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…

This paper reviews the efforts to put science education into contexts that are considered more meaningful and useful than the classical approach. It focuses on S/T/S (science/technology/society) projects funded by the National Science Foundation, and especially on a project at the University of Iowa. Some of the features of S/T/S programs are…

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…

Describes a program at the University of Iowa which introduces undergraduate engineering students to the rewards and responsibilities of teaching engineering through cooperative education positions as faculty assistants in introductory engineering courses. (TW)

A survey of science teachers was conducted to ascertain their perceptions of global problems, policy issues, and recommendations for curriculum and instruction related to the science-technology-society theme. The focus is on information on implementing the science-technology-society theme in school science programs. (MNS)

This paper was developed to describe and discuss the characteristics of educational settings and school science curriculum in Japan as compared with the United States. Three major aspects of the role of science education are presented. The first is the cultural and societal expectations placed on education. This represents external influences on…

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)

This digest focuses on the impact of the educational reform movement on science education. Topics reviewed are: (1) "What is the message of educational reform?"; (2) "What changes have occurred?" listing increasing graduation requirements and lengthening schooling; (3) "Have educational reform efforts improved…

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)

This paper discusses the development of new curricula, materials, and equipment in Japan. The first section, "The Development of New Curricula," discusses the National Curriculum Council and the improvement of the content of instruction, including basic directions for improvement, the structure and content of school subjects, and the…

Discusses the role of science centers in science education and teacher training. Traces the history of science centers and describes some of the new programmatic thrusts of such facilities. Addresses the raising of standards for science centers. (TW)

Described is the status of science education reform in 1990. Different groups working on change, demographic trends in the US, student anecdotes, lab operations, the role of Sigma Xi, goals set by the state governors, industry efforts, and programs for the improvement of middle school teachers are discussed. (CW)