The aim of this study was to elicit students' conceptions about big bubbles in boiling liquids (water, ethanol and aqueous CuSO[subscript 4] solution). The study is based on twenty-four students at different ages and grades. The clinical interviews technique was conducted to solicit students' conceptions and the interviews were analyzed to…

In one of the classic free-fall experiments, a small mass is attached to a strip of paper tape and both are allowed to fall through a spark timer, where sparks are generated at regular time intervals. Students analyze marks (dots) left on the tape by the timer, thereby generating distance-versus-time data, which they analyze to extract the…

This investigation delineates a multi-year action research agenda designed to develop an instructional model for teaching the nature of science (NOS) to preservice science teachers. Our past research strongly supports the use of explicit reflective instructional methods, which includes Thomas Kuhn's notion of learning by ostention and treating…

Introductory statistical mechanics is studied for a simple two-state system using an inexpensive and easily built apparatus. A large variety of demonstrations, suitable for students in high school and introductory university chemistry courses, are possible. This article details demonstrations for exothermic and endothermic reactions, the dynamic…

Science educators advocate hands on experiences and the use of manipulatives as important for children's conceptual development. Consequently, the utilisation of "Lego" robotic technologies in teaching and learning has become more prevalent in school science classrooms. It is important to investigate their value as educational tools, particularly…

At first almost ignored and unread, Sadi Carnot's analysis of heat engines--published 150 years ago--contained ideas and methods that were developed later by Clausius and Thomson. Carnot's ideas and their influence on later science are discussed. (Author/RH)

Understanding the nature of science, especially how scientists err, is an essential tool for: (1) assessing the reliability and scope of scientific claims; (2) perceiving the scope of these claims; and (3) making personal and public decisions. What features of the nature of the science are most important to know? Recent consensus highlights the…

Lotka's Law, originally applicable only in physical science, is shown to apply reasonably well to the humanities. (Author/RS)

Relates the background and chain of events associated with the discovery of oxygen and Lavoisier's theory of combustion. (DS)

Reviews the life of Sir Isaac Newton, stressing his contributions to science and society. (CS)

Examines 24 revolutionary scientific figures mentioned in the "Structure of Scientific Revolutions" to determine whether young scientists are more likely to make revolutionary discoveries than older scientists. Suggests that middle-aged scientists are responsible for initiating more scientific revolutions than young scientists given the proportion…

Many in the science education community identify Kuhn with a sociological approach as opposed to a philosophical approach. Attempts to liberate Kuhn from too close an association with the sociology of scientific knowledge. (Author/CCM)

Discusses the nature of science education as an essential aspect of the phase-model of scientific development. (Author/CCM)