States that science courses present modern derived knowledge to be learned and applied to exercises. Proposes looking at the process of problem solving as an exercise in the scientific method against a historical background in social context with information about personalities involved. Uses an example moving from vague concept of element to a…

Argues that research and teaching in physics and in the history of physics are complementary in nature. Explores some of the implications of this perspective. Contains 69 references. (DDR)

Traces the evolution of physics teaching and research in Bucharest and Jassy, the two most important Romanian intellectual centers. Reports on three stages of historical development and selected biographies of Romanian scientists are included. (DDR)

Outlines and defends claims about the metaphysical nature of the theory of Democritus; the modified theories of Gassendi, Boyle, and Newton; and the chemical atomic theory of John Dalton. (DDR)

Argues that Albert Einstein preceded Karl Popper in formulating the fundamental premises of hypothetism. Presents the original text and ideas from an article published by Einstein in 1919. (DDR)

Provides historical information on the incorporation of physics as a subject into secondary schools in Spain. Cites religious and political tensions as early roadblocks to curriculum development. (DDR)

Describes the first moon-radar echo experiment conducted by Zoltan Bay in Hungary and comments on Bay as a model for contemporary physics education. (DDR)

Outlines an ideal physics curriculum where key ideas are learned using an apprenticeship model. Discusses the implications of a shift towards Internet-based learning. (DDR)

If science education is to be related as closely as possible to science, then Thought Experiments (TEs) must play an appropriate part. Presents a typology of TEs with examples drawn from the history of physics and addresses their various uses in bringing about students' conceptual development. Finds appropriate use of TEs is lacking in physics…

Argues that cookbook chemistry laboratory experiments do little to teach scientific inquiry. Suggests providing students with laboratory experiences that follow the introduction of a concept and challenge students to investigate that concept through an experiment involving very few initial instructions. Lists some such challenges used in chemistry…

Twentieth century science is producing a wonderland of paradoxes, a new scientific literature of subjective, imaginative writing, a validation of all creative expression in the arts, and interaction with the so-called subjective and pseudo sciences from psychiatry to the paranormal. Cartesian dualism and reductionistic thinking have formed the…