Despite the expressed need for high-quality science education, very little research has been conducted on what middle school science learning opportunities look like in practice. This study was conducted in support of "Strengthening Science Education in California", a research, policy, and communications initiative. Partners in this…

Planetarium presentations at Ball State University have been integrated into a science and society course titled Colloquium in Science and Mathematics. A brief description and educational objectives for six of the presentations are provided. (JN)

Development of numerous materials projects and programs is a continuing characteristics of environmental education. Most have been modest, local in scope, and short-lived. But in recent years many have become more ambitious, substantive, and sophisticated, more effectively designed and better positioned to make significant educational impacts on…

This is the second "Center Spot" devoted to Jan Hoffman's "Shoe Box Science," a program that organizes manipulative materials so that children can identify, describe, order, construct, name and distinguish on their own.

Suggests using the planetarium as an educational resource for all ages. Discusses various planetarium teaching techniques and planetarium programs (with objectives) at Ball State University. They include programs for school children, college students, and the general public. (DH)

Examines reasons why individuals in academic institutions do not feel the same safety-related pressures as individuals in nonacademic institutions. Also lists elements that should be included in any basic safety/health program and describes the steps taken at one college to improve laboratory safety. (JN)

During the past decade, organizations and individuals in communities across the United States have come together in alliances to promote the improvement and reform of science, mathematics, and technology education in elementary and secondary schools. This handbook draws from the experiences of those pioneer local alliances to provide insights and…

Illustrates problems involved in controlling a public health disease (schistosomiasis) which is interwoven into a country's religious, economic, political, educational, and social systems. The strong relationship between the disease and development of irrigation systems is pointed out. A successful education and integrative program is described.…

Describes the four-day Washington visit of the 1984 Presidential Awardees for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching. Also gives 1985 nomination information and a list of private-sector contributors. (DH)

Reports on a program designed to increase computer literacy of faculty and to help them incorporate the use of microcomputers into their classes. The approach included formal 2-week summer workshops and peer groups to facilitate development of discipline-oriented microcomputer applications. (JN)

Assesses the state of "applied Japanese studies" in American institutions of higher education, with particular reference to activities of designated centers of Japanese studies (including Lehigh University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, New York University, and others). Also identifies how programs might be expanded to better serve…

Discusses rewards of being a docent (unpaid teacher contributing knowledge, experience, time, or simply a vibrant dedication toward a common cause). Also discusses opportunities for docents in zoos, museums, art galleries, nature centers, and other locations and several docent-training programs. (JN)

Describes the use of seminar programs called convocations that offer gifted disadvantaged and culturally different students the opportunity to study scientific issues in-depth and to do creative work by proposing solutions to real problems. Related research and a pilot convocation involving sixth- and seventh-grade students are discussed.…

A participatory science workshop--open house was designed for parents and preschool children to explore together. Organizing and setting up are detailed. (HS)

Discussed are some of the problems associated with attracting women to the sciences. Factors from the student experience are listed. A summer science program at the University of Michigan is described. Suggestions for improving science education for young women are provided. (CW)