Games teachers play

In a Utah school system, some parents are complaining about teachers using games to teach math, pointing out that they think math should be taught and will be better retained by repetitive drilling. Dr. Jan Hayes, professor, educational leadership and expert on teaching techniques, says teachers need to know and employ methods that connect with their learners. "Some students would find the use of games enjoyable ... others may find learning the same content via the computer more enjoyable. Still others may think simple rote learning is the best way to learn." There are many different learning styles, she adds.

Contact Hayes at 615-898-2894.
jhayes@mtsu.edu

Admitting illegal aliens

There is much in the news about universities admitting illegal aliens, even declaring them eligible for in-state tuition. It concerns primarily those who are illegal through no devices of their own but whose parents entered the country illegally. Virginia's attorney general ordered all state institutions not to enroll illegal aliens. On the other hand, Utah has agreed to admit them at in-state tuition. "There is a structure in place to allow these persons to seek legal residency and then become qualified for access to the institution," says Dr. Bob Glenn, vice president, student affairs and vice provost, enrollment management. "The fact that it may be inconvenient and time-consuming does not relieve the individual from the obligation."

Contact Glenn at 615-898-2440.
rglenn@mtsu.edu

Examining health-care options

Dr. Jo Edwards, MTSU Adams Chair of Excellence in Health Care services, who has helped develop education programs for health personnel in Kuwait and Bahrain, says looking at other health-care models may improve the plight of health-care delivery in the U.S. Canada's universal health insurance is based on the social welfare outlook. "The philosophy behind Canada's publicly funded system is that no one should go without necessary medical care for lack of money or access to health facilities or providers." Most doctors in Canada are self-employed in private practice and paid on a fee-for-service basis, she adds.

Contact Edwards at 615-898-2905.
mjedward@mtsu.edu

TR EXTRA: THIS MORNING--10 a.m. in the front of the Cope Building, MTSU President Sidney McPhee and others will be on hand to ride an electric-powered tram, which is on campus for two days on a trial basis--and signifies the wave of the future at MTSU in the areas of moving people more efficiently and raising environmental consciousness. For imformation, call 615-898-2919. Media welcomed.
THROUGH FEB. 27--New York-based photographer Arlene Gottfried's exhibit "The Eternal Light," Baldwin Photographic Gallery. The images feature gospel singers in Harlem. Free and open. For information, call Tom Jimison, gallery director, at 615-898-2085.