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…

Provides background information on the many natural resources we extract from the earth's crust, including metals, graphite, and other minerals, as well as fossil fuels. Contains teaching activities such as a geologic scavenger hunt, a geology chronology, and the recycling of aluminum. Includes a reproducible handout for the activity on aluminum.…

Reviews the initiatives taken by six states in promoting precollege Science, Technology, Society (STS) education. Discusses the exemplary efforts undertaken in Florida, Maryland, Michigan, New York, Washington, and Wisconsin. (ML)

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)

Scientific illiteracy in society begins in grade school, but preservice elementary teachers typically take only one or two disconnected science courses towards certification. Faculty from four disciplines developed an integrated science course tailored for elementary education majors. Students learn the importance of a well-rounded scientific…

The results of a survey of science teachers from southern Illinois and western Kentucky regarding their perceptions of science-related social issue goal statements are presented. Recommendations based on this survey are discussed. (CW)

Describes environmental education activities available in the Northwest Territories including the "Science Alive" project, the "Dial-an-Expert" service and a science fair program provided by the Science Institute of the Northwest Territories. Gives an outline of the Institute. Provides some demographic and geographic data of…

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…

This study investigates the extent of participation in science learning activities of rural students and their science achievement compared to students in other schools based on 1982 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data. The students living in extreme rural America have less opportunity to learn science than their large city…

This bibliography provides 337 annotated references covering: science teaching at the preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and high school levels; science education as it relates to various science disciplines; science education for special populations; sexual stereotyping in science education; teacher education for science teachers; and how…

Progressive approaches to science education incorporate a social dimension based on an interdisciplinary curriculum. The importance of such an approach has been recognized by educators and many science-techonology-society (STS) programs have been developed as a response to this social need. However, such programs may fall short of their mark…

Research studies have indicated the role curriculum plays in the crisis confronting science education. Many states have begun to reorganize and evaluate their science curricula for a more coherent and improved educational program. Curricular changes have traditionally included teacher input through a local school district committee. Information…

Since its beginning, the space program has caught the attention of young people. This space science activity booklet was designed to provide information and learning activities for students in elementary grades. It contains chapters on: (1) primitive beliefs about flight; (2) early fantasies of flight; (3) the United States human spaceflight…

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)