Examined are two aspects of science education--the nature of science and curriculum reform. Contemporary views on the tentative nature of science and a generative model of learning are synthesized. (KR)

This document is part of a second set of reports that focus on science and mathematics education for young adolescents. It addresses the salient issues of improving middle grade science education, emphasizing the importance of the teacher as learner and facilitator. If overall improvement is indeed to occur, the various parts of the system must…

This report is a blueprint for the creation of an effective, national program of science education for elementary school children in the United States. It draws together information about curriculum, instruction, assessment, and teacher development for elementary science. It was written in response to a widely expressed need to improve education…

This paper presents a viewpoint on educator responsibilities toward helping youth develop the skills necessary to cope with life as well as consideration on how to present science in a safe environment. Discussions include safety in the learning environment, litigation, effective teaching, effective schools, the goals of science, and the mandate…

Some interesting work currently being done in science education research is with scientifically misconceived ideas about the causes and mechanisms of natural phenomena. Though not stated explicitly, it can be inferred from the corpus of this misconception research that an assumption of homogeneity among students is made, even where there is…

Offers a definition of science which emphasizes methodology. Notes that authors of books can encourage scientific thinking by developing imagery, unfolding stories using critical thinking, building stories around science subjects, and developing books that unfold a story while informing the child. (TW)

Aims to clarify the relationship between science education and the science-technology-society (STS) theme and to develop a justification for the inclusion of the STS theme. Examines the current debate over definitions in science education, and provides an historical perspective of science education's purpose as a social institution. (TW)

Offers guidelines for middle and junior high school science education that administrators and/or teachers may use to re-evaluate and upgrade their programs. Addresses concerns related to: special needs of early adolescents, model science programs, model science teachers, materials and resources, and the need for continuing professional…

Discusses salient characteristics of scientific enterprise including laws (natural regularities), explanation and prediction, testability, confirmation, and falsifiability, tentativeness, and professional integrity. Argues that "creation-science" lacks each of these essential characteristics. (JN)

Examines "creation-science" under First Amendment's Establishment Clause, focusing on whether creationist claims were developed through scientific discourse or prepared to advance religious conclusions. Considers whether religious criteria govern selection/organization/interpretation of data and if body of information is intended to encourage…

Considers an aspect of children's thinking and learning: the set of beliefs or expectations they hold about the way natural phenomena occur and how they affect the sense pupils make of experiences we give them in science classes. Implications for instruction are addressed. (Author/SK)

A model is given of the Comprehensive Assessment and Program Planning System (CAPPS) in Indiana. The purpose of diagnostic/prescriptive teaching is discussed within the context of this model. (SA)

Presented are critical comments on the British Schools Council, Science Committee, Programmes of Work 1980-82, and financial allocations to various curriculum and instructional projects. The author's personal frustrations while serving on the Science Committee are also given. (JN)

Argues that children learn science more effectively when teachers begin with the ideas they already hold. Children can arrive at scientific understanding through careful teaching that includes discussion activities, practical investigations, or secondary sources. Getting children to discuss their ideas challenges their thinking and encourages them…

If children are required to make their own sense, then attempting to impart knowledge will fail altogether or result in only superficial short-term learning. Curriculum structure, load in science, and assessment must change for a constructivist approach to flourish in the classroom. Teachers must serve as a guide to students exploring science as a…