Scientific literacy development significantly impacts real-world outcomes, leading to scrutiny of instructional approaches for global reform in science education. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of the Science-Technology-Society (STS) approach in improving students' scientific learning outcomes. A quantitative research design, using…

For the past three decades or so, the field of Science and Technology Studies (STS) has shed light on the interrelationship between modern science and technology, on one side, and contemporary society, on the other. A majority of this knowledge and insights are situated in the context of Western societies, or more precisely, in economically and…

With increased focus on sustainability and socioscientific issues, dealing with issues related to citizenship is now seen as an important element of science education. However, in order to make the world a better place, mere understanding about socioscientific issues is not enough. Action must also be taken. In this study, 35 international gifted…

In light of the recently developed European Union (EU) Biofuels Strategy, the literature is reviewed to examine (a) the coherency of biofuel production with the EU nonindustrial vision of agriculture, and (b) given its insufficient land base, the implications of a proposed bioenergy pact to grow biofuel crops in the developing world to meet EU…

Over the past few years, a push to reverse the overall paltry state of science academies in the developing world has emerged as a central theme in numerous reports and has garnered the attention of a variety of organizations, including The National Academies in the United States. In particular, the establishment and maintenance of well-organized…

Reviews the advent of science in Africa and discusses the possibilities and implications of combining traditional African thought systems with Western science to develop an effective culture for Africa in the 21st century. Contains 62 references. (DDR)

How African societies interpret science and technology in their daily life situations is discussed. The relationship that exists between socioeconomic and political concerns and the transfer of technology is examined. Suggested is a major reorientation and restructuring of science and technology at the domestic and international levels. (KR)

The concept of bridging the digital divide between Africa and the rest of the world draws symbolically on nineteenth century diffusion theories of linear progress and twentieth-century theories of modernization and development. This paper examines information and communication technology (ICT) policies and public-access postings on…

Presents the results of an international comparative study into the status of environmental education. Concludes that the current provisions for environmental education for primary children in Nigeria are insufficient for the development of national programs. Contains 17 references. (DDR)

Describes a course that explores the ways in which geology can have an underlying influence on human events that is much deeper and more subtle than the distribution of resource wealth and geologic hazards. The course revolves around a series of geological topics that have direct relevance to particular prehistoric, historical, political, or…

Describes how government ministries and agencies are attempting to promote the cause of science. Describes the place of science in societies and the need for scientific popularization. States that work has been done in the areas of training, crops, and the establishment of bodies of three kinds. (RT)

Students can participate in worldwide environmental adventures from the classroom. The Puddles to Pondwater software program introduces students to ponds and freshwater creatures worldwide. Students can adopt team members on the Congo Expedition, a group studying the African environment, and follow the expedition via satellite data and…

Examines scientific and traditional African views of the universe. Describes possible interactions between the two systems of thought. Proposes a rational model of instruction for harmonizing the two views. (YP)

The position of science and technology (S&T) in a society changes through time and from one society to another. In developing countries, many young people would like to opt for a career in S&T, while many rich, highly-developed countries notice declining recruitment of students to science and technology studies. In this article, the…

This report of the events at the American Library Association annual conference summarizes presentations and debates on several social issues as well as a manifesto addressing social and ethical problems that was presented at the conference. A list of officers and awards is provided. (CLB)