Subject: Interactive Video for Teaching Microscopy

From: [email-masked] (Clinton Hale)
Date: 5 Jun 1996 00:52:11 GMT

Interactive Video Programme for Teaching and Learning Microscopy Skills

	The major aim of laboratory teaching in science is to help 
students become proficient in the acquisition of scientific knowledge and 
the processes of scientific inquiry.  This requires the students to master 
many basic laboratory skills.  One of these fundamental skills is the 
correct use of high power (compound) light microscopes.  We have developed 
(with the assistance of the Schools, Faculty and a C.A.U.T. grant) a 
laboratory-based instructional programme using small group teaching as the 
main focus for teaching and learning.  The programme comprises an 
integrated package of print material, laboratory exercises and video
(VHS-PAL format) sequences set in a discussion-workshop format.  Unlike 
the more common use of video as a passive instructional tool the programme 
uses video sequences to provoke discussion and trigger investigative 
laboratory exercises.  Two versions of the video have been produced:  A 
standard version with voice-over and a second version with voice-over and 
a superimposed Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpreter. The print 
material comprises a Student Manual and Teacher Manual.  The programme 
comprises four segments:  Introduction to Microscopy; Use of the 
Microscope; Trouble Shooting in Microscopy; and Evaluation/Assessment.  
The first two segments consist of a video sequence, written material, 
exercises, and questions to answer.  The third segment consists of video 
of three common problems encountered in microscopy and the solutions, and 
written material which includes solutions as well as a trouble shooting 
chart.  The last segment consists of multiple choice questions for student
self-assessment.  The programme was tested in a Second Semester plant 
science course.  Positive feedback concerning the effectiveness of the 
programme was obtained from the measured increase in the students' 
knowledge (plus their opinions about the programme), elevated student
manipulative skill levels, and the demonstrators' evaluation of the 
programme.  We believe this programme sets a model for the teaching and 
learning of a range of technical skills.

	We are marketing the programme as a package consisting of the 
video, Teacher Manual and multiple copies of the Student Manual.  If you 
are interested please contact us.

Mr. Ken Wong Hee, Mr. Clinton Hale and Dr. Brian Malone

Schools of Botany, Genetics and Human Variation and Zoology
Faculty of Science and Technology
La Trobe University
Bundoora, Victoria, 3083.

Email			[email-masked]
Telephone		+61 (0)3 9479 2221
			+61 (0)3 9479 2256
			+61 (0)3 9479 2248
Facsimile		+61 (0)3 9479 2480

---

From: Victor Neto <[email-masked]>
Date: Thu, 6 Jun 1996 19:29:55 +0100

INTERNATIONAL CASHEW AND COCONUT CONFERENCE
DAR-ES-SALAM 
TANZANIA 
17-21 February 1997

Organised by 
- The Government of Tanzania represented by the 
	Agricultural Research Institutes of 
		Naliendele (cashew) and 
		Mikocheni (coconut) 
-GTZ  (German Agency for Technical Cooperation)
-ODA  (Overseas Development Agency, UK)

Expressions of interest in attending, indicating if they wish to make a
paper or poster presentation, by 31st July 1996.  Further information and
registration forms from the local organiser: 

Dr Alois Kullaya
ARI Mikocheni
PO Box 6226
Dar-es-Salaam
Tanzania

Tel:  +255.51.74384 or 74606..9
Fax:  +255.51.46454 or 75549

=================================================================