Previously, a small scale, interview-based, 3-year longitudinal study (ages 11-14) in one school had suggested a learning progression related to the concept of a substance. This article presents the results of a large-scale, cross-sectional study which used Rasch modeling to test the hypothesis of the learning progression. Data were collected from…

Describes an aptitude treatment interaction (ATI) hypothesis used to investigate relationships among aptitudes and science instructional treatments in terms of student performance. It is proposed that ATI research work in science education will systematically yield reliable generalizations about how to adapt instruction to individuals with…

Studied the effects of the inquiry strategy method on the styles of categorization of 92 students, using results from the Sigel Cognitive Style Test administered in 1966, 1970, and 1971. Concluded that the inquiry-exposed groups were found to be significantly more analytical than the comparison groups. (CC)

Determined: (1) if elementary education majors (N=91) from different levels of reasoning ability learned more science concepts under different grouping methods in an inquiry/learning cycle-based physical science class; and (2) if these students became able to reason more effectively under the different grouping methods. (JN)

Argues on the basis of Piaget's theory that self-regulated cognitive activity of the student plays a crucial role in the construction of logical reasoning strategies used in testing hypotheses. Proposes six sequences in the development of hypothesis-testing conceptions and provides alternatives. Also distinguishes three families of teaching…

Reports on a study that examined the differential effectiveness of traditional and discovery methods of chemistry instruction in Zambia. Compared were the teaching of science concepts, understandings about science, and scientific attitudes to learners at the concrete and formal levels of cognitive development. (TW)

Discusses the use of mental ability tests for grouping science students. Describes a study which investigated the analytical skill items on the Otis-Lennon Mental Ability Test for field independent bias. Results indicated that the test is biased in favor of individuals with field independent perceptual orientation. (TW)