How do teachers help children understand the difference between the structure of a flower and that of a root? Depending on the time of year this activity is quite easy. Get a bunch of flowers, germinate some chickpeas and raid the kitchen for carrots and beetroots--the children can experience the "real thing". But what if teachers want the…

We describe a third-year undergraduate course that focuses on multiscale modeling and protein folding and has as its primary goal the encouragement of students to integrate thinking across and beyond disciplinary boundaries. The ability to perform innovative and successful research work in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics)…

Epistemic criteria are the standards used to evaluate scientific products (e.g., models, evidence, arguments). In this study, we analyzed epistemic criteria for good models generated by 324 middle-school students. After evaluating a range of scientific models, but before extensive instruction or experience with model-based reasoning practices,…

This study describes the analogical models and narratives used to introduce and teach Grade 9 chemical covalent compounds which are relatively abstract and difficult for students. We explained each model's development during the lessons and analyzed understanding students derived from these learning materials. In this context, achievement,…

Contends that school science programs should return to the visionary programs of the 1960's, which developed logical thinking and problem solving. These have since given way to a barren emphasis on fact acquisition and "cookbook" lab activities. (TE)

Argues that science programs developed during the 1960's should be replaced by "science/technology/society" (S/T/S) programs, which build on students' curiosity and concern about local problems. (TE)

Investigated the effects of the reading and logical thinking abilities of average and below-average students in urban high schools on learning outcomes of using the Intermediate Sciences Curriculum Study (ISCS) level and materials. (HM)