Researchers and practitioners alike express concerns about the conceptual difficulties associated with the concepts of momentum and kinetic energy currently taught in school physics. This article presents an in-depth analysis of the treatment given to them in 44 published textbooks written for UK secondary school certificate courses. This is set…

This study employed hierarchical linear models (HLM) to investigate Peer-Led Guided Inquiry (PLGI), a teaching practice combining cooperative learning and inquiry and tailored for a large class. Ultimately, the study provided an example of the effective introduction of a reform pedagogical approach in a large class setting. In the narrative, the…

Determined whether small groups would stimulate creativity more than individualized learning environments for fifth- and sixth-grade students (N=111). Results indicated that small groups were more creative with electrical circuits and that this grouping format should be used in elementary classes. (Author/DH)

Found that a text mode of programed instruction and tutorial computer-assisted instruction are equally effective modes of instruction for teaching internally- and externally-oriented preservice elementary teachers (N=81) the integrated science process skills. (JN)

A remedial instructional strategy (developed and implemented in ninth-grade physics classes) was found to significantly affect low/mixed ability students' achievement. The method was developed on the basis of a needs assessment of students' backgrounds and a detailed task analysis of the physics course's cognitive demands. (JN)

Investigated preservice physics teachers' ability to make judgments of observed teaching during one of two courses. Students in an inductive course (N=24) engaged in peer teaching before receiving instruction in theory. Students in a deductive course (N=26) received instruction in theory before peer teaching. (JN)

Reports on a study designed to investigate how the use of computer assisted instruction (CAI) tutorial programs, incorporating advance organizers and involving various sizes of groups of subjects, would affect achievement scores, retention scores, and rates of learning. (TW)

This study used a microcomputer program which diagnosed and remediated an alternative conception of velocity. Results show computer simulations are credible representations of reality and that the remedial part of the program produces significant conceptual changes in students holding the alternative conception. (Author/JN)

Examined are the effects of testing on the achievement of students using self-instructional materials to learn science process skills. Results indicated that frequent quizzes did not differentially affect process skill acquisition. (Author/CW)

Investigates the remediation of misconceptions through application of Gagne's hierarchical learning theory. Uses stoichiometry, food levels, and conservation of mechanical energy as the target concepts. Reports that there was no treatment effect in analysis of covariance using pretest scores as a covariant. (YP)

Investigated were the effects of interactive computer-generated homework on unit tests, a final examination, and a comprehensive test given near the end of a Physical Science I course. The results indicated that the use of the homework reduced the effectiveness of the American College Test scores as a predictor of course achievement. (YP)

As an alternative guide to science teaching, a generalized theory of scientific observation defined in terms of human intentions and purposes is offered. The generalized theory, while based on assumptions different from those of the science education theory, can still account for the plausibility of many aspects of that theory. (JN)

Evaluates the attributes of a microcomputer software package as a supplement to chemistry instruction. Reports higher scores among the students in a control group. Discovers no significant interaction between treatment and development stage. Discusses several implications for further research. Provides the General Chemistry Test and error analysis…

Summarizes the results of a symposium of the National Research Council on the state of research knowledge on teacher quality. Identifies four areas where additional research is needed. (TW)

Describes Diagnosis for Instruction in Problem Solving (DIPS), a new line of research for science educators interested in interdisciplinary efforts and ways in which computer technology might be used to better understand how to improve science teaching. Outlines the basic architecture of DIPS in terms of instruction and research implications.…