 2008 by Springer. The author tried to keep the notes as self-contained as possible. That is why the lecture notes begin with some basic introductory matrix-vectormore » linear algebra, numerical PDEs (finite element) facts emphasizing the relations between functions in finite dimensional spaces and their coefficient vectors and respective norms. Then, some additional facts on the implementation of finite elements based on relation tables using the popular compressed sparse row (CSR) format are given. Also, typical condition number estimates of stiffness and mass matrices, the global matrix assembly from local element matrices are given as well. Finally, some basic introductory facts about stationary iterative methods, such as Gauss-Seidel and its symmetrized version are presented. The introductory material ends up with the smoothing property of the classical iterative methods and the main definition of two-grid iterative methods. From here on, the second part of the notes begins which deals with the various aspects of the principal TG and the numerous versions of the MG cycles. At the end, in part III, we briefly introduce algebraic versions of MG referred to as AMG, focusing on classes of AMG specialized for finite element matrices.« less

  15. Improving the Development of Student's Research Questions and Hypotheses in an Introductory Business Research Methods Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Strangman, Lauria; Knowles, Elizabeth

    2012-01-01

    In an introductory research methods course, students often develop research questions and hypotheses that are vague or confusing, do not contain measurable concepts, and are too narrow in scope or vision. Because of this, the final research projects often fail to provide useful information or address the overall research problem. A Lesson Study…

  16. Family Needs and Family Quality of Life for Taiwanese Families of Children with Intellectual Disability and Developmental Delay

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chiu, Chun-Yu

    2013-01-01

    This dissertation consists of four related chapters including an introductory overview of all four chapters, a report on family needs, a report on family quality of life, and a summary of implications for the conceptual framework. Chapter 1, the introductory overview, presents background information of Taiwan and describes the family quality of…

  17. Retention of Information Taught in Introductory Psychology Courses across Different Accelerated Course Formats

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Deichert, Nathan T.; Maxwell, Shannon J.; Klotz, Joseph

    2016-01-01

    The current study is a quasi-experimental examination of the effects of traditional and accelerated course formats on learning retention. The study analyzed data on an end-of-course exam collected from 132 students enrolled in introductory psychology courses across 3 course formats: a traditional 16-week format, a 5-week accelerated format, and an…

  18. Using a Serious Game Approach to Teach Secure Coding in Introductory Programming: Development and Initial Findings

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Adamo-Villani, Nicoletta; Oania, Marcus; Cooper, Stephen

    2013-01-01

    We report the development and initial evaluation of a serious game that, in conjunction with appropriately designed matching laboratory exercises, can be used to teach secure coding and Information Assurance (IA) concepts across a range of introductory computing courses. The IA Game is a role-playing serious game (RPG) in which the student travels…

  19. Using a Movie as a Capstone Activity for the Introductory Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Blessing, Stephen B.; Blessing, Jennifer S.

    2015-01-01

    A capstone experience serves as a culminating exercise for students to assimilate the information learned in a course and to realize how to use the material and skills in different contexts. Both majors and nonmajors benefit from having the material in the introductory course consolidated in such a way, for later study in the field and to more…

  20. Basic Operational Robotics Instructional System

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Todd, Brian Keith; Fischer, James; Falgout, Jane; Schweers, John

    2013-01-01

    The Basic Operational Robotics Instructional System (BORIS) is a six-degree-of-freedom rotational robotic manipulator system simulation used for training of fundamental robotics concepts, with in-line shoulder, offset elbow, and offset wrist. BORIS is used to provide generic robotics training to aerospace professionals including flight crews, flight controllers, and robotics instructors. It uses forward kinematic and inverse kinematic algorithms to simulate joint and end-effector motion, combined with a multibody dynamics model, moving-object contact model, and X-Windows based graphical user interfaces, coordinated in the Trick Simulation modeling environment. The motivation for development of BORIS was the need for a generic system for basic robotics training. Before BORIS, introductory robotics training was done with either the SRMS (Shuttle Remote Manipulator System) or SSRMS (Space Station Remote Manipulator System) simulations. The unique construction of each of these systems required some specialized training that distracted students from the ideas and goals of the basic robotics instruction.

  1. Measuring Mathematical Ability Needed for "Non-Mathematical" Majors: The Construction of a Scale Applying IRT and Differential Item Functioning across Educational Contexts

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Galli, Silvia; Chiesi, Francesca; Primi, Caterina

    2011-01-01

    Given that basic mathematical ability is a requirement to succeed in "non-mathematical" majors, e.g. degrees for Psychology, Education, and Health Sciences with compulsory introductory stats courses, assessing this ability can be useful to promote achievement. The aim of the present study was to develop a scale to measure the…

  2. Can Welfare Mothers Hack It in College? A Comparison of Achievement between TANF Recipients and General Population Community College Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fenster, Judy

    2004-01-01

    The achievement of a group of undergraduate students enrolled in a pilot program for welfare recipients in the form of TANF (Temporary Aid to Needy Families) was compared with the achievement of general population students at an urban community college. Grades attained in a basic level, introductory Psychology course were used to measure academic…

  3. Paying Less for College: 1993. The Complete Guide to $28 Billion in Financial Aid. Tenth Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Peterson's Guides, Inc., Princeton, NJ.

    This book on financial aid for college education is designed to be a guide to sources and an aid to the process of obtaining financial assistance. An introductory essay titled "The Twenty Most-Asked Questions About Financial Aid" gives a basic orientation on the issues and expert advice on how to tackle the problems of filling out forms,…

  4. Project EFFECT. Energy for the Future: Education, Conservation, Training. Curriculum Guides for the Training of Energy Extension Agents. A Working Paper, Section II: Technical Training.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Indiana Univ., South Bend. Center for Energy Conservation.

    This second of four sections in a curriculum guide for training energy extension agents contains general introductory materials, an overview of the total curriculum, and eight modules: Alternative Energy Sources (Solar and Wood), Basic Graphics and Blueprint Reading, Building Materials, Electricity, Introduction to Cooling Systems, Introduction to…

  5. Professional Teacher Education Module Series. Provide for the First Aid Needs of Students, Module E-6 of Category E--Instructional Management.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ohio State Univ., Columbus. National Center for Research in Vocational Education.

    This sixth in a series of nine learning modules on instructional management is designed to assist secondary and postsecondary vocational teachers in establishing and maintaining a procedure for attending to the basic first aid needs of students. Introductory sections relate the competency dealt with in this module to others in the program and list…

  6. Personal Reflection: "Joy Ride" with SoTL Practice: The Investigation of the Effectiveness of Assistive Technology Course Contents on Student Learning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cho, Jeong il

    2012-01-01

    This reflection is based on my project that investigated the impact of new course content on student learning of basic knowledge and attitudes toward various assistive technology (AT) devices and services using multiple measures in an introductory-level course in a special education program at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.…

  7. The Helen Keller World Conference on Services to Deaf-Blind Persons (4th, Stockholm, Sweden, September 28-October 3, 1989).

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Association of the Swedish Deaf-Blind, Enskede (Sweden).

    The monograph comprises the proceedings of a 1989 international conference on services to the deaf blind, including conference papers as well as reports from eight nations. Introductory material includes the text of the "Declaration of the Basic Needs of Deaf-Blind Persons" adopted at the conference, the conference program, and a list of…

  8. Beginning Spanish in Grade Three: MLA Teacher's Guide. A Course of Study Including Methods, Materials, and Aids for Teaching Conversational Spanish to Third-Grade Children.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thompson, Mary P.; And Others

    This is the first in a series of texts in a conversational Spanish course for elementary school children. Fifteen basic units present introductory linguistic patterns and cultural insights into the lives of Spaniards. They include: (1) Greetings, Identifications, and Farewells, (2) Some Classroom Objects and Instructions, (3) Colors, (4) More…

  9. Applied Cognitive Models of Behavior and Errors Patterns

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-09-01

    methods offer an opportunity to deliver good , effective introductory and basic training , thus potentially enabling a single human instructor to train ...emergency medical technician (EMT) domain, which offers a standardized curriculum on which we can create training scenarios. 2. Develop...complexity of software integration and limited access to physical devices can result in commitment to a de- sign that turns out to not offer many training

  10. Influencing Attitudes and Changing Behavior: A Basic Introduction to Relevant Methodology, Theory, and Applications. Revised Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Zimbardo, Philip; Ebbesen, Ebbe B.

    In this introductory text to the field of attitude change, the emphasis is on one of the end products of research in social psychology--manipulation and control of attitudes and related behaviors. The text first defines the concept of attitude, then identifies ideas from the areas of history, literature, law, religion, and the social sciences that…

  11. Some basic mathematical methods of diffusion theory. [emphasis on atmospheric applications

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Giere, A. C.

