Lynne E. Houtz

Nebraska High School Students' Computer Skills and Attitudes.

Abstract The widely held conception based on previous studies is that differences exist between gender and racial groups in their attitudes toward and their usage of computer technology. This study used a survey with many open-ended questions to investigate possible differences between high school males and females and racial groups in coeducational and same-sex schools in Nebraska in their attitudes, use, and career interest in technology. Results indicate some areas of difference and some commonalities between gender and racial groups. Hispanics showed a significantly higher interest in computer careers than any other racial group. Implications for educators are discussed.

Brains Rule! Fun = Learning = Neuroscience Literacy:

Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions is a project designed to improve neuroscience literacy among children and the general public by applying a model where neuroscience professionals transfer knowledge and enthusiasm about neuroscience through fun, engaging hands-on activities. This educational model draws strength from many national and local partnerships of neuroscience professionals to coordinate expositions across the country in a variety of local communities. Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions uses a flexible science fair-like format to engage children in the process of science and teach about neuroscience concepts, facts, and professions. Neuroscience literacy is important to everyday life and helps individuals better understand themselves, make informed decisions about health and drug use, participate knowledgeably in governmental and social issues, and better understand scientific advancements. In this study, children’s ratings of Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions activities were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Analysis of the responses revealed that overall the children perceived the learning activities as fun and interesting and believed that they learned something about the brain and nervous system after engaging in the activities. The Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions education model can be an effective tool in improving neuroscience literacy for both children and adults.

Creighton collaborative health professions partnership.

Creighton University School of Medicine, a private Jesuit institution in Omaha, has included Health Professions Partnership Initiative (HPPI), herein referred to as Creighton Collaborative Health Professions Partnership (CCHPP), as part of its long-term effort to increase the pool of qualified applicants by identifying students early and encouraging their progress through elementary, middle, and high schools and college and professional schools. The program’s principal investigators are both African–American physicians passionately committed to increasing the enrollment of underrepresented minorities into the health sciences.

Assessment Instruments As Predictors Of Success For Children With Hearing Impairment In The Mainstream Classroom: A Fuzzy Mathematics Approach

We use for the first time fuzzy mathematics to aid in the determination of which tests of preschool, hard of hearing and deaf children are the best predictors of success when these students are mainstreamed in the public school system. The techniques are those of group decision making and consensus under fuzzy preferences and fuzzy majority and techniques of fuzzy outranking relations in preference modelling.

Collaboration in teacher education to improve instruction of science for students with special needs

Collaboration between science educators and special educators is essential for the improvement of teaching and learning in an inclusive elementary classroom. This paper describes the successful modeling of collaboration between the science methods professor and the special education professor in preparing their mutual preservice teachers to adapt instruction. Factors leading to the effective partnership are outlined. An example of a science lesson that was modified and jointly presented is included. As a result, preservice teachers effectively collaborated to modify science instruction in practicum classrooms to meet the needs of all learners.