Addresses the question of what bearing the nature of educational theories has on their application to practice and focuses on the application of normative goal-directed theories of science education. Contains 40 references. (DDR)

In response to an article in the same issue by Norris and Kvernbekk, argues that the theory of Driver and associates, elaborated upon in the three articles which form the basis for their analysis, is not a normative goal-directed theory. (DDR)

Comments on the consequences of the death of the rationalist dream, including a loss of nerve in science education that leads some people to doubt the point and the value of teaching science. Argues that the death of this dream is irrelevant. Contains 57 references. (DDR)

Considers the metaphor of science education research as fields of inquiry. Groups the papers that have appeared in Studies in Science Education according to their contribution to the development of this metaphor. Contains 26 references. (DDR)

Reviews literature in the field of science education that aids in the mapping of the interface between language and science. Lists six categories of disputes regarding the status and value of science and scientific ideas. Contains 181 references. (DDR)

This paper focuses on both the implicit assumptions and biases in chemistry curricula and the institutionalized influences on women's participation in science-related courses and careers. Stereotypes of science and femininity and the use of the feminine perspective in teaching science are discussed. (CW)

A model for problem solving stressing both psychological and cultural influences is presented. This model is based on the analyses of how graduate students (n=10) solve organic synthesis problems, along with two models of problem solving and a constructivist epistemological stance. (KR)

Implications for science curricula and instructions of new perspectives on scientific knowledge, on nature of evidence, and on how knowledge changes are considered. Argues that much of science education is mired in positivist assumptions and suggests ways in which science instruction can promote a more appropriate epistemological attitude and…

Analysis of data on children's ideas about seeing and light is reported. Analysis is theoretically informed by Piagetian stage theory of genetic epistemology. Data produced by other researchers have been recoded to enable quantitative comparisons to be made with the survey data reported by Shayer and Adey (1981). Patterns in the data exposed by…

Discussed are the differences between the natural and social science disciplines and the importance of an interdisciplinary approach by the two groups on the subject of science-technology-society (STS). Included is a list of topics that all educated people should know about STS. (KR)

Presents arguments for and against the appropriateness of philosophical hermeneutics as a framework for natural science education. Discusses reasons for its relevance to science and to the problem of meaning in science education. Suggests that each science be viewed as a language. (Contains 29 references.) (MDH)

Teacher knowledge--indeed teachers themselves--is always unfinished and incomplete. Knowledge never exists outside of a context of use. The shift to seeing teaching as site of cultural production invites the question, What structures of human relationship will scientists and science educators construct in and through the work they perform? The…

Strongly recommends asking students to reflect on their activities when engaging in or studying science. Encouraging students to ask the kinds of questions that philosophers of science ask actively engages students in the scientific inquiry process. (DDR)

Claims that, in contrast to Hugh Lacey's arguments, current research in nonindustrialized nations demonstrates how a materialistic strategy of scientific understanding may be sensitive to cultural context. Concludes that differentiating ethical and scientific values is essential lest we conflate descriptive and normative processes. (Author/WRM)

Compares the worldview of Native American students of the traditional Kickapoo Band with the worldview encountered in the science classroom. Investigates by conducting periodic observation in two classrooms over an 18-month period of time. Contains 41 references. (DDR)