    1977-01-01

    An introductory treatment of the fundamentals of diffusion theory is presented, starting with molecular diffusion and leading up to the statistical methods of turbulent diffusion. A multilayer diffusion model, designed to permit concentration and dosage calculations downwind of toxic clouds from rocket vehicles, is described. The concepts and equations of diffusion are developed on an elementary level, with emphasis on atmospheric applications.

  12. Exoplanet Science in the Classroom: Learning Activities for an Introductory Physics Course

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Della-Rose, Devin; Carlson, Randall; de La Harpe, Kimberly; Novotny, Steven; Polsgrove, Daniel

    2018-03-01

    Discovery of planets outside our solar system, known as extra-solar planets or exoplanets for short, has been at the forefront of astronomical research for over 25 years. Reports of new discoveries have almost become routine; however, the excitement surrounding them has not. Amazingly, as groundbreaking as exoplanet science is, the basic physics is quite accessible to first-year physics students, as discussed in previous TPT articles. To further illustrate this point, we developed an iOS application that generates synthetic exoplanet data to provide students and teachers with interactive learning activities. Using introductory physics concepts, we demonstrate how to estimate exoplanet mass, radius, and density from the app output. These calculations form the basis for a diverse range of classroom activities. We conclude with a summary of exoplanet science resources for teachers.

  13. Introductory physics going soft

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Langbeheim, Elon; Livne, Shelly; Safran, Samuel A.; Yerushalmi, Edit

    2012-01-01

    We describe an elective course on soft matter at the level of introductory physics. Soft matter physics serves as a context that motivates the presentation of basic ideas in statistical thermodynamics and their applications. It also is an example of a contemporary field that is interdisciplinary and touches on chemistry, biology, and physics. We outline a curriculum that uses the lattice gas model as a quantitative and visual tool, initially to introduce entropy, and later to facilitate the calculation of interactions. We demonstrate how free energy minimization can be used to teach students to understand the properties of soft matter systems such as the phases of fluid mixtures, wetting of interfaces, self-assembly of surfactants, and polymers. We discuss several suggested activities in the form of inquiry projects which allow students to apply the concepts they have learned to experimental systems.

  14. A Diagnostic Assessment for Introductory Molecular and Cell Biology

    PubMed Central

    Wood, William B.; Martin, Jennifer M.; Guild, Nancy A.; Vicens, Quentin; Knight, Jennifer K.

    2010-01-01

    We have developed and validated a tool for assessing understanding of a selection of fundamental concepts and basic knowledge in undergraduate introductory molecular and cell biology, focusing on areas in which students often have misconceptions. This multiple-choice Introductory Molecular and Cell Biology Assessment (IMCA) instrument is designed for use as a pre- and posttest to measure student learning gains. To develop the assessment, we first worked with faculty to create a set of learning goals that targeted important concepts in the field and seemed likely to be emphasized by most instructors teaching these subjects. We interviewed students using open-ended questions to identify commonly held misconceptions, formulated multiple-choice questions that included these ideas as distracters, and reinterviewed students to establish validity of the instrument. The assessment was then evaluated by 25 biology experts and modified based on their suggestions. The complete revised assessment was administered to more than 1300 students at three institutions. Analysis of statistical parameters including item difficulty, item discrimination, and reliability provides evidence that the IMCA is a valid and reliable instrument with several potential uses in gauging student learning of key concepts in molecular and cell biology. PMID:21123692

  15. Understanding the gender gap: Social cognitive changes during an introductory stem course.

    PubMed

    Hardin, Erin E; Longhurst, Melanie O

    2016-03-01

    Despite robust support for the basic theoretical model of social cognitive career theory (Lent, Brown, & Hackett, 1994) and predictions that, for example, increases (or declines) in self-efficacy would lead to subsequent increases (or declines) in interest, there has been surprisingly little longitudinal research that has directly examined the extent to which members of different groups (e.g., women and men) actually do experience changes in critical social-cognitive variables over time early in their curricula in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Knowing the extent to which such changes occur in typical introductory undergraduate courses is important for targeting interventions to increase persistence of underrepresented groups in STEM. We measured social-cognitive-career-theory-relevant variables near the middle and at the end of the 1st semester of a gateway introductory chemistry course and found that women had lower STEM self-efficacy, coping self-efficacy, and STEM interest than did men, even after controlling for actual course performance. Although there were no detrimental changes across the semester for women or men, men experienced a small but significant increase in their perceived support for pursuing a STEM degree, whereas women did not. (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

  16. Supplemental Instruction in Introductory Biology I: Enhancing the Performance and Retention of Underrepresented Minority Students

    PubMed Central

    Peterfreund, Alan R.; Xenos, Samuel P.; Bayliss, Frank; Carnal, Nancy

    2007-01-01

    Supplemental instruction classes have been shown in many studies to enhance performance in the supported courses and even to improve graduation rates. Generally, there has been little evidence of a differential impact on students from different ethnic/racial backgrounds. At San Francisco State University, however, supplemental instruction in the Introductory Biology I class is associated with even more dramatic gains among students from underrepresented minority populations than the gains found among their peers. These gains do not seem to be the product of better students availing themselves of supplemental instruction or other outside factors. The Introductory Biology I class consists of a team-taught lecture component, taught in a large lecture classroom, and a laboratory component where students participate in smaller lab sections. Students are expected to master an understanding of basic concepts, content, and vocabulary in biology as well as gain laboratory investigation skills and experience applying scientific methodology. In this context, supplemental instruction classes are cooperative learning environments where students participate in learning activities that complement the course material, focusing on student misconceptions and difficulties, construction of a scaffolded knowledge base, applications involving problem solving, and articulation of constructs with peers. PMID:17785403

  17. An Innovative Approach to Science Instruction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McNamara, Bernard; Burnham, Chris; Bridges, Bill

    1994-12-01

    This paper reports on the results of a multi-year NSF project aimed at undergraduate instruction in astronomy. Its goal is to help incoming university students, particularly from minority groups, develop critical thinking skills and a better understanding of basic scientific principles. The project employs the techniques of ``Writing Across the Curriculum" to counter student math and science anxiety. It employs a workbook consisting of four sections: (1) basic skills exercises, (2) an evolving cosmology, (3) chapter reading responses, and (4) an astronomical scrapbook. Experience with this workbook in introductory astronomy classes at NMSU is discussed, along with suggestions on how the exercises can be incorporated into beginning astronomy classes at other universities.

  18. BOOK REVIEW: Introductory Nanoscience: Physical and Chemical Concepts Introductory Nanoscience: Physical and Chemical Concepts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bich Ha, Nguyen

    2011-12-01

    Having grown rapidly during the last two decades, and successfully synthesized the achievements of physics, chemistry, life science as well as information and computational science and technology, nanoscience and nanotechnology have emerged as interdisciplinary fields of modern science and technology with various prospective applications towards environmental protection and the sustainable development of industry, agriculture, public health etc. At the present time, there exist many textbooks, monographs and encyclopedias on nanoscience and nanotechnology. They present to readers the whole process of development from the emergence of new scientific ideas to comprehensive studies of concrete subjects. They are useful for experienced scientists in nanoscience and nanotechnology as well as related scientific disciplines. However, there are very few textbooks on nanoscience and nanotechnology for beginners—senior undergraduate and junior graduate students. Published by Garland Science in August 2011, Introductory Nanoscience: Physical and Chemical Concepts by Masaru Kuno is one of these rare textbooks. The purpose of this book is twofold. In a pedagogical manner the author presents the basic physical and chemical concepts of nanoscience and nanotechnology. Students with a background knowledge in general chemistry and semiclassical quantum physics can easily understand these concepts. On the other hand, by carefully studying the content of this textbook, readers can learn how to derive a large number of formulae and expressions which they will often use in their study as well as in their future research work. A distinguishing feature of the book is the inclusion of a large number of thought problems at the end of each chapter for demonstrating how to calculate the numerical values of almost all physical quantities involved in the theoretical and experimental studies of all subjects of nanoscience and nanotechnology. The author has successfully achieved both of the main aims of the textbook. The book consists of 15 chapters. According to their detailed contents they can be divided into three groups. In five chapters forming the first group (Introduction, Structure, Length Scales, Types of Nanostructures, Absorption and Emission Basics) the author presents the notions, definitions and concepts related to nanosystems, as well as the length scales of all their physical parameters. The contents of these chapters have been written for all readers studying any undergraduate academic programme in natural sciences and engineering. The subsequent seven chapters forming the second group (A Quantum Mechanics Review, Model Quantum Mechanics Problems, Additional Model Problems, Density of States, Bands, Time-Dependent Perturbation Theory, Interband Transitions) contain a comprehensive and easily understandable presentation of the theoretical basics of nanoscience. The last three chapters (Synthesis, Characterization, Applications) contain presentations on the fundamental methods in the experimental studies and applications of nanosystems. This book is very useful not only for training beginners in research and engineering in nanoscience and nanotechnology, but also for attracting the interest of specialists in other scientific disciplines to the application of the achievements of this new emerging multidisciplinary scientific field.

