Tracing the evolution of critical evaluation skills in students' use of the Internet

This paper documents the evolving uses of the Internet made by public health graduate students and traces the development of their search methods and critical evaluative criteria. Early in the first semester and again six months later, twenty-four graduate students in a problem-based learning curriculum, which emphasizes evidence-based critical thinking skills, were required to describe their most helpful resources and to evaluate these resources critically. The answers were coded for the types of resources the students used, how frequently they were used, and why they were used. Student perception of the usefulness of resources, especially the Internet, and ability to evaluate these resources critically changed greatly. Initially, 96% of the students stated that the Internet was their most helpful resource. Six months later, these students continued to use the Internet; however, it was not their most useful source. At the later point, students had very specific uses for the Internet. Their most frequently used evaluation criterion was the reliability and objectivity of the source of the information. By the end of the first year of study, the majority of the students demonstrated an understanding of the principles of evidence-based practice and applied them to their research and analysis of information resources.     

Self-image and self-awareness: Group activities

As young children develop both physically and emotionally, it is important for adults to present opportunities to them for discussion and reflection upon their growth. The activities below suggest five creative ways to help foster a positive self-image and boost self-awareness. Baby Talk, The Birthday Chair, and Chronicle Growth Chart aid young children in their awareness of the process of growth. Music Pictures introduces a mode for self-expression. Dial-a-Parent integrates the family into the school environment. Children should enjoy the time spent devoted to studying themselves.These activities are from the bookThe Elementary Guidance Connection Charles C. Thomas, Springfield, IL.     

Physical activity,physiological, and psychomotor performance: a study of variously active older adult men

This research examined varying levels of physical activity and psychomotor and physiological function in variously active older men. Very active moderately active, and low active participants were tested on simple (SRT) and choice reaction time (CRT), coincidence-anticipation timing (CAT), and VO2max. No significant differences for age or height were found, although percentage of fat, and weight were statistically different. Active groups were leaner and lighter. VO2max was significantly different between groups, as physically active groups yielded geater values. SRT and CAT also yielded significantly different results with more active participants showing better performance. No between-groups significant differences resulted for CRT. Generally, increased levels of physical activity were related to superior physiological outcomes and improved psychomotor peformance.     

A TO ZOO

Abstract

In response to the University of Calgary librarians' concerns regarding access policies for atypical items, the relevant literature was examined and Canadian universities surveyed. Operating within the specific university context and the general principle of maximization of access and availability, guiding principles and specific criteria were developed for four categories of atypical items (controversial and desirable; items that need special handling; costly items; and collections of special significance). Recommendations are made for controlled access for each category.