In recent years, there has been a rapid growth in interest about the relationship between the arts and the sciences. This article explores this developing relationship and the suggestion that science and science learning are not complete without the arts. We see three levels at which the arts might improve the teaching and learning of science. The…

Imagine two fourth-grade classes. Both contain students of comparable demographics and highly respected teachers each with four to five years of experience. Both classes engage in science curricula that emphasize science and engineering practices as outlined in the "Next Generation Science Standards" (NGSS Lead States 2013). Both classes…

Since its founding in 1863, the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) has occupied a special niche in the complex ecology of advice-giving in the United States. Established as a small, private organization with special responsibilities and obligations vis a vis the American people and government, the Academy has expanded considerably in the past…

The United States' economy depends greatly on a citizenry that possesses scientific and technical skills within the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for economic growth. In the past few decades, technological advancement has created a demand for a highly skilled workforce possessing scientific and mathematical…

Practitioners in informal science settings--museums, after-school programs, science and technology centers, media enterprises, libraries, aquariums, zoos, and botanical gardens--are interested in finding out what learning looks like, how to measure it, and what they can do to ensure that people of all ages, from different backgrounds and cultures,…

Explains the color change of the sky by using scattering with science history. Provides several diagrams in each case, such as daylight, twilight, just after sunset, setting sun, and earth's shadow. Presents a reference of three further reading materials. (YP)

This article presents several news stories about computers and technology. (1) Applied Science Associates of Narragansett, Rhode Island is providing computer modeling technology to help locate the remains to the USS Bonhomme Richard, which sank in 1779 after claiming a Revolutionary War victory. (2) Whyville, the leading edu-tainment virtual world…

Spanish-speaking children, like children everywhere, are naturally interested in the world around them. If teachers are to encourage their understanding and appreciation of the natural and physical sciences, they should provide them with a wide variety of books they can read and understand. From board books about farm animals to a high-interest…

Explains the need for science training for many environmental careers and science related tasks required in performing their jobs. States that environmentalists are getting industries to change production methods and helping policymakers make regulations. (RT)

Explains procedures and activities involved in conducting and using a dig for teaching students about ethnobiological topics and ancient civilizations. Provides guidelines for dealing with the same lesson without taking students on a dig. (RT)

Discusses the standards by which professors are evaluated for advancement and the reasons why these standards are antithetical to fostering a good learning environment for students. Gives some insights into what can be done to create an atmosphere in which teaching is not the lowest priority. (RT)

Although the microscope is a basic tool in both physical and biological sciences, it is notably absent from most elementary school science programs. One reason teachers find it challenging to introduce microscopy at the elementary level is because children can have a hard time connecting the image of an object seen through a microscope with what…

Girls Into Science and Technology (GIST), an action research project that ran from 1979 to 1983, aimed to study the reasons for girls' under-achievement in science and technology and to take action to remedy the situation. A cohort of 1,700 young people in ten co-educational comprehensive schools in the Greater Manchester area were followed from…

Discusses an interdisciplinary approach to environmental education. Outlines the distinct features of Spurensicherung and the need for the development of working relationships between the practicing teacher and groups outside the school in the facilitation of the program. Advocates adoption of this method. (RT)

Introduces one professor's endeavor, "Insect Fear Film Festival," to educate the public about entomology. Discusses some related topics and misconceptions. (YP)