  19. An Introductory "How-to" Guide for Incorporating Microbiome Research into Integrative and Comparative Biology.

    PubMed

    Kohl, Kevin D

    2017-10-01

    Research on host-associated microbial communities has grown rapidly. Despite the great body of work, inclusion of microbiota-related questions into integrative and comparative biology is still lagging behind other disciplines. The purpose of this paper is to offer an introduction into the basic tools and techniques of host-microbe research. Specifically, what considerations should be made before embarking on such projects (types of samples, types of controls)? How is microbiome data analyzed and integrated with data measured from the hosts? How can researchers experimentally manipulate the microbiome? With this information, integrative and comparative biologists should be able to include host-microbe studies into their research and push the boundaries of both fields. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology. All rights reserved. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  20. Ultrasound: medical imaging and beyond (an invited review).

    PubMed

    Azhari, Haim

    2012-09-01

    Medical applications of ultrasound were first investigated about seventy years ago. It has rapidly evolved since then, becoming an essential tool in medical imaging. Ultrasound ability to provide real time images with frame rates exceeding several hundred frames per second allows one to view rapid anatomical changes as well as to guide minimal invasive procedures. By, combining Doppler techniques with anatomical images ultrasound provides real time quantitative flow information as well. It is portable, versatile, cost effective and considered sufficiently hazardless to monitor pregnancy. Moreover, ultrasound has the unique capacity to offer therapeutic capabilities in addition to its outstanding imaging abilities. It can be used for physiotherapy, lithotripsy, and thermal ablation, and recent studies have demonstrated its usefulness in drug delivery, gene therapy and molecular imaging. The purpose of this article is to provide an introductory review of the field covering briefly topics from basic physics through current imaging methods to therapeutic applications.

  1. Engineering education at a new public university in Brazil: first students' contact with engineering methods

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Romero, Jesus Franklin A.; Leite, Patrícia; Mantovani, Gerson L.; Lanfredi, Alexandre J. C.; Martins-Filho, Luiz S.

    2011-06-01

    This paper describes the experience of an introductory discipline to the engineering curricula at the Brazilian Federal University of ABC (UFABC). The university offers a common basic curriculum that must be accomplished by every student and can be followed by professionalising courses. The discipline 'Introduction to Engineering' presents the basis of the engineering career, methods and thinking together with professional commitments and regulations. The objective is to help students to consciously choose their careers, minimising the precocity problem in deciding a professional future. The discipline methodology includes activities proposed by the TryEngineering website and from Brazilian engineering councils. Lectures with invited professors introduce UFABC engineering specialities: Aerospace, Bioengineering, Energy, Environmental & Urban, Information, Instrumentation & Automation & Robotics, Management, Materials. This paper reports the proposed activities, results obtained by the students, a methodology critical analysis and the impacts on the following steps of students embracing an engineering career.

  2. Using Social Network Measures in Wildlife Disease Ecology, Epidemiology, and Management

    PubMed Central

    Silk, Matthew J.; Croft, Darren P.; Delahay, Richard J.; Hodgson, David J.; Boots, Mike; Weber, Nicola; McDonald, Robbie A.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract Contact networks, behavioral interactions, and shared use of space can all have important implications for the spread of disease in animals. Social networks enable the quantification of complex patterns of interactions; therefore, network analysis is becoming increasingly widespread in the study of infectious disease in animals, including wildlife. We present an introductory guide to using social-network-analytical approaches in wildlife disease ecology, epidemiology, and management. We focus on providing detailed practical guidance for the use of basic descriptive network measures by suggesting the research questions to which each technique is best suited and detailing the software available for each. We also discuss how using network approaches can be used beyond the study of social contacts and across a range of spatial and temporal scales. Finally, we integrate these approaches to examine how network analysis can be used to inform the implementation and monitoring of effective disease management strategies. PMID:28596616

  3. Developing an Introductory Level MIS Project in Accordance with AACSB Assurance of Learning Standard 15

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schwieger, Dana

    2012-01-01

    As part of the introductory level management information systems (MIS) course, faculty are asked to introduce the students to MIS concepts as well as to help them develop technology-related skills benefitting them in their course work and beyond. However, with a vast array of MIS topics that could be covered and class time at a premium, it is…

  4. Effects of a Cooperative Learning Strategy on Academic Achievement and Personal and Social Attributes in an Introductory College Computer Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Necessary, James R.; Wilhite, Stephen C.

    This study was designed to assess the effects of a specific cooperative learning strategy in an introductory college business information systems course. The cooperative approach's impact on student achievement and on a number of personal and social attributes was examined. A total of 117 college sophomores and freshmen enrolled in 3 sections of…

  5. Note regarding the word 'behavior' in glossaries of introductory textbooks, dictionaries, and encyclopedias devoted to psychology.

    PubMed

    Abramson, Charles I; Place, Aaron J

    2005-10-01

    Glossaries of introductory textbooks in psychology, biology, and animal behavior were surveyed to find whether they induded the word 'behavior'. In addition to texts, encyclopedias and dictionaries devoted to the study of behavior were also surveyed. Of the 138 tests sampled across all three fields, only 38 (27%) included the term 'behavior' in their glossaries. Of the 15 encyclopedias and dictionaries surveyed, only 5 defined 'behavior'. To assess whether the term 'behavior' has disappeared from textbook glossaries or whether it has usually been absent, we sampled 23 introductory psychology texts written from 1886 to 1958. Only two texts contained glossaries, and the word 'behavior' was defined in both. An informal survey was conducted of students enrolled in introductory classes in psychology, biology, and animal behavior to provide data on the consistency of definitions. Students were asked to "define the word 'behavior'." Analysis indicated the definition was dependent upon the course. We suggest that future introductory textbook authors and editors of psychology-based dictionaries and encyclopedias include 'behavior' in their glossaries.

  6. Helping Struggling Students in Introductory Biology: A Peer-Tutoring Approach That Improves Performance, Perception, and Retention

    PubMed Central

    Batz, Zachary; Olsen, Brian J.; Dumont, Jonathan; Dastoor, Farahad; Smith, Michelle K.

    2015-01-01

    The high attrition rate among science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors has long been an area of concern for institutions and educational researchers. The transition from introductory to advanced courses has been identified as a particularly “leaky” point along the STEM pipeline, and students who struggle early in an introductory STEM course are predominantly at risk. Peer-tutoring programs offered to all students in a course have been widely found to help STEM students during this critical transition, but hiring a sufficient number of tutors may not be an option for some institutions. As an alternative, this study examines the viability of an optional peer-tutoring program offered to students who are struggling in a large-enrollment, introductory biology course. Struggling students who regularly attended peer tutoring increased exam performance, expert-like perceptions of biology, and course persistence relative to their struggling peers who were not attending the peer-tutoring sessions. The results of this study provide information to instructors who want to design targeted academic assistance for students who are struggling in introductory courses. PMID:25976652

  7. Developing information fluency in introductory biology students in the context of an investigative laboratory.

    PubMed

    Lindquester, Gary J; Burks, Romi L; Jaslow, Carolyn R

    2005-01-01

    Students of biology must learn the scientific method for generating information in the field. Concurrently, they should learn how information is reported and accessed. We developed a progressive set of exercises for the undergraduate introductory biology laboratory that combine these objectives. Pre- and postassessments of approximately 100 students suggest that increases occurred, some statistically significant, in the number of students using various library-related resources, in the numbers and confidence level of students using various technologies, and in the numbers and confidence levels of students involved in various activities related to the scientific method. Following this course, students should be better prepared for more advanced and independent study.

  8. Developing Information Fluency in Introductory Biology Students in the Context of an Investigative Laboratory

    PubMed Central

    2005-01-01

    Students of biology must learn the scientific method for generating information in the field. Concurrently, they should learn how information is reported and accessed. We developed a progressive set of exercises for the undergraduate introductory biology laboratory that combine these objectives. Pre- and postassessments of approximately 100 students suggest that increases occurred, some statistically significant, in the number of students using various library-related resources, in the numbers and confidence level of students using various technologies, and in the numbers and confidence levels of students involved in various activities related to the scientific method. Following this course, students should be better prepared for more advanced and independent study. PMID:15746979

  9. Perceived Internet health literacy of HIV-positive people through the provision of a computer and Internet health education intervention.

