In recent decades, the literature paid attention to students' conceptions of the nature of disciplines. This study aimed to investigate how students' cohesive and fragment conceptions of physics changed with a major change in senior high school physics syllabus. We obtained measures of conceptions of physics by utilizing a 20-item questionnaire…

The fatal effect of the Hendra virus was noticed first in Queensland, Australia in 1994 when several horses died from an "unidentified cause". This was followed by the death of trainers and veterinarians called to assist affected horses. It is now known that the "unidentified cause", is a virus harboured in native Australian…

Discusses the structure of the Matriculation Physics course offered in South Australian secondary schools and points to weaknesses in terms of preparation for students who elect to study physics at the tertiary level. (JR)

Describes three laboratory practice courses offered for chemical technician certification at the South Australian Institute of Technology. (MLH)

Describes a course designed for students to gain knowledge with a degree of relevance by providing opportunities for student appreciation of the physics associated with features in everyday life. (GS)

Described is the development of science courses for Australian secondary colleges. Included are synopses and course content for all units of physics, chemistry, geology, agriculture, astronomy and biology which have been developed to date. (SL)

Describes a series of health studies courses for teacher trainees and outlines a health studies secondary methods course. (GS)

Describes the two science programs in year 11 science at LeFevre High School in Australia. One science program is designed for science students, the other for humanities students. (MLH)

Describes an environmental studies program designed to have students study units with an interdisciplinary approach. Outlines the four year program. (BR)

Describes an environmental education curriculum for Aboriginies of the Arnhem Land Reserve which takes into account the needs of the students, the local environment and the resources of the local community. (BR)

Described is an integrated physical science course being developed for Australian high schools. Included are the course structure, explanation of three major units of the course, and the basic concerns prompting the development of the new course. (SL)

The article advocates the use of content topics, and by the use of appropriate enquiry process skills, the development of broad concepts which will encourage children to consider their attitudes in a broad range of issues and the part they can play in decisions about them. (Author/RE)

In 2000, the New South Wales Board of Studies introduced new syllabi for Junior Science (years 7-10) and Senior Science subjects (years 11 and 12), i.e. Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Earth and Environmental Science (Geology). The structure of these courses is similar: it is based on a contextual perspective and is underpinned by a number of…