Innovation Abstracts, Volume XVII, 1995.

The abstracts in this volume describe innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the community college. Topics covered include: (1) the use of message mapping for speaking and writing instruction; (2) group projects and portfolios as evaluation tools; (3) helping students become strategic learners; (4) using writing assignments to ensure that students read class materials; (5) using indicators of excellence in institutional outcomes assessment; (6) utilizing technology for professional development and daily communication tasks; (7) a project to help teachers share ideas; (8) the functions of a community college Ombudsman Service; (9) college orientation for new students; (10) providing feedback to students with a word processor; (11) strategies for improving lecture format classes; (12) assigning relevant writing topics based on current events; (13) the validity of prerequisite courses for student success; (14) difficulties of using a controlled vocabulary in electronic research; (15) team teaching; (16) competencies classes; (17) improving teaching effectiveness through self-observation; (18) having students create posters of main ideas of readings; (19) an institute for intercultural understanding to promote diversity; (20) tutoring services at an innovative learning center; (21) the value of interdisciplinary studies; (22) using electronic mail as an evaluation tool; (23) teacher-student collaboration in writing instruction; (24) teaching research skills through interviews of English as a Second Language students; (25) using community-based writing assignments in introductory composition; (26) feedback sessions to discuss exam results with students; (27) strategies for establishing wellness programs; (28) integrating study skills into the college curriculum; (29) grading collaborative activities; (30) the role of grammar in developmental writing classes; and (31) a staff retreat for improving communication skills. (BCY)