Reports on the results of case studies of science teaching at the elementary level. Two teachers from two elementary schools were studied. Addresses issues in elementary science teaching ranging from the importance at the elementary level to gender differences in science instruction. (TW)

Examines participation in science competitions to determine (1) whether gender differences in participation exist, and (2) whether there are gender differences in the subject areas selected (biological versus physical sciences). North Carolina student participation data were used for the years 1987-88. Gender differences in science competitions…

Explores relationships between role-specific self-concept, as the dependent variable, and demographic data, constituting the independent variables, which included type and level of course, science letter grade from the previous semester, and gender of secondary school students (N=293) of grades 7-12. (CS)

Examines sixth grade students' (n=437) attitudes and experiences related to science. Finds significant gender differences in science experiences, attitudes, and perceptions of science courses and careers. (Contains 33 references.) (Author/WRM)

Investigated whether the Lesotho Introductory Science Improvement Program promoted more positive attitudes toward science and how findings compared with those reported in the literature. Responses from a 57-item questionnaire, obtained from 647 students, indicated no significant differences between experimental (N=172 boys, 167 girls) and control…

This study reports the preferences students expressed in regard to problem-solving modes for resolving environmental problems. There were many differences between students at different grades and between girls and boys. Implications for teaching are suggested. (YP)

Results from meta-analysis of studies on student attitudes toward science are discussed. Includes description of meta-analysis techniques, discussion of attitudes toward science (with a proposed definition), a theoretical framework for studying attitudes which provides a structure for synthesis studies, and recommendations, including those related…

Describes how young women in two different Kenyan schools look at their "science futures"--futures in science courses and careers as they perceive them. Argues that European educational system in Kenya has exploited traditional Kenyan gender roles and has widened rift between opportunities afforded men and women. Concludes that the…

Replicated a study to determine if a sex difference in spatial visualization ability exists among grade six students verging on adolescence and if instruction differentially affects boys/girls at this age. Although instruction significantly affected boys/girls in grades seven to eight, current results do not support the same interaction among…

Examines the variables that influence females' success in science by experimenting with the outcomes of measures of formal reasoning ability. Concludes that women turn away from science for reasons that have little or nothing to do with their reasoning ability. (YP)

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)

Uses base-year data from a nationally representative database (NELS:88) to identify important explanatory factors for gender differences in science performance. Documents a large advantage for boys on the subtest of physical science and a modest advantage for girls in life science. Concludes that laboratory experiences are beneficial for girls'…

Reviews the literature concerning sociocultural factors, teacher influences and experiences that effect girls attitudes about entering science careers. Discusses a model of these influences on girls. Makes recommendations including increased opportunities and encouragement to foster more favorable attitudes toward science and increase science…

Offers a conceptual framework for studying and analyzing potential benefits/disadvantages of homework. Also describes studies (measurement of conditions, practices, and attitudes toward homework). Findings show that students value homework, that few teachers regularly check homework, and that there are sex differences between Arab and Jewish…

Investigated sex-related differences in science achievement from a science assessment project in British Columbia. Findings (obtained from students in grades 4, 8, and 12) confirm earlier findings that boys outscore girls on items testing understanding and application of scientific knowledge. No sex-related differences on process skills were…