Chemistry curricula in part rely on the use of laboratory demonstrations and experiments. The complex nature of this kind of educational activity has been posing challenges from the very early days of teaching chemistry. As chemistry is an experimental science, one possible approach to make the teaching of this subject more efficient is to use…

Although much of the scientific community concerns itself with ideas of a sustainable future, very little of this interest and motivation has reached the classroom experience of the average chemistry major, and therefore, it is imperative to expose students to these ideas early in their careers. The focus of most undergraduate chemistry curricula…

Provides an account of the instruction of university-level introductory physics courses using a framework characterized by curiosity-driven inquiry in science and science teaching. Describes the role of the instructor as providing students with the incentive to learn science through their pursuit of personally meaningful questions. Contains 25…

Describes one teacher's approach to teaching science in preschool and discusses the advantages of experiential learning in preschool science programs. (RJC)

Describes a laboratory course, modeled on the approach developed by Robert Karplus for physics laboratory courses, emphasizing discovery learning. (SK)

Reports on a study that explored the types of questions that students ask for open-ended science investigations. Discusses how teachers can help students identify problems and pose questions that are feasible for investigation. (Contains 55 references.) (DDR)

Introductory science has become a discovery course for the students at Phillips Exeter Academy (New Hampshire), who are above average in ability and motivation. The philosophy of the course is that it should serve a more humanizing function than the preparation of young technicians, and that this function is as important for the future scientist…

Describes five environmental awareness activities which can be integrated into any elementary school classroom situation. Activity oriented experiences are described utilizing field experiences, group work, language experience, role playing and the inquiry method. Activity topics include the meaning of environment, introduction to natural and…

Explains the philosophy that forms the basis of a high school physical science course based on astronomy and the activity-based textbook that accompanies it. Cites specific examples of misconceptions related to astronomy and recommends various diagnostic and concept change strategies. (DDR)

To experience the world of professional science, students must have access to the scientific community and be allowed to become real scientists. A partnership involving the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the Lewis Center for Educational Research has produced Jupiter Quest, an engaging curriculum…

A six-year project providing training for prospective elementary school science teachers is described. Phase one, a period of three years, involved a longitudinal study of a pilot group of students as they encountered science content and science teaching methodology, coupled with early and continued field teaching experiences. In the final three…

The computer, still a novel device in classrooms, may be incorporated as another learning tool. One method to accomplish this gave students the opportunity to build a clock using materials such as sand, water, or a computer. Additional projects are suggested. (JL)

A program is described in which parent volunteers assist in science instruction at the kindergarten/first grade level. Examples of activities within the mini-units are given. (SA)

Mastery learning can combine the strengths of direct instruction with the strengths of discovery learning. This paper describes how mastery learning is being used in Missouri schools to enhance the quality of instruction in science at all grade levels. In addition, the dramatic results in student science achievement that have occurred within the…

Described is a mobile hands-on science program called "Light Works" that is brought directly into the classroom. The reasons for the implementation of "Light Works" into primary classrooms is discussed. The advantages and operation of this program are included. (KR)