Summarizes current developments in alternative frameworks research in science education. Covers concept maps, learning as conceptual change, classroom strategies, problem solving in physics and where research should be going. (CW)

Analyzed sound systems of six phonologically disordered children and assessed relative phonological knowledge of target sounds. After-treatment results indicated that error sounds of which the children had the most knowledge were easiest to learn. Treatment beginning with the most difficult sounds resulted in more widespread changes in the…

Although many articles in the education literature recommend how to teach statistics more effectively, there is little published research on how students actually learn statistics concepts. The literature reviewed in this paper indicates a need for collaborative, cross-disciplinary research on how students come to think correctly about probability…

Provides some teaching tips for elementary teachers that are designed to enhance the natural interests of young children in science and help equip them with important science processing skills. Contains activities related to observation, classification, measurement, and communication. (TW)

Reports on a study designed to investigate aspects of young children's knowledge of fractions and partitions of quantities. Findings suggest that although children did not have a deep understanding of the concept of one half, a significant number demonstrated a powerful systematic procedure leading to the creation of accurate equal fractional…

Defines cognitive computer tools as software programs that use the control capabilities of computers to amplify, extend, or enhance human cognition; suggests seven ways in which computers can aid learning; and describes the "Learning Tool," a software package for the Apple Macintosh microcomputer that is designed to aid learning of…

Argues that, though considerable difference of view is evident between Montessori and Piaget about the importance of certain concepts and level of cognitive development necessary for genuine understanding, the ideas and methods first presented by Montessori 80 years ago stand up well when evaluated through the lens of current research. (PK)

Results question the validity of Cummins's threshold hypothesis and suggest that degree of bilingualism is related to variability in cognitive measures only before a certain threshold of proficiency in the second language is attained. A cause-effect model in which degree of bilingualism appears as the causal factor affecting children's cognitive…

Presents study findings which explored the effect of teacher reasoning level and teaching style preference on improvement in student-reasoning ability. Reports that students of concrete operational teachers and of inquiry teachers showed greater gains in reasoning ability than students of formal operational teachers and of expository teachers. (ML)

A four-and-a-half-year longitudinal experiment reconsidered the contribution of organic impairment to the genesis of mild mental retardation among disadvantaged children. It was hypothesized that nonoptimal perinatal conditions might result in deficits that increase a child's vulnerability to environmental risk factors. Study results supported the…

The attempt to integrate school curricula with social concerns is a recurring motif in North American education. Impediments to integration can be reduced by incorporating a cognitive approach to social issues analysis. The approach was tested with 4seven9 grade 7-10 students in two Ontario, Canada, school systems with positive results. (MM)

Examines how differences in the cognitive levels of 60 pre-service teachers influenced the way they perceived and interpreted their teaching competency. Results showed that students of higher cognitive ability set higher standards for their teaching performance, and thus were more critical in their self-evaluations. (TRS)

Examines the reciprocal relationship between the home environment and the development of 148 slow learning adolescents over a three-year period, assessing such factors as child-rearing attitudes, educationally relevant stimuli and opportunities, and psychosocial climate and environmental press of the home. (HOD)

Argues that structured reading programs, workbook pages, and drills do not alone provide an adequate basis for beginning reading instruction and suggests that experiences, knowledge, and other environmental factors ensure success in reading. (HOD)

Discusses results obtained from a longitudinal experiment in early education designed to prevent mild mental retardation in high-risk families. Indicates that risk frequently becomes manifest deficits by the second year of life but that systematic and intense early education can prevent that occurrence. (AS)