    PubMed

    Robinson, Christie; Graham, Joy

    2010-12-01

    The objective of this study was to assess perceived Internet health literacy of HIV-positive people before and after an Internet health information educational intervention. We developed a 50-min educational intervention on basic computer skills and online health information evaluation. We administered a demographic survey and a validated health literacy survey (eHEALS) at baseline, immediately after, and 3 months the class. Changes in scores between the surveys were analysed. Eighteen HIV-positive participants were included in the final analysis. Before the intervention, most respondents' assessment of their ability to access Internet health information was unfavourable. Post-intervention, the majority of respondents agreed or strongly agreed they were able to access and identify Internet health information resources. The increase in self-assessed skill level was statistically significant for all eight items eHEALS (P < 0.05). Scores for the 3-month follow-up survey remained higher than pre-intervention scores for most items. Providing an interdisciplinary brief introductory Internet health information educational intervention HIV-positive people with baseline low perceived Internet health literacy significantly improves confidence in finding and using Internet health information resources. Studies with larger numbers of participants should be undertaken to determine if brief interventions improve self-care, patient outcomes and use of emergency services. © 2010 The authors. Health Information and Libraries Journal © 2010 Health Libraries Group.

  10. Library Research in Criminal Justice. An Introduction for Students at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York. Second Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lutzker, Marilyn

    This introductory guide to basic library research tools in the field of criminal justice was compiled for use by students at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice as part of the Library Instruction Program. Included are chapters on devising a search strategy; the use of the card catalog; encyclopedia and dictionaries; indexes and abstracts;…

  11. A Comparison of an Audio-Lingual Program and an Audio-Lingual-Visual Program for Beginning French Instruction in Grade Eight.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Di Francesco, Loretta; Smith, Philip D., Jr.

    1971-01-01

    This evaluation of two programs of materials used in introductory French classes tests two basic hypotheses: (1) pretests are good predictors of subsequent French achievement at the junior high school level, and (2) students in different programs will achieve to the same degree on a final French test. Results of the groups using the "audiolingual"…

  12. Continuing Spanish in Grade Five: MLA Teacher's Guide. A Course of Study Including Methods, Materials, and Aids for Teaching Conversational Spanish to Fifth-Grade Children.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thompson, Mary P.; And Others

    This is the third volume in a series of texts in a conversational Spanish course for elementary school children. Nine basic units present introductory linguistic patterns and cultural insights into the lives of the Spanish people. They include: (1) Review Unit 1, ("Cristobal Colon"), (2) Review Unit 2, (3) "Un Accidente,""La Navidad," and…

  13. How Effective Is Our Teaching?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wyckoff, S.

    2002-05-01

    More than 90% of U.S. university introductory physics courses are taught using lecture methods in spite of the large amount of research indicating that interactive teaching is considerably more effective. A brief overview of physics education research will be given, together with relevant connections with astronomy education research. Large enrollment classrooms have in the past presented obstacles to converting from lecture to interactive teaching. However, classroom communication systems (CCS) now provide a cost-effective way to convert any science classroom into an interactive learning environment. A pretest-posttest study using control groups of ten large enrollment introductory physics courses will be described. A new instrument, the Physics Concept Survey (PCS), developed to measure student understanding of basic concepts will be described, together with a classroom observation instrument, the Reformed Teaching Observation Protocol (RTOP), for measuring the extent that interactive teaching is used in a science classroom. We find that student conceptual understanding was enhanced by a factor of three in the interactive classrooms compared with the traditional lecture (control) courses. Moreover, a correlation between the PCS normalized gains and the RTOP scores is indicative that the interaction in the classrooms is the cause of the students' improved learning of basic physics concepts. This research was funded by the NSF (DUE 9453610).

  14. [Approach to Evidence-based Medicine Exercises Using Flipped Teaching: Introductory Education for Clinical Practice for 4th-Year Pharmacy Students].

    PubMed

    Onda, Mitsuko; Takagaki, Nobumasa

    2018-01-01

    　Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences has included an evidence-based medicine (EBM) exercise in the introductory education for clinical practice for 4th-year pharmacy students since 2015. The purpose of this exercise is to learn the process of practice and basic concepts of EBM, especially to cultivate the practical ability to solve patients' problems and answer their questions. Additionally, in 2016, we have attempted flipped teaching. The students are instructed to review the basic knowledge necessary for active learning in this exercise by watching video teaching materials and to bring reports summarizing the contents on the flipped teaching days. The program includes short lectures [overview of EBM, document retrieval, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and systematic review], exercises [patient, intervention, comparison, outcome (PICO) structuring, critical appraisal of papers in small groups with tutors], and presentations. The program includes: step 1, PICO structuring based on scenarios; step 2, critical appraisal of English-language papers on RCTs using evaluation worksheets; and step 3, reviewing the results of the PICO exercise with patients. The results of the review are shared among groups through general discussion. In this symposium, I discuss students' attitudes, the effectiveness of small group discussions using flipped teaching, and future challenges to be addressed in this program.

  15. Electronic Materials Science

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Irene, Eugene A.

    2005-02-01

    A thorough introduction to fundamental principles and applications From its beginnings in metallurgy and ceramics, materials science now encompasses such high- tech fields as microelectronics, polymers, biomaterials, and nanotechnology. Electronic Materials Science presents the fundamentals of the subject in a detailed fashion for a multidisciplinary audience. Offering a higher-level treatment than an undergraduate textbook provides, this text benefits students and practitioners not only in electronics and optical materials science, but also in additional cutting-edge fields like polymers and biomaterials. Readers with a basic understanding of physical chemistry or physics will appreciate the text's sophisticated presentation of today's materials science. Instructive derivations of important formulae, usually omitted in an introductory text, are included here. This feature offers a useful glimpse into the foundations of how the discipline understands such topics as defects, phase equilibria, and mechanical properties. Additionally, concepts such as reciprocal space, electron energy band theory, and thermodynamics enter the discussion earlier and in a more robust fashion than in other texts. Electronic Materials Science also features: An orientation towards industry and academia drawn from the author's experience in both arenas Information on applications in semiconductors, optoelectronics, photocells, and nanoelectronics Problem sets and important references throughout Flexibility for various pedagogical needs Treating the subject with more depth than any other introductory text, Electronic Materials Science prepares graduate and upper-level undergraduate students for advanced topics in the discipline and gives scientists in associated disciplines a clear review of the field and its leading technologies.

  16. Introductory Disciplines of Astronomy in Undergraduation Geography in Brazilian Public Universities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Henrique Azevedo Sobreira, Paulo

    2015-08-01

    There are some previous works about introductory disciplines of Astronomy in higher education in various undergraduation at Brazilian universities, but this is a specific research for Geography courses in public universities. Some undergraduate courses in Geography in Brazil offer introductory disciplines of Astronomy, since the second half of the twentieth century. This work presents an updated survey on the topic, and it proposes an effort at the national level, for the benefit of the increase in introductory disciplines of Astronomy in undergraduation in Geography. The data collected from public universities were obtained from the consultation of the websites of state universities, federal and county in 2012, 2013 and 2015, for information on the Geography courses and, among them, those with disciplines of Astronomy. The results show that there are 94 undergraduation in Geography courses in public universities, 12 of them had introductory disciplines of Astronomy until 2012 and 2013. In 2015 three of these disciplines were canceled which reduced to 9 universities. There were 23 undergraduation in Geography courses in 10 bachelor degrees and 14 education degrees with Astronomy disciplines. At 2015 it decreased to 20 in 5 bachelors and 8 education degrees. There are two undergraduation Geography courses with two introductory disciplines of Astronomy, while the other 18 offer only one discipline. The inclusion of introductory disciplines of Astronomy depends on the actions of professors' groups who works in undergraduation Geography courses, and of the astronomers initiative to offering them. The ideal is that the astronomers who actuate like professors in universities, normally in Math, Physics, Technologies, Enginnering and Science courses, they would can help and offer introductory disciplines in Astronomy for undergraduation in Geography courses.

  17. Pedagogic discourse in introductory classes: Multi-dimensional analysis of textbooks and lectures in biology and macroeconomics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Carkin, Susan

    The broad goal of this study is to represent the linguistic variation of textbooks and lectures, the primary input for student learning---and sometimes the sole input in the large introductory classes which characterize General Education at many state universities. Computer techniques are used to analyze a corpus of textbooks and lectures from first-year university classes in macroeconomics and biology. These spoken and written variants are compared to each other as well as to benchmark texts from other multi-dimensional studies in order to examine their patterns, relations, and functions. A corpus consisting of 147,000 words was created from macroeconomics and biology lectures at a medium-large state university and from a set of nationally "best-selling" textbooks used in these same introductory survey courses. The corpus was analyzed using multi-dimensional methodology (Biber, 1988). The analysis consists of both empirical and qualitative phases. Quantitative analyses are undertaken on the linguistic features, their patterns of co-occurrence, and on the contextual elements of classrooms and textbooks. The contextual analysis is used to functionally interpret the statistical patterns of co-occurrence along five dimensions of textual variation, demonstrating patterns of difference and similarity with reference to text excerpts. Results of the analysis suggest that academic discourse is far from monolithic. Pedagogic discourse in introductory classes varies by modality and discipline, but not always in the directions expected. In the present study the most abstract texts were biology lectures---more abstract than written genres of academic prose and more abstract than introductory textbooks. Academic lectures in both disciplines, monologues which carry a heavy informational load, were extremely interactive, more like conversation than academic prose. A third finding suggests that introductory survey textbooks differ from those used in upper division classes by being relatively less marked for information density, abstraction, and non-overt argumentation. In addition to the findings mentioned here, numerous other relationships among the texts exhibit complex patterns of variation related to a number of situational variables. Pedagogical implications are discussed in relation to General Education courses, differing student populations, and the reading and listening demands which students encounter in large introductory classes in the university.

