Explains how computer database technology can be used in the herbarium and be a useful aid in teaching botany and plant taxonomy. (PR)

Presents a simple model that can help students think about evolution and better understand the gradualist and punctuationist macroevolution approaches. The model also improves instruction for concepts of mutation, selection, fitness, extinction, and origin of life. Describes an IBM computer program for instruction in these areas. (PR)

Summarizes the animal rights argument that objects to the use or killing of animals for educational purposes. Reviews and evaluates alternative approaches that include the nonanimal options of videotaped experiments, self-experimentation, and computer simulations. (MDH)

Describes an introductory meteorology course for nonacademic high school students. The course is made hands-on by the use of an educational software program offered by Accu-Weather. The program contains a meteorology database and instructional modules. (PR)

Describes the integration of Interactive Multimedia Experiences (IMMEX) software into 10th-grade biology classes. IMMEX allows teachers to custom design and author their own simulations which can then be used to provide students with problem-solving and critical-thinking opportunities. Student problem-solving skills can be tracked through a…

There have been a great many good and varied textbooks in the history of education. For example, there was L.F. Magnitskii's "Arithmetic," L.N. Tolstoy's "Primer," and the Bible, which can also be thought of as a textbook. None of them is like the others at all. Each one is suitable for dealing with its own objectives in the…

This report presents a literature review of elementary science and design technology education research. The review is intended to provide direction to the elementary science working groups charged with the responsibility to revise the "Alberta Elementary Science Program" (1996) by reflecting current ideas reported in research…

The high percentage of students who have difficulty in solving free-response problems related to the mole concept was addressed by implementation of reading skill strategies and computer assisted instruction. Frayer models, semantic mapping, and graphic organizers from Reading in the Content Area (RICA) were used to increase student understanding…

There are many problems involved in upgrading scientific literacy in high schools: poorly qualified teachers, the lack of good instructional materials, and economic and academic disadvantages all contribute to the problem. This document describes a project designed to increase the opportunities available to the high school science student to…

Discusses the results of a survey on the usage of computers in secondary schools. Indicates that the majority of use was by computer classes; more staff development is needed for teachers of non-computer classes; and there is insufficient hardware and software available for non-computer classes. (TW)

Reviews two software packages, "Solutions Unlimited" and "BASIC Data Base System." Provides a description, summary, strengths and weaknesses, availability and costs. Includes reviews of three structured BASIC packages: "True BASIC (2.0)"; "Turbo BASIC (1.0)"; and "QuickBASIC (3.0)." Explains…

Describes four physics experiments including "Investigation of Box Resonances Using a Micro"; "A Direct Reading Wattmeter, DC or AC"; "Exercises in the Application of Ohm's Law"; and "Hysteresis on Gas Discharges." Discusses procedures, instrumentation, and analysis in each example. (CW)

Discusses the increased overlap in both the content and methods of teaching physics and "craft, design and technology" (CDT) in Great Britain. Describes the move toward the inclusion of CDT in the examinations for the General Certificate of Secondary Education. Provides suggestions for a proposed course in CDT. (TW)

Provides reviews of four educational software packages which deal with problem solving, mathematics, history, and reading comprehension. Includes information about appropriate hardware, grade level, the publisher and purchasing. Contains comments about the strengths and weaknesses of each program. (TW)

Describes the use of a microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) in teaching the concepts of heat and temperature to eighth grade students. Discusses the advantages of being able to instantly display the results of their experimentation with the use of temperature and light probes, and heat pulsors. (TW)