In this article, we use a narrative methodology to understand the work of three teachers who have constituted identities that have allowed them to challenge the contemporary discourse of science education. We describe how teachers' evolving identities have been constituted through their responses to the discourses and situations of their work and…

Describes the history and current status of qualitative research in science education research. Discusses the issue of the quality of research. (JRH)

The present article scrutinizes the manner with which a group of three postsecondary students (in Quebec, Canada) describe the social actors concerned by the controversy surrounding cellular telephones. The study was conducted on the basis of an ethnographic approach. Participant observation was performed by the researcher for 3 hours during each…

From observations of four Canadian elementary schoolteachers, this article describes teacher practice and teacher knowledge within the context of science education. Four assertions emerged from the study what teachers do depends of their biography and experience; teachers search for comfortable patterns of practice; teacher knowledge develops…

Presents the experience of a Canadian Science-Technology-Society (STS) curriculum project as an indication of the problems that likely follow from attempts to introduce a STS curriculum piecemeal. These problems include redundancy within school curriculum and reduced time for science concept and term acceptability of the STS proposals. (PR)

Reports a single case design study on the exam performance in science of fifth and sixth graders (n=27) using note taking combined with self-questioning. Authors found gains in science exams when notetaking/self-questioning strategies were in effect. (PR)

Explains the "deliberative inquiry model," a strategy developed for investigating science education in Canada. Assumptions of the model are addressed, with information on position papers, curriculum policies, textbook analysis, teacher surveys, and case studies provided. Indicates that the project has created momentum for deliberation…

Describes the practice of concept mapping, the student-student and student-teacher interactions, and cognitive activity occurring in participants. Authors conclude that concept mapping is an excellent activity that allows students to engage in extended science discourse. The maps provide students with a means to learn the language patterns of…

This study was developed to provide advice to teachers on how to use rules in teaching experimental design in science classes. A review is presented on the use of rule in science teaching and the effects of instructional treatments are assessed on Canadian high school students' skills of experimental design. (ML)

Presented is a case study of a Science/Technology/Society course. Described are the specific goals and objectives of the course and the design of the study. The results of the study and the validity and transferability of this type of assessment are discussed. (CW)

This article is the first of a four part series of a study of Canadian high-school graduates' views on science-technology-society (STS) topics. It describes the research scope and methodology and discusses research issues associated with use of the specially constructed survey instrument, Views on Science-Technology-Society (VOSTS). (ML)