The purpose of this study was to develop, scale, and validate assessments in engineering, science, and mathematics with grade appropriate items that were sensitive to the curriculum developed by teachers. The use of item response theory to assess item functioning was a focus of the study. The work is part of a larger project focused on increasing…

Within the field of science education, there remains little agreement as to the definition and characteristics of classroom inquiry. The emerging emphasis on scientific practices in science education reform discourse is underpinned by a need to better articulate the constituent elements of inquiry-based science. While a small number of…

This longitudinal, five-year study of teachers and students who had participated in a systemic reform program in science explored if (1) teacher change in practice realized during a three-year program is sustained one, two, and three years following the program, (2) student performance on state science assessments two years following studying with…

The purpose of this article is to focus on the development and refinement of a science instructional design program arguing for the feasibility and usability of integrated reading and science instruction as implemented in third- and fourth-grade science classrooms to meet the learning needs of diverse learners. These instructional components are…

This case study reviewed the collaborative efforts of university engineers, teacher educators, and middle school teachers to advance sixth- and seventh-grade students' learning through a series of project-based engineering activities. This two-year project enriched regular school curricula by introducing real-world applications of science and…

The author poses problems and suggestions for possible solutions encountered in curriculum installation. (CP)

Argues to revise the method in which science history is presented in science curriculum materials, particularly the view of women scientists. (CP)

Describes problems and successes in adapting Science Curriculum Improvement (SCIS) materials for use in the National College of Schweifat, located near Beirut, Lebanon. (CS)

Discusses the content and structure of the secondary school science program "Time, Space and Matter," and responds to an earlier criticism of the program published in this journal. (JR)

Describes the content, evaluation, and operation of a high school physics course intended for college bound non-science majors. Discusses some advantages and challenges of contract learning. (CP)

Investigates the perceptions of teachers, principals, and consultants concerning the importance of identified inservice activities, provided by a consultant, to implementing teachers. One hundred-forty-five educators participated in a program in which Science--A Process Approach (SAPA) materials were introduced. Collectively, educators considered…

Studies on science course improvement projects are synthesized, with reactions from several professional organizations. Other reports from the mid-1980s are noted. A brief summary of research findings is provided, with a longer discussion on the impetus for change, the conditions needed for change, and who decides. (MNS)

Attempts to assess the impact of the NSF science curriculum projects have been generally unsatisfactory. Much of the NSF impact on science education will probably continue to defy quantification. Whether or not the new curricula achieve their goal of increasing scientific literacy among the public can only be evaluated over the lifetimes of the…