This position paper proposes the enhancement of teacher and student learning in science classrooms by tapping the enormous potential of information communication and technologies (ICTs) as cognitive tools for engaging students in scientific inquiry. This paper serves to challenge teacher-held assumptions about students learning science "from…

This interview with Distinguished Science Award recipient Louis J. Gross highlights essential computational skills for modern biology, including: (1) teaching concepts listed in the Math & Bio 2010 report; (2) illustrating to students that jobs today require quantitative skills; and (3) resources and materials that focus on computational skills.

A continuing challenge to the undergraduate chemical engineering curriculum is the time-effective incorporation and use of computer-based tools throughout the educational program. Computing skills in academia and industry require some proficiency in programming and effective use of software packages for solving 1) single-model, single-algorithm…

This 21st Century Skills Map is the result of hundreds of hours of research, development and feedback from educators and business leaders across the nation. The Partnership for 21st Century Skills has issued this map for the core subject of Science.

Reports on a program designed to increase computer literacy of faculty and to help them incorporate the use of microcomputers into their classes. The approach included formal 2-week summer workshops and peer groups to facilitate development of discipline-oriented microcomputer applications. (JN)

Mage is a graphics program developed for visualization of three-dimensional structures of proteins and other macromolecules. An application of the Mage program is reported here for developing interactive instructional graphics files (kinemages) of much smaller scale. Examples are given illustrating features of VSEPR models, permanent dipoles,…

Discusses computer/computing experiences at Ardsley High School (Westchester County, New York) to foster computer literacy and to show students how computers can be used to check/verify calculations. Focuses on programs developed for chemistry classes and problems with commercially available programs for physics. (JN)

Provided is a collection of papers on computer literacy and simulation originally published in The Physiology Teacher, supplemented by additional papers and a glossary of terms relevant to the field. The 12 papers are presented in five sections. An affirmation of conventional physiology laboratory exercises, coping with computer terminology, and…

Lists: (1) educational uses of microcomputers; (2) goals of a microcomputer selection committee; and (3) goals to be achieved by students owning microcomputers. Discusses progress made by the selection committee, faculty development in computer literacy, current preparations being made for the arrival of the microcomputers, and computer uses in…

Compares and contrasts the approaches taken by museums and schools in computer education. Reviews representative museum computer programs as "Keyboards for Kids" for preschool children of the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia and the teacher training project of Boston's Museum of Science. Offers perspectives on expanded program options.…

Presents a corporate official's 12-point plan for the private sector to provide immediate support for public education in technology. Industry's role in stimulating parents, in curriculum development, and in providing financial support are considered. Other areas/issues considered are upgrading graduation requirements, basic building blocks of…

Discusses current uses of microcomputers in schools. Also provides a rationale for educational computing based on economics, computer literacy, and equality of opportunity needs. Needs of educators, fears of educational computing, computer literacy in science education, and training science teachers to use computers are also discussed. (JN)

Reports the history, instruction, teacher training, and evaluation of a computer-programing course in China. Suggests some questions and problems relating to the course. (YP)

Discusses the features and advantages of the computer language PROLOG, and explains the approach taken in teaching it as a first computer language. Includes an example of the use of PROLOG in programming a science lesson on elements for junior high students. (ML)

Discusses how instruction in computer literacy will fit into the present school curriculum (particularly science) and the nature of an adequate scope and sequence for this subject area. A model K-12 computer literacy curriculum is presented with a corresponding scope and sequence chart. (JN)