Explores qualities of diversity and sharing in the context of science education in light of larger societal goals around public school education. Argues that tensions between competing visions constructs a space in which children actualize fundamentals of a democracy. Presents two stories about children whose additions to elementary science…

This report is a policy statement for science curriculum and instruction in elementary schools. It describes a set of organizing principles that incorporate what science ought to be taught, and a learning sequence that illustrates how more "hand-on, minds-on" science can become more prevalent in our schools. Chapters included are: (1)…

Described is a elementary science program whose goal is to motivate young people in science and promote the importance of scientific thinking and literacy. The importance of students taking math and science courses in elementary school and the need for involvement of engineers with schools is discussed. (KR)

In this paper I examine the phenomenon of university teachers as researchers in their own classrooms. I use examples of three research teams in which we studied: (1) student response to a science and society course; (2) teacher and student perceptions of inquiry in a physics course; and (3) teaching and learning about the nature of science in an…

Scientific literacy seems to be one of those recurring preoccupations in the scene of science education in the United States. As usual, the science education community is not unanimous about there being a crisis. There is either a healthy pluralism and ongoing discussion or a complete lack of orientation in science education on this topic.…

Explains a technocratic ideology--providing the future leaders of society--as main theme of school science reform. Describes the historical frameworks of interpretation. Discusses the growth and failure of the reform. (YP)

This paper provides background information for setting science education goals. The first part, "History of Reform in Science Education," describes: (1) the National Science Foundation (NSF) curriculum materials and their characteristics in the late 1950s; (2) the milestone studies and the status of science education in the 1970s; and (3) the…

Discusses the concept of "science for all" as it has applied to curriculum reform movements in Great Britain. Enumerates areas in science education that are in need of improvement and outlines important aspects of a coherent science curriculum. Suggested are several implications for the learning and teaching of science. (CW)

The perspective of biotechnology and its development in the K-12 technology education curriculum are described. The content curriculum development and implications for activities are discussed. The difference between a curriculum focused on the activities of industry compared to one that addresses technology as it pervades all human endeavors is…

Examines current philosophies and approaches to science instruction. Offers parameters for consideration in making science courses more relevant to industry, technology, and society. Contrasts two approaches to science education. (ML)

Exposes concerns related to physics in the period of mandatory education levels. Discussed are primary science, the transition from primary to secondary, content and process, double award GSCE science, science and technology, and reform of GCE advanced level. Argues toward a reappraisal of the mechanism for curricular reform. (CW)

Presents a hierarchical list of principles that can be used as a guide in the construction of more successful science programs that have scientific literacy for all as a goal. Lists affective goals for science education. Discusses the role of teachers' attitudes and expectations in teaching this type of curriculum. (CW)

Delineates a concept of scientific literacy as it relates to the Nigerian situation. Examines the relevance and implications of scientific literacy to the educational system and national security. Suggests how scientific literacy can be encouraged through science programs, especially in elementary science education. (YP)

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…

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…