  18. Using computers to overcome math-phobia in an introductory course in musical acoustics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Piacsek, Andrew A.

    2002-11-01

    In recent years, the desktop computer has acquired the signal processing and visualization capabilities once obtained only with expensive specialized equipment. With the appropriate A/D card and software, a PC can behave like an oscilloscope, a real-time signal analyzer, a function generator, and a synthesizer, with both audio and visual outputs. In addition, the computer can be used to visualize specific wave behavior, such as superposition and standing waves, refraction, dispersion, etc. These capabilities make the computer an invaluable tool to teach basic acoustic principles to students with very poor math skills. In this paper I describe my approach to teaching the introductory-level Physics of Musical Sound at Central Washington University, in which very few science students enroll. Emphasis is placed on how vizualization with computers can help students appreciate and apply quantitative methods for analyzing sound.

  19. 77 FR 15757 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-03-16

    ... require sellers of consumer commodities to keep records that substantiate ``cents off,'' ``introductory... competitively sensitive information such as costs, sales statistics, inventories, formulas, patterns devices...

  20. Florida VIEW 1992-94. Careers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Florida State Dept. of Education, Tallahassee. Div. of Vocational, Adult, and Community Education.

    Information on 417 occupations is provided in this book. Introductory materials describe Florida Vital Information for Education and Work (VIEW), a complete system of career, education, and financial aid information; printed information and additional support materials; and use of this book. Four indexes appear first. The interest/occupational…

  1. Cosmic secrets

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schommers, W.

    1. The absolute truth. 1.1. Final truth. 1.2. Two important questions. 1.3. Why does the cosmos exist? 1.4. Are the laws of nature independent of the observer's own nature? 1.5. Self0indulgence was dominant. 1.6. Newton's mechanics and its overestimation. 1.7. Scientific realism. 1.8. An important principle: as little outside world as possible. 1.9. Inside world and outside world. 1.10. Principal questions. 1.11. How does science progress? 1.12. Final remarks -- 2. The projection principle. 2.1. The elements of space and time. 2.2. Relationship between matter and space-time. 2.3. Two relevant features. 2.4. Two kinds of "objects". 2.5. Perception processes. 2.6. Inside world and outside world. 2.7. The influence of evolution. 2.8. Information in the picture versus information in basic reality (outside reality). 2.9. Other biological systems. 2.10. How many (geometrical) objects can be in space-time? 2.11. Two types of space-time? 2.12. Summary -- 3. Fictitious realities. 3.1. Conventional quantum theory: critical remarks. 3.2. The projection principle in connection with fictitious realities. 3.3. Distribution of information. 3.4. Basic transformation effects. 3.5. Pictures within projection theory. 3.6. Auxiliary construction. 3.7. Basic laws. 3.8. Extension of conventional quantum theory. 3.9. Only processes are relevant! 3.10. Interactions. 3.11. Distance-independent interactions. 3.12. Arbitrary jumps within (r, t)-space. 3.13.Mach's principle: preliminary remarks. 3.14. Can a lone, elementary object exist in the cosmos? 3.15. The meaning of the potential functions. 3.16. Time. 3.17. Time travel in physics. 3.18. Summary -- 4. Basic reality and levels of reality. 4.1. Hard objects. 4.2. General physical laws. 4.3. States of mind. 4.4. Outside world and basic reality. 4.5. Objective processes. 4.6. Observations. 4.7. No interactions within (r, t)-space. 4.8. The general cannot be deduced from the particular. 4.9. Remarks on the notion "world equation". 4.10. On the anthropic principle. 4.11. Summary -- 5. Cosmological constant and physical reality. 5.1. Introductory remarks. 5.2. The cosmological constant. 5.3. Critical remarks on basic quantum theory. 5.4. Projection theory and the emptying. 5.5. Artificial vacuum effects!? 5.6. On the observation of physically real process. 5.7. Curved spaces. 5.8. Flatness and horizon problem. 5.8. Summary -- 6. Final remarks.

  2. Instructional strategies for online introductory college physics based on learning styles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ekwue, Eleazer U.

    The practical nature of physics and its reliance on mathematical presentations and problem solving pose a challenge toward presentation of the course in an online environment for effective learning experience. Most first-time introductory college physics students fail to grasp the basic concepts of the course and the problem solving skills if the instructional strategy used to deliver the course is not compatible with the learners' preferred learning styles. This study investigates the effect of four instructional strategies based on four learning styles (listening, reading, iconic, and direct-experience) to improve learning for introductory college physics in an online environment. Learning styles of 146 participants were determined with Canfield Learning Style inventory. Of the 85 learners who completed the study, research results showed a statistically significant increase in learning performance following the online instruction in all four learning style groups. No statistically significant differences in learning were found among the four groups. However, greater significant academic improvement was found among learners with iconic and direct-experience modes of learning. Learners in all four groups expressed that the design of the unit presentation to match their individual learning styles contributed most to their learning experience. They were satisfied with learning a new physics concept online that, in their opinion, is either comparable or better than an instructor-led classroom experience. Findings from this study suggest that learners' performance and satisfaction in an online introductory physics course could be improved by using instructional designs that are tailored to learners' preferred ways of learning. It could contribute toward the challenge of providing viable online physics instruction in colleges and universities.

  3. Connecting biology and organic chemistry introductory laboratory courses through a collaborative research project.

    PubMed

    Boltax, Ariana L; Armanious, Stephanie; Kosinski-Collins, Melissa S; Pontrello, Jason K

    2015-01-01

    Modern research often requires collaboration of experts in fields, such as math, chemistry, biology, physics, and computer science to develop unique solutions to common problems. Traditional introductory undergraduate laboratory curricula in the sciences often do not emphasize connections possible between the various disciplines. We designed an interdisciplinary, medically relevant, project intended to help students see connections between chemistry and biology. Second term organic chemistry laboratory students designed and synthesized potential polymer inhibitors or inducers of polyglutamine protein aggregation. The use of novel target compounds added the uncertainty of scientific research to the project. Biology laboratory students then tested the novel potential pharmaceuticals in Huntington's disease model assays, using in vitro polyglutamine peptide aggregation and in vivo lethality studies in Drosophila. Students read articles from the primary literature describing the system from both chemical and biological perspectives. Assessment revealed that students emerged from both courses with a deeper understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of biology and chemistry and a heightened interest in basic research. The design of this collaborative project for introductory biology and organic chemistry labs demonstrated how the local interests and expertise at a university can be drawn from to create an effective way to integrate these introductory courses. Rather than simply presenting a series of experiments to be replicated, we hope that our efforts will inspire other scientists to think about how some aspect of authentic work can be brought into their own courses, and we also welcome additional collaborations to extend the scope of the scientific exploration. © 2015 The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

  4. Continuing Spanish in Grade Four: MLA Teacher's Guide. A Course of Study Including Methods, Materials, and Aids for Teaching Conversational Spanish to Fourth-Grade Children.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thompson, Mary P.; And Others

    This is the second volume in a series of texts in a conversational Spanish course for elementary school children. Fourteen basic units present introductory linguistic patterns and cultural insights into the lives of the Spanish people. They include: (1) Review Unit 1, (2) Review Unit 2, (3) Special Unit A--"Cristobal Colon," (4) Review Unit 3, (5)…

  5. Software engineering and the role of Ada: Executive seminar

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Freedman, Glenn B.

    1987-01-01

    The objective was to introduce the basic terminology and concepts of software engineering and Ada. The life cycle model is reviewed. The application of the goals and principles of software engineering is applied. An introductory understanding of the features of the Ada language is gained. Topics addressed include: the software crises; the mandate of the Space Station Program; software life cycle model; software engineering; and Ada under the software engineering umbrella.

  6. Pepper's Ghost

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Greenslade, Thomas B.

    2011-09-01

    Without applications of physics such as counter-weighted sets and backdrops, inclined planes, stage lighting instruments, and other mechanisms for deus ex machina, dramatic productions would revert to the words only—fine for Shakespeare and Becket, but not good for audiences who are accustomed to experiencing plays with the eye as well as the ear. Pepper's Ghost is a 19th-century stage illusion, based on basic optical principles, that can find its way into your introductory classroom.

