Comparison of science teacher characteristics revealed that females (N=72) scored higher on measures of science interest and receptivity to change while males (N=273) scored higher on science knowledge indicators and on perceptions of teaching support received. No differences on other measures were noted. Discusses implications related to females'…

In a sample of secondary science teachers and students, a significant relationship was found between nine teacher variables (subject matter knowledge, attitudes, and other descriptive characteristics) and three measures of student achievement and attitude. (MLH)

Describes the environments existing in Southwestern schools having a majority of Native American students. Concludes that the schools have a potential to promote Native American participation in science and mathematics, but they have high teacher turnover and limited amounts of professional contact and communication. (YP)

This document reports on a 6-year study of science education reform, the Scope, Sequence, and Coordination (SS&C) Project. The reform included teacher enhancement activities as well as curricular materials and was designed to help science students achieve the National Research Council's Science Standards (1995). The two components of the study…

Examines the science achievement outcomes for different subgroups of students using different assessment formats designed to measure the level of achievement of the National Science Education Standards. Assessments included a multiple-choice test, a written open-ended test, a hands-on lab skills test, and a hands-on full investigation. (Author/SAH)

This study provides information on science teachers' perception of themselves and their working conditions. A stratified random sample of junior and senior high school science teachers from three regions (12 states) of the United States was selected to respond to a questionnaire and an attitude measure. The questionnaire contained 20 items dealing…

This research study investigated student perception of the social learning environment in biology, chemistry and physics courses. A stratified random sample of secondary schools from three regions was selected. The principal of each sampled school randomly selected a biology, chemistry or physics teacher who, in turn, randomly selected one of his…

Investigated developmental and/or sex components of energy attitudes using Kuhn's Energy Opinionnaire. Results indicate that changes in student attitudes through grade levels are consistent with cognitive and affective development literature and that sex differences are more pronounced in older students (with females having a more external world…

Examines effects of NSF institute participation by secondary teachers. Tests alternative hypotheses that (1) an increase in student achievement associated with teacher inservice work may be accompanied by more positive attitudes towards science; or (2) that teachers may increase their students' achievement at the expense of less positive science…

A comparison of CHEM Study and traditional chemistry classes showed no difference in student achievement in chemistry. The curricula did not have a differential effect on high vs. low ability groups. However, a difference in student attitude toward CHEM study and the traditional text, "Modern Chemistry," was observed. The students found…

Students perception of the social learning environment in secondary school science courses were examined. The different environments that were perceived within the individual science courses and results, examined in light of student interest in science, are discussed. (BT)

Students from 84 biology, 113 chemistry, and 41 physics classes drawn from midwestern states completed the Learning Environment Inventory and the Science Attitude Inventory. One out of ten LEI scales predicted attitude scores of biology and chemistry students, and none was found for physics students. (MLH)

Discussed is whether high school students of teachers trained in the use of open-ended historical experiments dealing with light and sound perceive physics in a more favorable light. The effect of the training on the participants' classrooms on both teachers and students (n=130) is investigated. (KR)

This research study sought to determine the extent of the relationship between teacher characteristics and student outcomes and to provide an indication of the order of importance among the teacher characteristics. A stratified random sample was selected of 236 secondary science teachers including 84 biology teachers, 111 chemistry teachers, and…

Describes a study that reports on the changes from 1983 to 1989 in computer availability and usage in Minnesota science classes in grades 7 through 12. The opinions of computer use held by principals and science teachers are examined, and changes in perceptions are discussed. (nine references) (LRW)