Presents evidence from the Yupiaq culture that demonstrates a body of scientific thought and epistemology that differs from that of Western science. Contends that this information can provide a more culturally relevant framework for science learning for some students. Contains 20 references. (DDR)

Investigates the effects of a constructivist versus objectivist learning environment on college students' conceptual change using a computer simulation of the human cardiovascular system as an instructional tool. Contains 33 references. (DDR)

Describes initiatives such as project-based learning, student-generated examinations, and peer assessment that have been implemented at Queensland University of Technology to prepare graduates for professional practice and equip students with attributes for lifelong learning. Also states that assessment procedures should promote and reward the…

Documents a case of model-building in biology through microanalysis of one student's interaction with "Science for Living: The Circulatory System (SFL)", an interactive multimedia resource prototype for research. Describes the student's learning goals, gains, and activities with particular attention to interactions with representations,…

Introduces the ideas of "distal" knowledge of the nature of science and "proximal" knowledge of the nature of science. Suggests that viewing these two kinds of knowledge structures within modern information processing frameworks that delineate roles of epistemological and metacognitive knowledge in learning should guide future research. (Contains…

There have been increasing efforts among science educators to move students away from learning about science towards learning "to be" scientists. To move in this direction, there is a need to change the epistemology of the learning of science from instructivism to one of social constructivist learning. The purpose of this research is to…

The purpose of this article is to suggest ways of using research on children's reasoning and learning to elaborate on existing national standards and to improve large-scale and classroom assessments. The authors suggest that "learning progressions"--descriptions of successively more sophisticated ways of reasoning within a content domain based on…

Social epistemology is an effort to combine the philosophical theories of science that have stressed normative approaches to knowledge with sociological theories which are weak on offering guidance on how knowledge policy should be conducted. The practice of multiculturalism provides a useful application of social epistemological intervention,…

This review of the findings of recent cognitive science research pertaining to learning and teaching focuses on how science and mathematics are being taught, analyzes how the presence of the computer demonstrates a need for radical rethinking of both the theory and the practice of learning, and points out that if educators fail to consider the…

With observed physical phenomena, scientific inquiry, magic, or religious explanatory modes can be used. The educated world has chosen scientific inquiry. Within this mode, the author points out, are fruitful and also non-promising prescriptive conclusions regarding the teaching of science. (CP)

Addresses the importance of recognizing the prior knowledge and misconceptions of science educators. Provides perspectives on the nature of knowledge, conceptions of learning, nature of science and of teaching, and the relationship between general principles of learning and teaching. (ML)

This paper focuses on the potential value of cultural myths in maintaining the notion of science for all through educational reform. Cultural myths are defined as networks of beliefs and values, and they have the potential of influencing science and science education. Not until recently did educators realize the importance of myths and their…

An historical perspective and emphasis on direct experiences are stressed in school science because, while they are the components most likely to be overlooked, they contribute to the development of pupils' scientific understanding. (Author/SK)

Examines central parts from the first two papers in this journal by Peter Slezak criticizing the "sociology of scientific knowledge". Considers some of the main philosophical issues raised by sociologists of science. Contains 87 references. (DDR)

Examines one theory used to justify science teaching on the basis of goals that transcend learning the content of science. Focuses on the goal of intellectual independence from science for nonscientists. Provides a brief overview of other content-transcendent goals in science education. Contains 45 references. (DDR)