  7. Giddy up & Go: Discovering Horses Activities. Level 1. 4-H Skills for Life Animal Series. National 4-H Curriculum. BU-08053

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Neiberger-Miller, Ami

    2004-01-01

    This is the first in a series of five horse project activity guides for youth. Levels 1-3 focus on "horse-less" activities, while Levels 4 and 5 zero in on riding and horsemanship. Each guide has an achievement program to encourage youth to learn and develop life skills. This guide focuses on the introductory basics and familiarizes youth with…

  8. Class modality, student characteristics, and performance in a community college introductory STEM course

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fogle, Thomas Ty

    Research on introductory STEM course performance has indicated that student characteristics (age, ethnicity and gender) and Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) can be predictive of student performance, and by implication, a correlation among these factors can help determine course design interventions to help certain types of students perform well in introductory STEM courses. The basis of this study was a community college Visual Basic programming course taught in both online and hybrid format. Beginning students in this course represented a diverse population residing in a large, mid-western, city and surrounding communities. Many of these students were defined as "at-Risk" or "non-traditional, which generally means any combination of socio-economic, cultural, family and employment factors that indicate a student is non-traditional. Research has shown these students struggle academically in technologically dense STEM courses, and may require student services and support to achieve their individual performance goals. The overall number in the study range was 392 distance students and 287 blended course students. The main question of this research was to determine to what extent student characteristics in a community college context, and previous success, as measured in overall G.P.A., were related to course performance in an introductory Visual Basic programming (STEM) course; and, whether or not a combination of these factors and course modality was predictive of success. The study employed a quantitative, quasi-experimental design to assess whether students' course performance was linked to course modality, student characteristics and overall G.P.A. The results indicated that the only predictor of student performance was overall G.P.A. Despite the research analyzed in Chapter 2, there was no statistically significant relationship to modality, age, ethnicity, or gender to performance in the course. Cognitive load is significant in a computer programming course and it was theorized that would be expanded in an online context. However, the results of the analysis showed that course modality did not affect the chances of students performing well. Internal validity constraints may have contributed to the results, as the course is highly controlled and modularized in both online and hybrid format, and taught by few instructors, all of whom are available for face to face problem solving for both online and hybrid students.

  9. Improving quantitative skills in introductory geoscience courses at a four-year public institution using online math modules

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gordon, E. S.

    2011-12-01

    Fitchburg State University has a diverse student population comprised largely of students traditionally underrepresented in higher education, including first-generation, low-income, and/or students with disabilities. Approximately half of our incoming students require developmental math coursework, but often enroll in science classes prior to completing those courses. Since our introductory geoscience courses (Oceanography, Meteorology, Geology, Earth Systems Science) do not have prerequisites, many students who take them lack basic math skills, but are taking these courses alongside science majors. In order to provide supplemental math instruction without sacrificing time for content, "The Math You Need, When You Need It (TMYN), a set of online math tutorials placed in a geoscience context, will be implemented in three of our introductory courses (Oceanography, Meteorology, and Earth Systems Science) during Fall, 2011. Students will complete 5-6 modules asynchronously, the topics of which include graphing skills, calculating rates, unit conversions, and rearranging equations. Assessment of quantitative skills will be tracked with students' pre- and post-test results, as well as individual module quiz scores. In addition, student assessment results from Oceanography will be compared to student data from Academic Year 2010-11, during which quantitative skills were evaluated with pre- and post-test questions, but students did not receive online supplemental instruction.

  10. Developing an Undergraduate Public Health Introductory Core Course Series

    PubMed Central

    Nelson-Hurwitz, Denise C.; Tagorda, Michelle; Kehl, Lisa; Buchthal, Opal V.; Braun, Kathryn L.

    2018-01-01

    The number of undergraduate public health education programs is increasing, but few publications provide examples of introductory public health courses that provide foundational knowledge and meet 2016 Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) accreditation standards. This article presents the development and testing of a three-course, introductory series in public health at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM). Development was informed by best pedagogical practices in education, web review of existing programs, literature review, key informant interviews, and accreditation standards. Student mastery of required concepts, domains, and competencies is assessed through testing and class assignments. Data from course evaluations, students' exit questionnaires at graduation, and faculty feedback were used to continuously evolve and adapt the curriculum. The three-course series—including Introduction to Public Health, Public Health Issues in Hawai‘i, and Introduction to Global Health—was designed to provide incoming undergraduate public health students with a foundation in local, national, and global public health concepts and domains, while improving their skills in public health communication and information literacy. Data from class assignments, examinations, and later coursework suggest students are mastering the course materials and gaining required competencies. Data from course evaluation and exit questionnaires suggest that the students appreciate the series' approach and the challenge to apply course concepts locally and globally in subsequent courses. This foundational public health series provides a model for an introductory course series that can be implemented with existing resources by most programs, meets the new CEPH requirements, is well-received by students, and prepares students well for upper-division public health courses. PMID:29892596

  11. Developing an Undergraduate Public Health Introductory Core Course Series.

    PubMed

    Nelson-Hurwitz, Denise C; Tagorda, Michelle; Kehl, Lisa; Buchthal, Opal V; Braun, Kathryn L

    2018-01-01

    The number of undergraduate public health education programs is increasing, but few publications provide examples of introductory public health courses that provide foundational knowledge and meet 2016 Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) accreditation standards. This article presents the development and testing of a three-course, introductory series in public health at the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa (UHM). Development was informed by best pedagogical practices in education, web review of existing programs, literature review, key informant interviews, and accreditation standards. Student mastery of required concepts, domains, and competencies is assessed through testing and class assignments. Data from course evaluations, students' exit questionnaires at graduation, and faculty feedback were used to continuously evolve and adapt the curriculum. The three-course series-including Introduction to Public Health, Public Health Issues in Hawai'i, and Introduction to Global Health-was designed to provide incoming undergraduate public health students with a foundation in local, national, and global public health concepts and domains, while improving their skills in public health communication and information literacy. Data from class assignments, examinations, and later coursework suggest students are mastering the course materials and gaining required competencies. Data from course evaluation and exit questionnaires suggest that the students appreciate the series' approach and the challenge to apply course concepts locally and globally in subsequent courses. This foundational public health series provides a model for an introductory course series that can be implemented with existing resources by most programs, meets the new CEPH requirements, is well-received by students, and prepares students well for upper-division public health courses.

  12. Radiological Dispersion Devices and Basic Radiation Science

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bevelacqua, Joseph John

    2010-05-01

    Introductory physics courses present the basic concepts of radioactivity and an overview of nuclear physics that emphasizes the basic decay relationship and the various types of emitted radiation. Although this presentation provides insight into radiological science, it often fails to interest students to explore these concepts in a more rigorous manner. One reason for limited student interest is the failure to link the discussion to topics of current interest. The author has found that presenting this material with a link to radiological dispersion devices (RDDs), or dirty bombs, and their associated health effects provides added motivation for students. The events of Sept. 11, 2001, and periodic media focus on RDDs heighten student interest from both a scientific curiosity as well as a personal protection perspective. This article presents a framework for a more interesting discussion of the basics of radiation science and their associated health effects. The presentation can be integrated with existing radioactivity lectures or added as a supplementary or enrichment activity.

  13. Mycology Guidebook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stevens, Russell B., Ed.

    This guidebook provides information related to developing laboratories for an introductory college-level course in mycology. This information will enable mycology instructors to include information on less-familiar organisms, to diversify their courses by introducing aspects of fungi other than the more strictly taxonomic and morphologic, and to…

  14. Introductory guide to CVISN

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1999-05-01

    This guide is designed to provide state administrators of motor carrier programs with information on safety, credentials, fuel tax and size and weight regulation as part of the Commercial Vehicle Information Systems and Networks (CVISN) Program. It d...

  15. Navy Career Education Diffusion Project: State of Oregon. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McDermott, Michael M.

    The final report describes a project to research, develop, and field test Navy occupational information for inclusion into the Oregon Career Information System (CIS), a computer-assisted career education program. Five sections include: (1) introductory information; (2) a discussion of the preparation of Navy occupational information and reviewing…

  16. 75 FR 54059 - Extension of Filing Accommodation for Static Pool Information in Filings With Respect to Asset...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-09-03

    ... information could include a significant amount of statistical information that would be difficult to file... required static pool information. Given the large amount of statistical information involved, commentators....; and 18 U.S.C. 1350. * * * * * 2. Amend Sec. 232.312 paragraph (a) introductory text by removing...

  17. Architectural Design Propaedeutics in Russia: History and Prospects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, I. S.

