Interventions that are based on scientific principles of applied behaviour analysis (ABA) are recognised as effective treatments for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by many governments and professionals (Office of the Surgeon General, 2000; Ontario IBI Initiative, 2002). However, many still view ABA as one of many treatments for…

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)…

Prize-winning scientist and bestselling author James Trefil explains why every U.S. citizen needs to be "scientifically literate" and, therefore, why schools must teach the fundamental principles of scientific literacy to every student. He lays out those principles straightforwardly, so that educators--and everyone who is interested in…

Presents position statements indicating the necessity of laboratory experiences for the teaching and learning of science in the elementary school. Three different perspectives are addressed: research, curriculum, and teaching. (DS)

Discusses the problems, concerns, and conditions encountered by elementary teachers of science. Supports the need for science specialists in elementary schools. Defines the roles, responsibilities, and benefits of a specialist. (ML)

Advocates an integrated course of instruction for the natural sciences which would serve to provide students with reference points for later life. Identifies the aims and fundamental insights of an integrated approach. Offers perspectives on the selection of course topics and the role of the student and teacher. (ML)

This paper examines how the revolution in human thinking, with the smaller revolution in astronomy begun by Nicolus Copernicus, has plunged science educators into the new Age of Information. Examples which illustrate this development and change in human thinking (from Copernicus' time to the present) are provided from such disciplines as…

Contends that classroom teachers can teach science well and offers suggestions for organizing an elementary school staff to ensure that good science teaching would occur. States that each classroom teacher can become a local expert on a particular area of the science curriculum and practice. (ML)

Perspectives are provided on an historical and current analysis of the science curriculum movement. The overview specifically focuses on the curricular patterns of the 1960s which emphasized science instruction for the elite. Suggestions are proposed for defining characteristics that are essential in making a "science for all" approach effective.…

Discussed is the teaching of history related to chemistry in college chemistry courses. Problem areas including naming things and biases (linguistic, geographical, national, religious, ethnic, racial, cultural, sexual, world views, and government) are discussed. Five suggestions for improving instruction are given. (RH)

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)

Suggests a threefold rationale for practical work in science: in developing laboratory skills, in learning to work as a scientist, and in acquiring a feel for phenomena. Three types of pupil practical work (exercises, investigations, and experiences) are then discussed. (Author/JN)

Advice on how to transform a practical idea into a first-class science fair project is provided. How to do scientific research, what to include in a science fair report, how to pick a topic, when to begin, writing the report, and making the display are topics of discussion. (KR)

This paper considers the term "authentic science" and its meaning with respect to science education. In particular, three relevant denotations of authenticity are applied to nine facets of science. These facets include methodological and epistemological aspects of science, personal, private, public, historical, societal and technological…

Summarizes viewpoints on the use of animals in science experiments in the biology classroom, including those of teachers, education researchers, biomedical scientists, science education administrators, and animal welfare advocates. (Author/CS)