During the last quarter of a century, it became abundantly clear that the desired reforms in science teaching and learning could not be accomplished without significant professional development of in-service science teachers. Yet, there was a dearth of effective professional development models that could lead to the kind of instructional reforms…

A model for a two-week summer science teaching workshop is presented. Included are the goals and objectives of the science/technology/society course, the history of the program, and some results for students using these methods. (CW)

This program is called Project ASSIST. ASSIST is an acronym for Alternative Strategies and Services for Improving Science Teaching. ASSIST is involved in teacher education (both inservice and preservice), student programs, and community relations. The model consists of five levels: (1) the coordinating staff; (2) the consulting and advisory…

Discusses the historical development and present status of a current educational trend in science education, Science-Technology-Society (STS). Presents the origins of the trend, a comparison of STS science classes to traditional classes, and general results of studies contrasting STS with traditional teaching. (35 references) (MDH)

Nine years after the National Science Education Standards' release, just how well do science teachers in grades 5 to 8 actually use them to plan content, define improved teaching, and assess real learning? Find out the answers to these key questions in this groundbreaking collection of 15 essays by teachers, researchers, and professors whose…

Lead teachers were a major part of a staff-development program first offered in 1983 for science teachers in Iowa. Later, the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) reform project called Scope, Sequence, and Coordination (SS&C) involved 20 school districts and worked annually with new teachers involved during the 7-year funding period,…

Reviews four studies that provide empirical evidence in favor of the STS approach for students and teachers. Finds a positive effect from STS across the entire curriculum. (Author)