This volume of 50 promising programs and practices in mathematics and science education provides an array of innovative ideas of interest to K-12 teachers and persons involved in teacher education. These models of programs and practices can be used to improve teaching and learning in mathematics and science education. They can also be used to…

Describes how to create good physics programs in small colleges. (PR)

The Undergraduate Course and Curriculum Development Program of the National Science Foundation supports the development of courses in all disciplines to improve the quality of undergraduate courses and curricula in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. The purpose of the program in Curriculum Development in Mathematics: Calculus and…

The Mission Statement of Thomas Nelson Community College contains the statement, "As a community-based institution, TNCC strives to be responsive to the educational and skill needs of area businesses, industries, and government agencies." This paper describes three programs initiated to support this aspect of the college mission. Adventures in…

This document describes some of the many programs sponsored by the National Science Foundation in its efforts to continue to promote systemic science and mathematics education reform. Brief descriptions of the following programs are included: (1) Interactive Math Program Restructures 9-12 Math Education; (2) Algebra I Project Sparks Citywide…

Emphasizes that the concept of design is fundamental in innovation. Outlines the work of the European Society for Engineering Education-Working group on Innovation. Describes the innovation-management stream in the curriculum of the faculty of Industrial Design Engineering at Delft University of Technology, Netherlands. (CW)

Describes a novel modeling and simulation package and assesses its impact on students' understanding of chemistry. Connected Chemistry was implemented inside the NetLogo modeling environment. Using Connected Chemistry, students employed problem -solving techniques characterized by stronger attempts at conceptual understanding and logical…

Contains descriptions of 11 college chemistry education programs that were awarded grants by the Pfizer Foundation because they make the introductory chemistry experience more positive and engaging for students, especially women and minorities. (LZ)

Describes reforms of university engineering education in Spain and suggests these reforms as guidelines for the training of European Engineers. Discusses the cyclic approach whereby an engineer acquires generalized "formation" via specialization. States that cultural differences should be respected. (CW)

Describes a project to improve the science curricula and the science teaching skills of instructors in Houston-area two-year colleges in such a way that the program can be replicated in other locations. Two-year college faculty members were teamed with faculty from universities. (PR)

Describes an innovative high school program that uses oceanography, mathematics, and science as common threads in the instructional program. The program utilizes an innovative class structure, community involvement, and hands on activities. (DDR)

Presents an interdisciplinary approach to introductory biology using a learning community model that addresses many of the American Association for the Advancement of Science's (AAAS) and Sigma Xi's objectives in the teaching of introductory science courses. (PR)

Presents the Belgian viewpoint on the educational curriculum for engineering at the university level. Discusses existing program content and compares it to European professional standards. Gives ideas about improvements that consider technical developments and professional aims. (CW)

Explains the importance of introductory science courses and presents characteristics of exemplary courses. (PR)

Project PRISE (Project to Improve Science Education) was designed to improve science preparation for preservice elementary teachers. Because students were familiar with water, and because water was so abundant in the project area (Grand Valley State University, Michigan), it was chosen as the theme. The PRISE curriculum development process began…