Discusses some calculations and demonstrations illustrating the role of physics in cardiovascular system. Describes a model for the system, work done by the heart, pressure in blood vessel, and gravitational effects. (YP)

Introduces a method for two-dimensional kinematics measurements by hanging marbles with long strings. Describes experimental procedures for conservation of momentum and obtaining the coefficient of restitution. Provides diagrams and mathematical expressions for the activities. (YP)

Describes the discoveries by Hertz historically, such as photoelectric effect, radio waves, their impact on modern physics and some applications. Presents several diagrams and two chronological tables. (YP)

Describes a study of the understanding of basic electrical concepts shown by 15-17 year-old students in England, France, Netherlands, Sweden, and West Germany. Reports substantially the same pattern of learning difficulties across countries. Provides sample items. (Author/YP)

Seven theme articles discuss strategies for teaching mechanics, physical sciences in the study of foods, scientific principles in the agricultural curriculum, environmental issues in agriculture, and applied physical sciences. (SK)

Traditionally, environmental education has been taught from a technocratic rationality, marked by a dominant and almost blind faith in the capacities and qualities of science rather than considering political and sociological factors. Describes international projects that are community based and action oriented and that incorporate aspects of…

Based on the example of the history of the photoelectric effect as a case in teaching introductory quantum theory, it is argued that the dilemma between "historical truth" and "didactic usefulness" may be circumvented by focusing on a few, carefully selected case studies. The early introduction of the light-quantum is…

Argues that the nature of science has not been emphasized effectively in the professional training of scientists in Pakistan. Describes how the development of science-process skills, an inquiry approach, and constructive learning is delayed. (DDR)

Claims that, in contrast to Hugh Lacey's arguments, current research in nonindustrialized nations demonstrates how a materialistic strategy of scientific understanding may be sensitive to cultural context. Concludes that differentiating ethical and scientific values is essential lest we conflate descriptive and normative processes. (Author/WRM)

Suggests that Hugh Lacey's vision of the schooling of science through the development of critical self-consciousness has been articulated by others at different times and probably from different ideological perspectives. Claims that knowledge of these other opinions will help Lacey in his search for education in science which promotes citizens'…

Argues that most gender-related educational reforms will not foster the social and scientific transformations envisioned by feminist science scholars. Calls for a reconceptualization of science education that includes knowledge of the physical world along with an understanding of the biases and cultural, social, and political contexts of Western…

Adapts Cortes' Multicultural Empowerment Model to science teaching and to Wittrock's Model of Generative Learning and Teaching in Science. Encourages all children to learn science and learn about science. Contains 55 references. (DDR)

Finds that interpretation of Galileo's only known experimental manuscript produces some interesting questions that offer pedagogical applications. Promotes classroom "research games" consisting of reconstructed experiments with Galileo's inclined plane and with other instruments to allow further speculation. (Author/WRM)

Presents an analysis of middle school science students' (n=886) responses to a survey of attitudes toward science as a function of race and gender. Finds that students' attitudes toward some aspects of science are a function of both race and gender. (Contains 15 references.) (WRM)

Traces how the idea of measuring the connection between school science and public awareness of science has emerged. Describes the Program for International Student Achievement (PISA) project's indicators of educational progress in science. Contains 28 references. (Author/WRM)