Selection bias is problematic when evaluating the effects of postsecondary interventions on college students, and can lead to biased estimates of program effects. While instrumental variables can be used to account for endogeneity due to self-selection, current practice requires that all five assumptions of instrumental variables be met in order…

In recent research, female adolescents have been found to prefer history, language, and writing courses, while male adolescents have been found to prefer mathematics and science courses. These gender differences in course selection occurred despite the fact that female and male adolescents performed equally well in these courses. This study…

The Science and Engineering Education (SEE) Directorate of the National Science Foundation was eliminated in 1981, but has been refunded in 1985. The current plans for developing elementary and middle school science and mathematics programs are outlined. (MD)

In this issue, I provide information about an ongoing activity at the National Academies that will be of direct interest to biologists who are working to improve education in the life sciences. I also describe a recently published report and a forthcoming report on the Academies' efforts to help the nation develop a coherent strategy for improving…

Explains the rationale, program specifics and initiatives for the preparation and development of staff, curriculum, instructional support, and research for science education in the United States. Includes total program cost for each. (RT)