    2017-11-01

    Architectural design propaedeutics is the introductory course of the composition basics which largely determines the process of professional training of an architect and a designer and the result of their work in the form of artistically meaningful artificial human environment. The article gives a brief overview of the history of propedeutics development in Russia, the experience of application and the prospects of development of the methods used to teach the basics of composition to future professionals. The article considered the main direction of the VKHUTEMAS development, Moscow Architectural Institute. Further, the paper identifies he connection of propedeutics with the architectural and design practice of the corresponding period. The article addresses to the author’s personal experiences related to the composition basics learning at Moscow Architectural Institute in the 70-ies of the last century. Besides, it presents the examples of the works made by the students from South Ural State University at the Chair of Design and Fine Arts.

  18. Information Literacy and the Introductory Management Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Leigh, Jennifer S. A.; Gibbon, Cynthia A.

    2008-01-01

    This article proposes that the integration of information literacy standards into the management classroom can address underdeveloped student research strategies and promote effective use of print, digital, and free Web resources. Incorporating information literacy can support management educators in their need to balance disciplinary content,…

  19. Information System Plan.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McIntyre, Chuck

    Prepared for review and discussion by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges (CCC), this report provides background and recommendations for the refinement, expansion, and increased use of the information system of the CCC Chancellor's Office. Following introductory material proposing an expanded scope of the information system…

  20. Student-initiated revision in child health.

    PubMed

    Alfaham, M; Gray, O P; Davies, D P

    1994-03-01

    Most teaching of child health in Cardiff takes place in block attachments of 8 weeks. There is an introductory seminar of 2 days followed by a 6-week clinical attachment in a district general hospital in Wales, and then a revision period of one week designed to help students formalize and structure their basic knowledge and to clarify aspects of child health which they may have had difficulty in understanding. The revision programme has to take into account: the short time available, the small number of teaching staff, the most relevant basic knowledge and active participation by the student. This paper describes how this week has been improved through the use of student-initiated revision (SIR). The students' appraisal of this revision and in particular SIR is presented.

  1. The Disproportionate and Potentially Negative Influence of Research Universities on the Quality of Geoscience Education

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Samson, P. J.

    2010-12-01

    There is a large and growing body of research indicating that post-secondary education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields is failing to prepare citizens for the 21st century economy. Introductory STEM courses are vital for preparing science majors for their fields of study and are the only exposure to science many college students will receive, but the quality of teaching in these courses is often not informed by research on teaching and learning. Research universities play an especially prominent role in the design of introductory courses. While research and doctoral universities account for only about 6% of all higher education institutions, they confer 32 per cent of the baccalaureate degrees, and 56 per cent of the baccalaureates earned by recent recipients of science and engineering doctorates. By assuming that larger introductory classes occur at research institutions one can estimate that a dominant number of students receiving introductory instruction in the geosciences are probably occurring at research institutions. Moreover, research universities produce the majority of tenure-track faculty who will later teach at four-year colleges, so the role of research institutions in the influence of introductory course design is expected to be disproportionately large. While introductory courses at research universities play a influential role in how such courses are designed, the teaching of introductory courses is too often viewed as an undesirable assignment for instructors at those institutions. The effort seems unrewarding with incentives for improving teaching at research institutions perceived as modest at best, if not negative. It is commonly perceived that teaching introductory courses will decrease opportunities for teaching higher-level courses to graduate students and/or to conduct research. Furthermore, even for those interested in improving their pedagogical methods, current approaches to professional development are generally difficult to scale and/or costly to institutions and outside instructors' normal workflow. This presentation reports on the results of surveys of research university instructors in an attempt to quantify the state of the introductory course. The surveys attempt to identify common barriers to improvement. Based on these surveys strategies for how to best implement systemic change in introductory courses at research universities are presented in the hope of stimulating discussion and a call to action.

  2. Information Resources Management: An Overview for Educators.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Daniel, Evelyn H.

    This paper presents an overview of the emerging information resources management (IRM) concept and suggests reasons why IRM would be a useful framework for educational institutions. An introductory look at current information problems precedes a review of definitions of information and IRM in the literature, and a definition of IRM as used in this…

  3. Evaluation of a University Online Information Literacy Unit

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Crawford, Nicole; Broertjes, Andrew

    2010-01-01

    Arts IRIS (Introductory Research and Information Skills) is a compulsory online information literacy unit for commencing students in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at The University of Western Australia (UWA). The aim of Arts IRIS is to provide students with a foundation in research and information literacy skills for studying…

  4. Reporting Manual for Florida Community Colleges.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Florida State Board of Community Colleges, Tallahassee.

    Uniform procedures, terminology, definitions, forms, and instructions are presented to aid individual Florida community colleges in completing state reporting requirements. Following introductory information concerning the Community College Management Information System (CCMIS) the manual explains the purpose and characteristics of the Community…

  5. Interdisciplinary Introductory Course in Bioinformatics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kortsarts, Yana; Morris, Robert W.; Utell, Janine M.

    2010-01-01

    Bioinformatics is a relatively new interdisciplinary field that integrates computer science, mathematics, biology, and information technology to manage, analyze, and understand biological, biochemical and biophysical information. We present our experience in teaching an interdisciplinary course, Introduction to Bioinformatics, which was developed…

  6. Dynamic Information and Library Processing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Salton, Gerard

    This book provides an introduction to automated information services: collection, analysis, classification, storage, retrieval, transmission, and dissemination. An introductory chapter is followed by an overview of mechanized processes for acquisitions, cataloging, and circulation. Automatic indexing and abstracting methods are covered, followed…

  7. Innovations in an Accounting Information Systems Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shaoul, Jean

    A new approach to teaching an introductory accounting information systems course is outlined and the potential of this approach for integrating computers into the accounting curriculum at Manchester University (England) is demonstrated. Specifically, the use of a small inventory recording system and database in an accounting information course is…

  8. Accelerating Student Learning of Technology Terms: "The Crossword Puzzle Exercise"

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Whisenand, Thomas G.; Dunphy, Steven M.

    2010-01-01

    The authors suggest using an alternative teaching methodology to impart knowledge regarding information systems phraseology and vocabulary. Specifically, a series of crossword puzzles or scrabbles are used to present information system (IS) terminology to students in an introductory business information systems course. The puzzle terms and answers…

  9. Learning and Teaching Information Technology--Computer Skills in Context. ERIC Digest.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Eisenberg, Michael B.; Johnson, Doug

    This digest describes an integrated approach to teaching computer skills in K-12 schools. The introductory section discusses the importance of integrating information skills into the curriculum. "Technology Skills for Information Problem Solving: A Curriculum Based on the Big6 Skills Approach" (Michael B. Eisenberg, Doug Johnson, and…

  10. Harmonization of Training in Librarianship, Information Science and Archives.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Paris (France). General Information Programme.

    This pamphlet is designed to show why there are many advantages in a harmonized approach to the training of archivists, librarians, and specialists in information science and what these advantages are. Following introductory discussions of the concept of harmonization, a brief history traces Unesco's role in training information professionals in…

  11. Mathematics Preparation and Success in Introductory College Science Courses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Avallone, L. M.; Geiger, L. C.; Luebke, A. E.

    2008-12-01

    It is a long-held belief that adequate mathematics preparation is a key to success in introductory college science courses. Indeed, a number of recent studies have tested mathematics "fluency" and compared that to performance in introductory physics or chemistry courses. At the University of Colorado at Boulder, we administered a twenty-question math assessment to incoming first-year students as part of orientation registration. The intent of this tool was to provide information for advising new college students about their readiness for college-level science courses, both those for science majors and those for non-scientists. In this presentation we describe the results of the mathematics assessment for two incoming classes in the College of Arts and Sciences at CU-Boulder (about 9,000 students) and its predictive capabilities for success in introductory science courses. We also analyze student performance in these courses (i.e., course grade) with respect to ACT and/or SAT scores. We will present data on the relative success of students in college science courses both with and without prior college-level mathematics courses as well.

  12. [Classification in medicine. An introductory reflection on its aim and object].

    PubMed

    Giere, W

    2007-07-01

    Human beings are born with the ability to recognize Gestalt and to classify. However, all classifications depend on their circumstances and intentions. There is no ultimate classification, and there is no one correct classification in medicine either. Examples for classifications of diagnoses, symptoms and procedures are discussed. The path to gaining knowledge and the basic difference between collecting data (patient file) and sorting data (register) will be illustrated using the BAIK information model. Additionally the model shows how the doctor can profit from the active electronic patient file which automatically offers him other relevant information for his current decision and saves time. "Without classification no new knowledge, no new knowledge through classification". This paradox will be solved eventually: a change of paradigms requires the overcoming of the currently valid classification system in medicine as well. Finally more precise recommendations will be given on how doctors can be freed from the burden of the need to classify and how the whole health system can gain much more valid data without limiting the doctors' freedom and creativity through co-ordinated use of IT, all while saving money at the same time.

