We investigate if the gender gap in conceptual understanding in an introductory university physics course can be reduced by using interactive engagement methods that promote in-class interaction, reduce competition, foster collaboration, and emphasize conceptual understanding. To this end we analyzed data from the introductory calculus-based physics course for non-majors at Harvard University taught traditionally or using different degrees of interactive engagement. Our results show that teaching with certain interactive strategies not only yields significantly increased understanding for both males and females, but also reduces the gender gap. In the most interactively taught courses, the pre-instruction gender gap was gone by the end of the semester.
Problem-solving is one of the main goals in science teaching and is something many students find difficult. This research reports on the development, implementation and evaluation of a problem-solving heuristic. This heuristic intends to help students to understand the steps involved in problem solving (metacognitive tool), and to provide them with an organized approach to tackling problems in a systematic way. This approach guides students by means of logical reasoning to make a qualitative representation of the solution of a problem before undertaking calculations, using a 'backwards strategy,' which thus comprises a cognitive tool. The findings of the study suggest that students found the heuristic useful in setting up and solving quantitative chemical problems, and helped them to understand the phases of the problem solving process. Possible applications of the heuristic in the classroom include its use in formative assessment, to identify and to overcome student alternative conceptions, problem-solving in a cooperative environment, and to reduce the gender gap in science.
Lacrimal sac tumors are rare with a clinical presentation that typically includes obstruction of the lacrimal drainage system and epiphora as the most frequent symptom. Cribriform adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is the most common malignant epithelial tumor of the lacrimal gland and minor salivary glands; however, its occurrence in the lacrimal drainage apparatus is extremely rare. Given the rarity of ACC, definitive diagnosis is almost invariably late conferring a poor prognosis. Herein we report the case of a 41-year-old woman with primary ACC of the lacrimal sac and describe the ophthalmological examination, diagnosis, and multidisciplinary treatment of this rare type of tumor.
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