Affective item findings from two national assessments (N=2500 for 1977 assessment; N=2000 for 1983 assessment) are reported and compared. Areas examined include attitudes toward teaching procedures, action of science teachers, current science teacher, and science class. Lists of characteristics of exemplary programs and behaviors of exemplary…

The generative learning model is explored and linked to recent science education research findings. The implications of the model for the teaching and learning of science, the training of science teachers, and science educational research are discussed. (JN)

Proposes four specific actions to maintain science education's viability and plan for its future, focusing on scientific literacy. These proposals are based on: (1) an analysis of historical determinants of federal role in education; (2) interpretation of the Reagan administration's decisions influencing education; and (3) projections for federal…

Compared performance on Piagetian tasks to determine differences between students (N=52): (1) external subjects having access to manipulatives and those not having access, and between internal subjects having access to manipulatives and those not having access. Indicates access to manipulatives benefits those exhibiting externality with respect to…

Investigated was the relationship between spatial visualization and cognitive development in a sample of 88 Australian freshman teacher education students. Results support the hypothesis that enhanced capacity to visualize is an outcome of overall cognitive development. (HM)

Examines the role of metaphors in teaching science. Suggests that when such expressions are used correctly, they can greatly enhance learning. Argues that metaphors also enable students to create new and interesting formations of thought. (CW)

Examines the possible influence of locus of control orientation and its relationship to critical aptitudes and developmental variables. Studies six discriminator variables in order to predict an understanding of the nature of science among preservice elementary teachers with respect to locus of control orientation. (CW)

Describes a study which sought to determine whether differences existed between girls and boys in terms of their concept structure interrelatedness competence (ConSIC) in the areas of physical science, life science, earth sciences, between sciences, within sciences and across all sciences by measuring ConSIC. (ML)

Tested the effectiveness of a program designed to teach children how to conduct and interpret a controlled experiment. Results indicate that the ability to control variables can be taught using the program (which consists of activities related to designing, building, and launching model rockets). (JN)

Reports and discusses data on incentives being considered to improve the quality and quantity of science in precollege institutions. Incentives (organized into several categories) focus on bringing new individuals into science teaching and upgrading those with science teaching assignments who are not trained to teach science. (JN)

Assessed Nussbaum's developmental model (SE 024 045) using a new sample given no special instructions in spherical earth/gravity concepts. Also identified distribution of notions among students (N=159 in grades three to eight), compared distribution of notions at each age level with those in other studies, and explored role of individual…

A longitudinal investigation is being conducted to examine commitment to science (attitudes) and science achievement among adolescents (N=4,500) in relation to individual/family/school influences. Addressed are the investigation's theoretical framework and major variables. Data analyses will serve to explain relationships among…

Tested Ausubel/Novak hypothesis that primary grade students can learn meaningfully certain aspects of science concepts in the "reception learning" model. Revised audio-tutorial instruction unit on earth based on understanding children's misconceptions; assessed impact of revised units with second graders; and compared results to concept…

Reported are the results of a survey conducted to identify the problems of science educators in small and large institutions and perceived solutions to these problems. Recommendations that could assist in ameliorating the problems are also presented. (HM)

Presents the results of a survey study conducted to identify the status of science education in the elementary schools (K-6) of Illinois during the 1975-1976 school year and to establish a data base. Implications of the findings are also included. (HM)