We conducted a study with introductory and upper-division physics students in a Mexican university to learn how students independently recognize the electric field's main characteristics in the electric field lines diagram and as a source or target representation in conversion processes. We used the theory of registers of semiotic representations…

Responding to the climate crisis requires a large-scale transformation of energy systems away from fossil fuels toward a more distributed, equitable, renewable-based society. The societal benefits of this transformation which could redistribute power, literally and figuratively, go well beyond decarbonization; a renewable society could also be a…

This edited volume presents innovative current research in the field of Science Education. The chapter's deal with a wide variety of topics and research approaches, conducted in a range of contexts and settings. Together they make a strong contribution to knowledge on science teaching and learning. The book consists of selected presentations from…

The video "A Private Universe" evokes surprise and dismay among educators and scientists by demonstrating that even the brightest students fail to grasp a seemingly simple and fundamental concept--the reason for seasons. This literature review describes the findings of 41 studies that collectively illustrate why the concept proves difficult to…

Gives a simple but fuller account of the basis for accurately calculating temperature rise in calorimetry. Points out some misconceptions regarding these calculations. Describes two basic methods, the extrapolation to zero time and the equal area method. Discusses the theoretical basis of each and their underlying assumptions. (CW)

Provides a selected bibliography of items from the periodic literature that pertain to a variety of variables involved in the relationship between science, technology, and society. Includes the address of the author for the purpose of obtaining reprints. (TW)

This volume includes abstracts and abstractors' critiques of 15 published research reports related to elementary, secondary and college science teaching and learning. Topics include: (1) assessing attitudes toward energy conservation; (2) persuasive communications; (3) questioning techniques; (4) teachers' verbal exposition on student…

Discusses the theory and history behind an experiment that will be performed to measure the gravitational forces that effect antimatter. Describes conditions under which the principle of equivalence would be violated or supported. Reviews historical tests of equivalence, current theory and experiments. Presents the design of the new experiment.…

Described is a report outline for geologic reports. Essential elements include title; abstract; introduction; stratigraphy; petrography; geochemistry; petrology; geophysics; structural geology; geologic history; modeling; economics; conclusions; and recommendations. (Author/CW)

Draws a distinction between the terms "heat and work" and "energy" in terms of the teaching of thermodynamics. Gives examples using enthalpy and constant pressure processes, free energy and spontaneity, and free energy and available mechanical energy. Concludes that there is no thermodynamic role for the terms "heat"…

Discusses some of the drawbacks of using a demonstration of the electrolysis of water to illustrate the interconversion between electrical and chemical energy. Illustrates a simple apparatus allowing demonstration of this concept while overcoming these drawbacks. (CW)

Discusses a revised and extended version of the Mulliken electronegativities. Describes applications and limitations implied by this version. (CW)

Discusses a revision and extension of the Mulliken electronegativity scale to consider 50 elements. Describes the calculation of valence-state promotion energies and Mulliken atomic electronegativities and the conversion of Mulliken electronegativities to Pauling units. (CW)

Presents a quantitative treatment of ionization potentials of isoelectronic atoms. By looking at the single-electron view of calculating the total energy of an atom, trends in the screening and effective quantum number parameters are examined. Approaches the question of determining electron affinities. (CW)

One area explored in the second (in-depth) phase of the Learning in Science Project was "children's science," defined as views of the world and the meanings for words that children have and bring with them to science lessons. The investigation reported focuses on the concept of "energy" held by 52 Form 1 to 6 students. Data…