As the use of plastics expands, microplastic concentrations increase in aquatic environments and negatively impact water, soil, and animals inhabiting these areas. Microplastic research frequently incorporates citizen science to assist in data collection and environmental education. These projects provide opportunities for greater societal…

In this article Andrew Bell describes how he developed science capital at his school by involving his class in a Family Science project. He finds that the Family Science project has many impacts including: (1) substantial increase in science activity at home; (2) interest in families in sourcing their own science activities; (3) parental interests…

Citizen science projects have grown in number, scale and scope in recent years. Such projects engage members of the public in working with professional scientists in a diverse range of practices. Yet there has been little educational exploration of such projects to date. In particular, there has been limited exploration of the educational…

Reports a significant correlation between environmental knowledge and environmental attitude, and significant differences between BSCS (Biology Sciences Curriculum Study) and nonbiology students' ecology comprehension and environmental attitudes. (CP)

One hundred eighty studies of science inservice projects reported in the literature from 1973-1980 were reviewed. Sixteen of these studies contained sufficient data for meta-analysis (technique by which treatment effects can be quantified, standardized, and compared using a "size effect" statistic). The magnitude of the effect of the…

Common misconceptions of children that may interfere with their learning science are discussed, including three aspects of science programs: complexity, fragility, and unclear learning outcomes. Special attention is given to the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS). Methods for solving problems dealing with students' misconceptions are then…