Integrated Social Studies (ISS) is designed to teach students the multi-dimensional nature of man. It focuses on concepts and values from the social sciences, history, the arts, and a variety of brief-value systems. Individualized instruction provides a framework for participation in which students are offered a wide range of learning experiences…

This guide introduces teachers to the ideas and methods that underpin project-based learning. Teachers who are new to planning and managing projects will find the guide particularly helpful as a starting point and resource guide. Chapter 1 presents a rationale for project-based instruction, describes potential benefits and concerns, discusses the…

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a teaching technique that educates by presenting students with a situation that leads to a problem for them to solve. Rather than finding a single correct answer, students interpret the question, gather additional information, create possible solutions, evaluate options, and present conclusions. This book shows…

This report describes a project at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (New York) to develop a curriculum that focuses on the social construction and use of science and technology in diverse cultural contexts. The program consists of both a minor and a three-course concentration on cross-cultural studies of science and technology. Courses covered…

Reports on the procedures, standards, and topics involved in the 1997 National History Day. National History Day is a year-long contest where students research primary sources and prepare papers, projects, performances, and media based on a historical theme. The 1997 theme is "Triumph and Tragedy in History." (MJP)

Four elementary schools in Washington, Alaska, and British Columbia are cooperating on a project to explore issues surrounding the Pacific salmon fisheries. Place-based techniques and interactive media are used to bring together science; global concerns; the histories of Canada, the United States, and First Nations peoples; background on the…

The Santa Fe Indian School (New Mexico) developed the community-based education model with input from parents, teachers, Elders, and tribal council members in five pueblos. Students in grades 10-12 study community problems related to the environment and develop science, technology, and communications skills. Experiential learning makes this…

Describes an effort of a library and a school system in which an educational resource science and mathematics enrichment center was created to combat the underrepresentation of minorities in science and technology-related careers. Explains classes at the center, inservice, teacher education, informal use of the center, and additional programs. (RT)

Examines some of the reasons tropical rain forests are being destroyed and ways people are working to protect these forests. Provides activities on how people can help, reason for saving the forests, individual actions related to forest problems and solutions, and issues and problems. Three copyable pages accompany activities. (Author/RT)

Gives seven approaches that teachers can use to transform reading into media investigations. Explanations and descriptions include the relationship between organization of textbook and its content, writing reports, and student research. (RT)

Addresses effects of the (UK) Education Reform Act of 1988 on three linked components of outdoor education: outdoor pursuits, outdoor studies, and residential experience. Argues that curriculum changes completely fragment the cross-curricular value of outdoor education and fundamentally undermine the role of perhaps the most significant process of…

Discusses ways to achieve science-technology-society (STS) goals in education, focusing on various technology educators' perspectives on and approaches to STS (understanding the STS relationship, recognizing limitations and usefulness, appreciating intellectual stimuli, understanding applications and decisions, and gaining knowledge and…

Discusses guidelines to provide developmentally appropriate environmental education experiences for young children. Guidelines include (1) keeping children actively involved; (2) beginning with simple experiences; (3) encouraging use of the senses; (4) focusing on developing relationships; (5) demonstrating enjoyment of nature; (6) involving…

This survey reviews types of environmental monitoring as well as the general aims of the organizations who sponsor volunteer monitoring programs for school and community groups. These programs address educators' interest in involving students in authentic science experiences and provide interdisciplinary activities that link schools and…

A study investigated 147 5th-year pharmacy students' perceptions of professional roles and attitudes toward other health care workers before and after clinical experiences. Changes were found after internship/clerkship completion, particularly in more positive attitudes toward physicians and toward sharing of professional responsibility. An…