Historically, science was introduced into the school curriculum to enable students, who were entering university to study science related subjects, to gain some background knowledge before beginning studies at the university level (Fensham, 2008, p 14). Unfortunately this view is still very prevalent among policy-makers and teachers today. And…

The mobility of scientists and the concerns surrounding "brain drain" are not new. Even in the Ptolemic dynasty, the first king set out to attract and influence the movements of scholars to shift the centre of learning from Athens to Alexandria. Yet after all this time, there is still much policy discourse and debate focused on attempting to…

This report is a policy statement for science curriculum and instruction in elementary schools. It describes a set of organizing principles that incorporate what science ought to be taught, and a learning sequence that illustrates how more "hand-on, minds-on" science can become more prevalent in our schools. Chapters included are: (1)…

Argues that universities are failing to prepare students for responsible citizenship in a world being rapidly changed by biotechnology. Calls for bringing together biology and the social sciences in more core courses. (TW)

Discusses an American Chemical Society (ACS)'s report on science education which is a synthesis of a series of policies developed by ACS. Summarizes recommendations in four areas: elementary teacher education; pre-high school curricula; university research funding; and underrepresented populations. (YP)

This book, written by science educators from nine countries, provides a summary of the strengths and weaknesses in practices of science education in schools, and of research in science education. It points out a number of directions that are likely to lead to improvements in the teaching and learning of science if applied in the future. Topics…

Discusses state of chemistry education and new technologies. Reviews recent history of undergraduate chemistry education. Enumerates technologies applicable to chemistry fields. Suggests changes in science courses in higher education. Discusses plans of the National Science Foundation (NSF) stressing funding in chemistry education and chemistry…

The results of the Second International Science Study and the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) science assessments are cited and future job openings in natural sciences and engineering areas are projected. Technology is ever increasing in complexity, yet ninth-grade U.S. students scored second from the bottom on international…

Explored are the following dimensions of scientific literacy: the ethos of modern science and the cumulative achievements of science and technology in the history of the United States and in the nature of contemporary society. Also discussed is the reform movement in science education. (KR)

A review of some of the different forms that biological ethics have taken in the past and of issues which are arising suggests that ethics should be taught as a part of biological education within a framework of history, futures study, training in clear thinking, and the development of empathy. (Author/CW)

Discussed is the narrowness of engineering education in the recent past. A more liberal education for engineers is proposed. The benefits of such an approach, personally, professionally, and to society are described. (CW)

Discussed are the differences between the natural and social science disciplines and the importance of an interdisciplinary approach by the two groups on the subject of science-technology-society (STS). Included is a list of topics that all educated people should know about STS. (KR)

Reports on a survey of the undergraduate programs of 50 engineering schools which was designed to investigate the engineering curriculum with regard to core courses in statics and dynamics. Indicates that only about one-third of the schools require these courses. Argues for their return to the programs. (TW)

Addresses whether or not science laboratory activities should become a thing of the past. Discusses the impact of the curriculum reforms of the 1960s and 1970s, physical restraints which cause teacher overload, rationale, and objectives of laboratory work. (RT)

Considers the importance of the development of fundamental concepts in chemistry. Proposes an "anticipative" chemical education which would foster a more complete understanding of life sciences. Discusses widening the scope of chemistry and providing a better understanding of brain chemistry. (TW)