  13. Modelling digital thunder

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Blanco, Francesco; La Rocca, Paola; Petta, Catia; Riggi, Francesco

    2009-01-01

    An educational model simulation of the sound produced by lightning in the sky has been employed to demonstrate realistic signatures of thunder and its connection to the particular structure of the lightning channel. Algorithms used in the past have been revisited and implemented, making use of current computer techniques. The basic properties of the mathematical model, together with typical results and suggestions for additional developments are discussed. The paper is intended as a teaching aid for students and teachers in the context of introductory physics courses at university level.

  14. GEOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS OF WELL LOGS: AN INTRODUCTORY BIBLIOGRAPHY AND SURVEY OF THE WELL LOGGING LITERATURE THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1986 ARRANGED BY SUBJECT.

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Prensky, Stephen E.

    1987-01-01

    This report includes over 1,350 individual citations as well as a first-author index. The purpose of this bibliography is twofold, 1) to provide a basic, first-stop resource on well logging which the non-specialist, i. e. , geoscientist, can consult and, 2) to provide a reference on geologic applications for the non-geoscientist, i. e. , log analyst or petroleum engineer, as well as for the geoscientist.

  15. A remote sensing computer-assisted learning tool developed using the unified modeling language

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Friedrich, J.; Karslioglu, M. O.

    The goal of this work has been to create an easy-to-use and simple-to-make learning tool for remote sensing at an introductory level. Many students struggle to comprehend what seems to be a very basic knowledge of digital images, image processing and image arithmetic, for example. Because professional programs are generally too complex and overwhelming for beginners and often not tailored to the specific needs of a course regarding functionality, a computer-assisted learning (CAL) program was developed based on the unified modeling language (UML), the present standard for object-oriented (OO) system development. A major advantage of this approach is an easier transition from modeling to coding of such an application, if modern UML tools are being used. After introducing the constructed UML model, its implementation is briefly described followed by a series of learning exercises. They illustrate how the resulting CAL tool supports students taking an introductory course in remote sensing at the author's institution.

  16. “Workshop Astronomy” at Dickinson College

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Morgan, Windsor A., Jr.

    2006-12-01

    Dickinson College, a 2400-student liberal arts college in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is recognized for the development of Workshop Physics. This innovative, calculus-based introductory course combines physics lectures and laboratories with integrated hands-on, small-group sessions. It allows students to do experiments, so that they will make their own observations and, with the guidance of the professor discover the principles of physics themselves. Since spring 2006, I have been developing an introductory solar-system astronomy course in the “Workshop” format at Dickinson. Students participate in discussions with their classmates and investigate astronomical concepts with computer simulations and guided inquiry. I emphasize “practical” astronomy (such as lunar phases, sky motions, and seasons) and physics concepts (such as density and Doppler shift); thus, my students become familiar with the basics of astronomy before developing a better understanding of the solar system. In my paper, I will discuss class activities and will evaluate their efficacy based on a comparison with traditionally-taught astronomy courses.

  17. Human Brains Engaged in Rat Brains: Student-driven Neuroanatomy Research in an Introductory Biology Lab Course.

    PubMed

    Gardner, Stephanie M; Adedokun, Omolola A; Weaver, Gabriela C; Bartlett, Edward L

    2011-01-01

    Inquiry-based laboratory instruction has been shown to actively engage students in the content and skills being taught. These courses are further intended to teach students not only what is known, but also the process by which investigators come to know it. We sought to take this approach one step further and incorporate novel research questions into an inquiry-based laboratory model early in the undergraduate course of study. In this research-based introductory laboratory course, first-year students acquired basic lab skills not just for their own sake, but rather within the context of a research question of a member of the faculty. Student projects investigated potential neuroanatomical changes in animal models of dyslexia and aging and included measurements of neuron numbers and levels and distribution of neuronal proteins. Students played an active role in designing and implementing an experimental plan, explored data analysis techniques, and reflected on the results that they obtained in scholarly forms such as research papers and a departmental poster session. Student feedback on this approach has been extremely positive, and the data collected were research quality preliminary data that are being actively pursued for further study. Based on our encouraging experiences, we conclude that designing an introductory course around novel research, including some assessments modeled after scholarly practices, provides motivation and excitement for the students, instills good scientific habits, and can potentially benefit departmental research.

  18. Making the Introductory Meteorology Class Relevant in a Minority Serving Community College

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Marchese, P. J.; Tremberger, G.; Bluestone, C.

    2008-12-01

    Queensborough Community College (QCC), a constituent campus of the City University of New York (CUNY), has modified the introductory Meteorology Class lecture and lab to include active learning activities and discovery based learning. The modules were developed at QCC and other 4 year colleges and designed to introduce basic physical concepts important in meteorology. The modules consisted of either interactive lecture demonstrations or discovery-based activities. The discovery based activities are intended to have students become familiar with scientific investigation. Students engage in formulating hypotheses, developing and carrying out experiments, and analyzing scientific data. These activities differ from traditional lab experiments in that they avoid "cookbook" procedures and emphasize having the students learn about physical concepts by applying the scientific method. During the interactive lecture demonstrations the instructor describes an experiment/phenomenon that is to be demonstrated in class. Students discuss the phenomenon based on their experiences and make a prediction about the outcome. The class then runs the experiment, makes observations, and compares the expected results to the actual outcome. As a result of these activities students in the introductory Meteorology class scored higher in exams questions measuring conceptual understanding, as well as factual knowledge. Lower scoring students demonstrated the greatest benefit, while the better students had little (or no) changes. All students also had higher self-efficacy scores after the intervention, compared to an unmodified class.

  19. An Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Space Physics Course: Understanding the Process of Science Through One Field's Colorful History

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lopez, Ramon E.

    1996-01-01

    Science education in this country is in its greatest period of ferment since the post-Sputnik frenzy a generation ago. In that earlier time, however, educators' emphasis was on producing more scientists and engineers. Today we recognize that all Americans need a good science background. The ability to observe, measure, think quantitatively, and reach logical conclusions based on available evidence is a set of skills that everyone entering the workforce needs to acquire if our country is to be competitive in a global economy. Moreover, as public policy increasingly crystallizes around scientific issues, it is critical that citizens be educated in science so that they may provide informed debate and on these issues. In order to develop this idea more fully, I proposed to teach a historically based course about space physics as an honors course at the University of Maryland-College Park (UMCP). The honors program at UMCP was established to foster broad-based undergraduate courses that utilize innovative teaching techniques to provide exemplary education to a select group of students. I designed an introductory course that would have four basic goals: to acquaint students with geomagnetic and auroral phenomena and their relationship to the space environment; to examine issues related to the history of science using the evolution of the field as an example; to develop familiarity with basic skills such as describing and interpreting observations, analyzing scientific papers, and communicating the results of their own research; and to provide some understanding of basic physics, especially those aspect that play a role in the near-earth space environment.

  20. Current Events via Electronic Media: An Instructional Tool in a General Education Geology Course

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Flood, T. P.

    2008-12-01

    St. Norbert College (SNC) is a liberal arts college in the Green Bay Metropolitan area with an enrollment of approximately 2100 students. All students are required to take one science course with a laboratory component as part of the general education program. Approximately 40% of all SNC students take introductory geology. Class size for this course is approximately 35 students. Each faculty member teaches one section per semester in a smart classroom A synthesis of current events via electronic media is an excellent pedagogical tool for the introductory geology course. An on-going informal survey of my introductory geology class indicates that between 75- 85% of all students in the class, mostly freshman and sophomores, do not follow the news on a regular basis in any format, i.e. print, internet, or television. Consequently, most are unaware of current scientific topics, events, trends, and relevancy. To address this issue, and develop a positive habit of the mind, a technique called In-the-News-Making-News (INMN) is employed. Each class period begins with a scientifically-related (mostly geology) online news article displayed on an overhead screen. The articles are drawn from a variety of sources that include international sites such as the BBC and CBC; national sites such as PBS, New York Times, and CNN; and local sites such as the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and the Green Bay Press Gazette. After perusing the article, additional information is often acquired by "Google" to help supplement and clarify the original article. An interactive discussion follows. Topics that are typically covered include: global climate change, basic scientific and technological discoveries, paleontology/evolution, natural disasters, mineral/ energy/ water resources, funding for science, space exploration, and other. Ancillary areas that are often touched on in the conversation include ethics, politics, economics, philosophy, education, geography, culture, or other. INMN addresses several key goals of our general education program. Significantly, it develops critical thinking and analysis of content. For example, aspects of an article commonly addressed include: What is the main point of the article? What is the data that supports the main point? How good is the data and how was it derived (i.e. not all data is created equal)? What assumptions are involved? What is the quality of the assumptions? What part of the article is data and what part is interpretation? INMN also highlights the relevancy and excitement inherent in science, and is valuable for continually reinforcing the methodology of science. Formal feedback, from end of the semester SNC evaluations, is strongly positive.

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