The author proposes methods and content for science instruction in the middle years and comments on teacher qualifications and pupil differences which need consideration. (SJL)

Identifies using factor analysis areas of high priority which secondary school science teachers felt in need of help to improve their science teaching. Also investigated the relationship between perceived needs and three selected teacher variables: (1) science discipline; (2) experience; and (3) sex. (HM)

An independent studies program (ISP) in the basic medical sciences developed at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry involves 16 students as a learning team working with 10 medical teachers as a teaching team. The program offers an alternative to the lecture-laboratory-conference traditional format. (Author/LBH)

Presents teaching notes on the topics of powers of ten notations, physical chemistry projects involving natural products, calorimetry, and solar energy, and learning organic chemistry by playing cards. (SL)

Describes a curriculum segment designed for a high school level introductory anthropology course which illustrates the application of considerations of materials suitable for students, anthropological concepts and methods which best assist students in understanding relationship patterns, and teaching techniques which lead to successful…

Reported is a study which investigated reasons responsible for the lack of enthusiasm among junior high teachers in implementing a new biology curriculum in Israel. Identified variables related to high expectations set at the ideal level, the greater role given to verbalization, and mechanical or routine implementation approaches. (ML)

Reviews data from around the world documenting differences in educational attainment of males and females with emphasis on scientific subjects. Considers social and cultural factors which account for these differences and offers concrete ideas for creating a less sex-differentiated science and technology. (JDH)

Proposes an approach to teaching analytical chemistry and chemical analysis in which a problem to be resolved is the focus of a course. Indicates that this problem-oriented approach is intended to complement detailed discussions of fundamental and applied aspects of chemical determinations and not replace such discussions. (JN)

In guided design, students are led through the process of solving open-ended problems in "slow motion." Steps in the decision making involved in and examples of guided design projects in a physical science course are outlined and discussed. Comments on student evaluation of the course are included. (JN)

This research explores the structure of possible science education reform that can be compatible with structural change in high schools. Financial pressures, increased or decreased enrollment, state mandated changes, block scheduling, and assignments of students to age-appropriate grades are all examples of structural changes. Block scheduling is…

Identifies and discusses developments in learning theory that are of particular interest to science teachers. Emphasizes the importance of inquiry learning in facilitating intellectural growth whcih may otherwise be retarded by a classroom environment that does not provide opportunities for the student to investigate, probe, discuss and question.…

Discusses the building of a scientific theory on the basis of its characteristics including inflexible and comprehensive nature and related degree of trueness.'' Indicates that detailed phenomenon explanation, clarification of the theory scope, and presentation of competing theories are worthy objectives to pursue in teaching science to…

Presents data on student performance in a competency-based, multiple-opportunity format physics course, indicating that costs are related to character of examination questions and comprehensional modes of students. Compares costs for single/multiple trial formats, showing that multiple-trial opportunity has lower costs and a higher yield of…

The pendulum and balance beam were studied. The principal question addressed was whether students could substantially and quickly benefit from a teaching strategy explicitly designed to promote transfer. About half the subjects could acquire in brief time a procedure for transferring knowledge to novel tasks. (MP)

The view presented is that many elementary teachers do not understand the nature of science, how the skills are useful in everyday life, and of how science content is involved in many human endeavors. Integrating science with other disciplines is thought to have potential for improving the quality and quantity of science instruction. (MP)