Synthesizes literature on apprenticeship learning, the sociology of science, and K-12 science education to develop a set of characteristics for designing/evaluating participatory science learning experiences. Clarifies and illuminates the value of these characteristics for science educators by using them as evaluative criteria for characterizing…

Recounts the unique partnership in science instruction developed between Nassau and Suffolk County (New York) schools and the Bronx Zoo to provide educational experiences for handicapped and mentally retarded students. Discussion focuses on a five-phase program developed for 200 elementary secondary students from Rosemary Kennedy Center through…

Pine Ridge Reservation schools use an interdisciplinary culture-based hands-on approach to science education. During a two-week summer science camp, elementary school teachers receive training in hands-on science instruction and apply their training with students. High school science classes incorporate Lakota culture and community problem…

Describes outdoor learning experiences in a one-day workshop that introduced teachers, scout leaders, and playground directors to Outdoor Biology Instructional Strategies (OBIS)--a program using games, crafts, simulations, and investigations to sharpen the ecological concepts of children ages 6-16. Includes address for obtaining additional…

SMART (Science, Math, and Relevant Technology) Connections, an afterschool offshoot of a program addressing the scarcity of women in science, provides low-income children and children of color, both boys and girls, with hands-on science experience. Efforts continue to be made to ensure that the program works equally for boys as for girls. (CJS)

Described is a wide variety of community and national organizations that have developed summer programs for students interested in a science career. A list of addresses for these organizations and programs is provided. (KR)

Describes the group dynamics, science discovery processes, and activities involved in building a raft at camp. The project used recycled products and required group cooperation; critical thinking about density, buoyancy, and balance; use of familiar resources in creative ways; and application of previously learned facts. (SAS)

The SouthEastern Regional Vision for Education (SERVE) is a coalition of educators, business leaders, governors, and policymakers seeking comprehensive and lasting improvement in education in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina. SERVE'S Consortium for Mathematics and Science Education provides support to…

Summarizes the activities of the American Association for the Advancement of Science's Office of Science and Technology Education (OSTE) in promoting and improving science and mathematics education. Describes six new OSTE programs that include a national forum for school science, science resource material systems, and science seminars for…

The Sharing Success program, recognizes exemplary public school programs and practices in the states of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Each year, SERVE emphasizes a specific program area for recognition based on one of the national goals for education. This "Sharing Success" publication…