Critical thinking is an essential skill for learners and teachers alike. Therefore, it is essential that educators be given practical strategies for improving their critical thinking skills as well as methods to effectively provide critical thinking skills to their students. The "Handbook of Research on Critical Thinking and Teacher Education…

It is the conclusion of the Committee on Assessing Technological Literacy, a study panel appointed by the National Academy of Engineering and the National Research Council, that very little is known about what children or adults know, can do, and believe about technology. This is because the state of assessment related to technology--or, …

Suggests the integration of science, technology, and society themes into existing elementary social studies curricula. Surveys works representing the philosophical basis for science, technology, and society. Includes suggestions for use of technology and society themes at each grade level of elementary school. (DK)

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 the possibility of the development of the content and form of mathematical education as a tool of democratization in both school and society. Summarizes the social argument and the pedagogical argument of democratization. Analyzes the concept "democratic competence" to create materials at the same time open and empowering. (Author/YP)

Environmental planning requires more than finding the right technology and a source of funds. Planning involves consideration of the social, cultural, economic, and natural environments in which the project occurs. The challenge is to develop sustainable food systems that have reasonable production but do not degrade the resource base and upset…

The purpose of this study was to determine the socio-cultural factors which mitigate against the learning and teaching of science in the secondary school. It was found that authoritarianism, goal structure, the African world-view, societal expectation, and sacredness of science have significant effects on the learning of science. (CW)

The traditional focus of environmental education (EE) in science and technology classes is criticized. EE instruction in the subjects of literature, art, music, home economics, textile design, career guidance, sports, history, political science, social studies, economics, philosophy, and religious instruction is proposed. (CW)

This document contains a set of curriculum standards to guide social studies curricula, teaching, learning tasks, and assessment. These social studies standards are organized to incorporate learning experiences from many disciplines. This book presenting the social studies standards is designed to serve three purposes: (1) to serve as a framework…

Discusses some issues that have long been claimed as the exclusive province of the humanities, such as brotherhood and belonging, the sense of beauty, and the meaning of human. Suggests how a knowledge of science can contribute to understanding. (YP)

This is a summary of a seminar for changing the undergraduate chemical engineering curriculum in India. Identifies and describes biotechnology, materials for structural and microelectronic catalysis, and new separation processes as emerging areas. Evaluates the current curriculum, including basic science, engineering lore, chemical engineering,…

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) has necessarily played a major role in the debates over choices and responsibilities arising from the advances of science and its applications in a rapidly changing world. The editor of this volume has selected articles, editorials, and letters from the AAAS journal "Science," from…

Discusses the recent influx of highly talented immigrant engineers and engineering students into the United States. Identifies some of the opportunities available and benefits to the U.S. economy, along with some of the perceived and real problems posed by this trend. (TW)

The Panel on Technology Education was one of four panels established by the Committee on the Education and Utilization of the Engineer of the National Research Council. This panel's task was to investigate the technology aspects of the preparation of engineers in the United States. This report deals with: (1) "The History of Technical…

The field of biotechnology, and specifically recombinant DNA technology, is transforming the way that many feel about the nature and purposes of biology. This newsletter annual supplement contains several articles addressing the topic of biotechnology and the importance that the topic should be given in science classes. James D. Watson's article,…