Faculty - BARBARA J. HOWARD

BARBARA J. HOWARD Associate Professor, MT(ASCP)

Director: Programs in Clinical Laboratory Science; Institute for Successful Science Teaching Phone: (202) 319-5270      FAX: (202) 319-5721 e-mail: howardb@cua.edu

EDUCATION:

D.A., Medical Technology, The Catholic University of America

M.T.S., Medical Technology, The Catholic University of America

TEACHING INTERESTS:

The Human Body for Non-Science Majors

Environmental Science for Non-Science Majors

Science Pedagogy in Elementary Schools

Ecology

PROFESSIONAL INTERESTS:

My research over the past few years has focused on environmental toxicology.  In association with the University of Maryland and the Department of Chemistry at CUA, I studied the headwater streams at Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park to assess their vulnerability to environmental damage.  Our studies showed streams that were high in aluminum were correlated with lower macroinvertebrate numbers and diversity.  Streams with lower aluminum generally showed the opposite results.  We hope to investigate the precise mechanisms of this toxicity and the parameters that influence it.

 

During the past few years, I have become involved in evaluating the most effective ways to teach science and how to improve scientific literacy in general. Most recently, I have directed a project to improve science teaching in DC schools by preparing teachers to understand substantive scientific concepts and by demonstrating more effective pedagogical strategies for communicating this knowledge.  I also direct the Institute for Successful Science Teaching which offers science workshops here at CUA to elementary, middle, and high school teachers. 

 

Trained as a clinical microbiologist, I continue to maintain my interest and expertise in that field as Director of the Clinical Laboratory Science Programs.

 

FUNDING:

Recent funding has included grants from 3M Foundation, American Honda Foundation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the National Science Foundation.

 

RECENT PUBLICATIONS:

1.  Howard, BJ, Barkett, A, Haube, S and Lamp, WL: Ecological Assessment of EPT Taxa in Headwater Streams at Harpers Ferry National Park (in progress).

2.  Howard, BJ, Caldwell, B, Barkatt, A, Haube, S and Lamp, WL: Ecological Assessment of Diptera  in Headwater Streams at Harpers Ferry National park (in progress).

3.  Howard, BJ: Improving Science Literacy in Urban Elementary Schools (in progress).

4.  Howard, B.J., J. F. Keiser, A. S. Weissfeld, T.F. Smith, and R.C. Tilton: Clinical and Pathogenic Microbiology, C.V. Mosby, St. Louis. 2^nd Ed., 1994.