Provided in this glossary is an alphabetical list of approximately 300 terms used in science and technical education. The definition or meaning of each term as it is commonly used in these fields is included. The purpose of the glossary is to promote more complete and precise communication between science/technical education specialists and…

Provides a brief analysis of the nature of science teaching and curriculum development in science in Africa during the past two decades. Also suggests possible future directions. Included is a table listing several African curriculum projects with related general principles fostered and materials used. (JN)

Discusses some of the problems faced by technical advisors implementing projects for the improvement of science education in Africa and reasons for these problems. Problem areas considered include underdevelopment, underestimating the process, finances, personality conflict and motivation, and opposition from key groups. (A list of major UNESCO…

During the past fifty years movements to reform science education have used the same ideas for changing the context of science teaching. Policies need to be established for identifying the knowledge and skills necessary for reformulating the science curriculum. (MD)

Studies on science course improvement projects are synthesized, with reactions from several professional organizations. Other reports from the mid-1980s are noted. A brief summary of research findings is provided, with a longer discussion on the impetus for change, the conditions needed for change, and who decides. (MNS)

Describes problem-solving activities in the Unified Sciences and Mathematics for Elementary Schools (USMES) and Elementary Science Study (ESS) programs. Indicates that these curricula serve as excellent sources of activities to develop and improve their students' problem-solving skills. (Author/JN)

Reports results of several studies of the learning environment of secondary science classes using Australian Science Education Project (ASEP) materials. Indicates many desired changes, such as higher levels of pupil activity. (MLH)

Discusses important tenets of the Scope Sequence and Coordination (SS&C) project and presents the SS&C high school project designed specifically to achieve the National Science Education Standards. Specifies the scope, sequence, and coordination of the natural sciences in grades 9 through 12 in support of general goals taken from the…

Whether for use in a special methods course in teaching chemistry or a general methods course in teaching science, this guidebook is designed to assist the methods instructor in the task of fitting the ChemSource materials into the established patterns of the course. Each of three sections contains a number of units that accommodate the patterns…

Presents a classroom activity which can be used both to assess student's modes of thought and to clarify the logic of hypothesis testing. The task is based on Piaget's theories of cognitive development. (HM)

Stresses the fact that science activities can be styled to the visually handicapped students' levels and degrees of independence. Use of extensive hands-on, concrete experiences as emphasized by Adapting Science Materials for the Blind (ASMB) is encouraged. (EB)

Discusses the Intermediate Science Curriculum Study (ISCS) teacher's role. Sources and dimensions of ISCS teachers' role conflict and some of the ways that this conflict has been, or might be, resolved are also presented. (HM)

Discusses reasons for the failure of the post-Sputnik science curricula and offers criteria for selecting relevant curriculum content, suggesting that these curricula focus on problem-solving. Lists seven problem areas (technological, environmental, empirical, historical, aesthetic, philosophical, and futuristic) with recommended topics for each…

Described are alternative approaches for developing visual perception skills found in using selected science experiences. Use of various science programs available, such as ESS, SCIS, OBIS and Matal, is suggested. Visual sequencing is prescribed and described. (EB)

A field trip to a science activity center in Southwest England for secondary school students is described. (BB)