Biosocial Problems in Contemporary America: A Course on the Use and Misuse of Scientific Knowledge

Journal Article | June 2007

This writing-intensive seminar for biology majors deals with the social and political implications of biological explanations for social phenomena. The class focuses on critical thinking, evaluation of data, and the…

Illustrating the Role of Latex Gloves as Barriers to Bacterial and Viral Pathogens: Teaching the Fundamental Concept of Infection Control in Future Health Care Workers

Journal Article | January 1999

Adequate instruction in glove use is an essential component of medical and allied health education. Students are instructed in practical aspects of glove use during clinical training but laboratory demonstrations of…

After the Bell: Life in hot water

Journal Article | December 2000

The mysteries of the sea offer the allure of adventure for scientists of all ages, and advances in technology supply the tools to explore this frontier. Therefore, the Discovery Channel, Woods Hole Oceanographic…

I Want To Be Like . . . Middle School Students' Identification with Scientists on Television

Journal Article | August 2010

This article describes a study funded by the Research on Gender in Science and Engineering (GSE) Program of the National Science Foundation (NSF). The study focused on gaining a better understanding of how middle school…

Under Summer Skies

Journal Article | June 2009

There’s no better way to celebrate 2009, the International Year of Astronomy, than by curling up with a good book under summer skies. To every civilization, in every age, the skies inspired imagination and scientific…

Using Clay Models to Understand Volcanic Mudflows

Journal Article | February 2007

Gravity is a subtle but ubiquitous force that influences nearly all geologic processes from the formation of ores to the flow of glaciers and rivers. Gravity also determines the path some materials take as they flow…

The Distant Exploration of Wolves: Using Technology to Explore Student Questions About Wolves

Journal Article | June 2006

Radio telemetry data available via the internet are used to facilitate long-term inquiry projects. Through these projects, students gain a deeper understanding of specific inquiry and the nature of science, while…

Science Shorts: Understanding Acid Rain

Journal Article | October 2004

You may have heard acid rain mentioned as an environmental problem. It doesn't mean that a strong chemical is raining from the sky. The term acid rain describes rain, snow, or fog that is more acidic than normal…

Kekulé 's Dream and Bunsen's Burner

Journal Article | June 2005

Connecting science to students’ lives has always been a major goal of teachers. Most introductory chemistry or physical science textbooks contain small paragraphs and sidebars about notable scientists or historical…

Science Sampler: Environmental education for at-risk students

Journal Article | September 2003

In too many cases, at-risk students are not included in outside-the-school activities. However, hands-on environmental education experiences can improve student engagement and achievement. This article contains…

A Walk in the Woods

Journal Article | September 2010

The Arnold Arboretum is a public “tree museum” that sits on more than 300 acres of parkland in Boston. Like many public parks, the arboretum uses a percentage of its funding to provide nature education for adults and…

Shrinking Our Footprints

Journal Article | August 2009

In this unit, each student calculates his or her own ecological footprint as the basis for becoming more environmentally friendly. Over two weeks, students analyze their own lifestyles and use their understanding of…

Teaching the Principles of Geomicrobiology and the Process of Experimental Research to Undergraduate and First-Year Graduate Students

Journal Article | November 2008

This article presents a framework for a geomicrobiology course design that has produced impressive gains in students’ contextual knowledge (e.g., Felder and Brent 2004a). The approach centers on the design and execution…

Scope on Safety: Combating corrosion

Journal Article | June 2009

Corrosion is a broad term that applies when something is being broken down due to a chemical reaction. Rust or wet corrosion is a specific type of corrosion where iron or steel reacts with water. Science teachers often…

Case Study: Cats Have Nine Lives, But Only One Liver—The Effects of Acetaminophen

Journal Article | June 2009

This case recounts the story of a student who gave her cat half of a Tylenol tablet not knowing its potential harmful effects. The cat survives, but the incident motivates the student to learn more about the reaction…