Promotes the use of machine-scored tests in basic engineering science classes. Discusses some principles and practices of machine-scored testing. Provides several example test items. Argues that such tests can be used to enhance basic understanding of concepts and problem solving skills. (TW)

Describes the novice-to-expert model of human learning and compares it to the recent advances in the areas of artificial intelligence and expert systems. Discusses some of the characteristics of experts, proposing connections between them with expert systems and theories of left-right brain functions. (TW)

Decribes a study which compared computer assisted instruction (CAI) with a parallel paper-and-pencil module to assess the impact on students' achievement and attitudes in chemistry. Supports the contention that CAI works as well or better than more traditional methods and tends to promote positive attitudes. (RT)

Reports on a study intended to determine the science education research interests of elementary teachers and to examine the data according to certain demographic variables. Results indicate that hands-on experience, science content, cognitive development and learning styles, problem solving, and teaching strategies were the top five research…

Describes a common misconception in the study of mechanics. Cites textbooks as being in error for equating velocity components along the string because the string does not remain taut. Discusses the typical textbook approach to a problem of this nature and the misconception that pervades textbooks in the British Isles. (CW)

There is evidence that structured cooperative logic is an effective way to introduce or reinforce mathematics concepts, explore thinking processes basic to both math and science, and develop the important social skills of cooperative problem-solving. This book contains a number of cooperative logic activities for grades K-4 in order to improve…

This document presents the revised Arkansas Science Curriculum Framework (1999), which replaces the Science Curriculum Framework of 1994. Three strands--physical science systems, life science systems, and Earth science/space science systems--were identified using an integrated approach to provide guidance in the science curriculum. A glossary and…

This document explains the Arkansas science benchmarks for grades 5-8 which were developed to provide guidance to science teachers. The content standards for three strands--physical science systems, life science systems, and Earth science/space science systems--were identified based on grade levels. (YDS)

Today university students are demanding a greater say in their tertiary education. In particular they are demanding a greater flexibility in the way they receive their instruction, and it is imperative that course delivery strategies that fulfil these expectations are investigated. On-line delivery of learning materials offers teacher and students…

Compared effectiveness of teacher-demonstration and self-paced modes of teaching concepts and problem-solving skills in college chemistry. Results showed the self-paced mode significantly more effective for teaching concepts and problem-solving skills. Results of an attitude test also showed that most students (N=60) preferred the self-paced…

Determines effect of a process-oriented science curriculum on students' (N=83) ability to transfer and utilize problem-solving skills, and the relation of basic and integrated processes to the development of those skills. Discusses methodology and implications for teaching problem solving, stressing the need for process-oriented curricula.…

Details the process and results of an action research project that explored children's understandings of why toys move in certain ways. The purpose of the project is to inform tutoring sessions and the classroom practices of student teachers. (DDR)

Describes two chemistry computer programs: (1) "Eureka: A Chemistry Problem Solver" (problem files may be written by the instructor, MS-DOS 2.0, IBM with 384K); and (2) "PC-File+" (database management, IBM with 416K and two floppy drives). (MVL)

Provides background material on logic programing and presents PROLOG as a high-level artificial intelligence programing language that borrows its basic constructs from logic. Suggests the language is one which will help the educator to achieve various goals, particularly the promotion of problem solving ability. (MVL)

Presents the results of a chemistry program held at Purdue University from July 31-August 4, 1988. Topics reported include: chemistry's past, present, and future; new directions in chemical education, demonstrations and laboratories; and instructional strategies. Lists the 391 papers given at the conference and the 22 workshops. (MVL)