This learning guide provides detailed information about exploring the planet Mars. The guide covers a variety of topics related to space exploration including: (1) the reasons for exploring Mars; (2) a history of the exploration of and thinking about Mars beginning with the Babylonians and continuing through the Viking missions; (3) the status of…

This digest identifies characteristics of successful higher education programs in environmental studies and trends in environmental studies programs and courses. Characteristics of programs that have continued for the past two decades are listed. Some of the variables associated with programs that have not continued are identified. Recent trends…

This digest discusses the inclusion of "sustainability" concept in environmental education. Topics included are: (1) definiton of sustainability; (2) inclusion of the concept in the curriculum using interdisciplinary approaches; and (3) a list of instructional materials containing the concept at the elementary, secondary, and college…

This teaching guide explores the history of the Chesapeake and Ohio (C & O) National Historic Park, its building and its times. The lesson can be used in units on the early industrial period of U.S. history and in courses on geography or science and technology. Students realize the role canals played in western expansion and in the evolution…

Discussed are applications of robotics in the chemistry laboratory. Highlighted are issues of precision, accuracy, and system integration. Emphasized are the potential benefits of the use of robots to automate laboratory procedures. (CW)

Reviews the history of the steam turbine at sea from the 1880s to modern turbines. Presents several pictures of various types of turbines. (YP)

Explores the role of science, technology, and society (STS) in science education. Examines some STS training exercises designed to help science teachers appreciate the role of science and technology in society. Suggests that the cooperative learning activities, debates, and plays can be used equally well in a social studies classroom. (DK)

There has been considerable discussion in general educational publications about the value of instructional technology, in particular multimedia- or Web-based instruction. Much of the published work thus far has described various features of multimedia systems in an anecdotal manner rather than focusing on an evaluation of multimedia and its use…

This paper described an interdisciplinary course on the interaction between prejudice and the conduct of science. Scientists often possess the same prejudices as others in their culture. Students learn how subtle prejudice can affect the processes of science. This course examines major scientific endeavors that have been influenced by the…

United States patents are a source of historical information with many implications for science teaching. Using patents as science teaching devices has been largely ignored by science educators. Some of these devices can be easily modified for use in today's classrooms; in addition, patents serve as great examples of how our knowledge of science…

This volume contains 35 lessons designed to be used in secondary science classes to introduce the science/technology/society (STS) themes and issues. While the first 11 lessons focus on general STS themes, the other 24 lessons cover specific STS issues that fall under such categories as population growth, water resources, world hunger, food…

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)

Described is the teaching of technology in British secondary schools. Some of the types of technology courses are described and issues and trends related to the teaching of technology are considered. (RH)

Although the attacks of September 11, 2001, present new challenges and priorities for U.S. policy, it is uncertain what direction international relations will take. China's growth and power, Russia's political and economic problems, resentment and corruption in Russia, and global warming effect policymaking. While the war on terrorism may be a…

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)