Reports on the results of a conference of leaders in science education research held at the University of California, Berkeley, January 16-20, 1986. Describes the themes that emerged from the disucssions and makes four recommendations intended to encourage the development of an integrated research base in science education. (TW)

Describes the use of a microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) in teaching the concepts of heat and temperature to eighth grade students. Discusses the advantages of being able to instantly display the results of their experimentation with the use of temperature and light probes, and heat pulsors. (TW)

Investigated were children's reactions when allowed to choose their own apparatus and perform experiments with appropriate directions available. Few students invented their own experiments; most followed the available printed instructions. (SL)

Forty-five educators, mathematicians, scientists, cognitive scientists, and curriculum and technology experts met during January 16-19, 1986, in an attempt to synthesize the current state of knowledge about science education and to recommend actions designed to strengthen the field. This report describes the themes that emerged from the…

Examines (1) how students evaluate information obtained in the science laboratory; (2) the effects of use of microcomputer-based laboratory; and, (3) the effects of explicit instruction on critical evaluation skills. Discusses results in terms of students' propensity to accept incorrect graphs and in terms of the effect of the enhanced instruction…

To increase the connection between educational research and educational practice, a process called "curriculum reformulation" was used to incorporate recent advances in research on learning and instruction into science classroom experiences. The cognitive demands of a thermodynamics curriculum were successively refined while maintaining…

Examines a free choice program and ways seventh graders choose their own activities in five science categories: (1) Mechanical; (2) Physics; (3) Chemistry; (4) Biology, and (5) Combinational. Results suggest that the challenge format for the activities allows students to practice what they have learned and consolidate their knowledge. (HM)

Discusses the gender differences revealed on the science content items of the National Assessment of Educational Progress Science Assessment. Examines explanations for the differences, including differential prior instruction, differential response to uncertainty, differential response to figurally presented items, and different attitudes toward…

This book discusses making science accessible to all students, noting the role of computers as learning partners. It provides theoretical and practical insights into learning, assessment, and technology, exploring innovative ways to support students' multiple pathways in learning. It draws on experience with the Computers as Learning Partner…

Three questions guided an evaluation of sixth and eighth grade science enrichment activities: (1) Does a free choice interactive program affect cognitive abilities? (2) Do students in a free choice program make predictable selections of activities based on their age, sex, or ability level? and (3) Are specific student choices associated with…

Suggested in this paper are priorities for the role of cognitive psychology in science/mathematics curriculum development and teacher education. Areas discussed include: (1) science education as a national concern; (2) how rapid advances in science knowledge and cognitive psychological knowledge have created a sense of urgency about developing a…

Reports on a study that investigated the effects of various instructional practices on programming proficiency focusing on characteristics of Pascal classes. States that instructional practices involve extensive on-line access, explicit instruction, and extensive feedback. (ML)