Argues that the traditional paradigm used in teaching science and mathematics should be replaced by one which focuses on the students' own conceptions, prior experiences, and active participation in learning. (DDR)

Draws on the new field of mathematical study called fractal geometry. Illustrates the pervasiveness and constraining tendencies of classical geometries. Suggests that fractal geometry is a mathematical analogue to fields such as post-modernism, post-structuralism, and ecological theory. Examines how fractal geometry can complement other emergent…

Provides a model for curriculum development using constructivism to help democratize science education. Illustrates how to put this model into practice, focusing on: (1) expressing current conceptions; (2) sharing and learning new conceptions; and (3) applying and testing conceptions. (CMK)

Discusses challenges facing teacher librarians to plan a future for the information-knowledge environments in schools and suggests that action and evidence-based, learning-centered practice focusing on a constructivist inquiry approach are important. Topics include perceived lack of support and understanding; funding; professional development; a…

Examines the paradigm debate over established (behavioral and cognitive) and alternative (constructivist) models of instructional design (ID). Discusses instructional strategies and principles, new terms versus new meaning, "straw man" and personalized arguments, expert-determined goals, research-based versus "brand-X" models,…

Argues that a strong sense of technical necessity informs the design of the computer-literacy curriculum. As a result, instruction in this area is inadequate at best and dehumanizing at worst. Contains 32 references. (DDR)

Focuses on the history of the organization of chemical principles in chemistry textbooks. Describes a higher-order organizing principle, based in chemical logic and understanding, from which topics and order of presentation are derived. Provides an example of a biochemistry curriculum developed using this organizing principle. (DDR)

Maintains that utilizing the Internet in geography education changes the learning paradigm from the traditional lecture hall to a technology-rich, constructivist environment. Addresses the opportunities this paradigm offers for improving teaching and learning. Discusses the Colorado Geography-Web Project at the University of Colorado in which the…

Constructivist theory recognizes the student's value as thinker. Thinking ability hinges on the capacity to ask and consider important questions. Teachers need question-driven problem-solving strategies that are comprehensive, adaptable, discriminating, productive, and transferable. This article explains four types of situations and accompanying…

Investigates the extent to which a new general science curriculum reflecting a constructivist view has influenced the science classroom learning environment in Korea. Results from a validated Korean Constructivist Learning Environment Survey (CLES) indicate that grade 10 students perceived a more constructivist learning environment than grade 11…

Introduces an interdisciplinary undergraduate course on space physics based on history. Presents a contextual overview of space physics. (Contains 16 references.) (YDS)

A study examining the relationship between classroom environment and academic self-efficacy surveyed 951 mathematics students in grades 8 and 10 in 4 Canadian high schools. Improved levels of involvement, investigation, and task orientation were associated with higher levels of academic efficacy. Conventional classrooms may foster academic…

Investigates teacher education methods for teacher development as constructivist science instructors. Explains a typical day in a classroom using the traditional teaching approach and makes recommendations for promoting scientific thinking and problem solving. (YDS)

Theater as representation (TAR) has been used in pre-service and in-service teacher and administrator preparation programs since 1998. This paper places TAR within a pedagogical arena that further solidifies its place as an instrument for leadership professional development in B.Ed., M.Ed., and in-service programs. Maxine Greene (1995) challenges…

In most school settings, textbooks, which can be static and frequently outdated, are the major source of instruction about societal and science issues. Educators, however, want students to be less reliant on the static, sometimes dated, information and didactic instructions found in those books and to be more active in gathering their own…