One of the easiest ways to capture students sense of wonder is to provide them an opportunity to participate in scientific research and display their findings in a science exhibition. Giving students the freedom to follow their own interests and develop their own science exhibition projects ensures active involvement in the learning process as…

In 2000, Oil City Elementary School faced collapsing enrollment, a high-risk student population, and a reputation as the place for kids who were not smart enough to attend the nearby academic magnet. The school was slated for closure. But the school had a history of connection to Oil City, a town of 1,500 in western Louisiana, and school staff…

The Institute in Physical Science was developed to address the need for updated information and training in physics, chemistry, and technology among teachers of physical science. Five major objectives addressed were to: (1) improve physical science teachers' understanding of fundamental concepts in physics and chemistry; (2) provide physical…

Described are the Undergraduate Research Participation and Student-Originated Studies programs supported by the National Science Foundation. These summer programs offer undergraduate students firsthand research experiences in science and engineering. Students gain a better appreciation of the way science works and experiences in research…

The energy and enthusiasm shown by young students walking through the doors of an interactive science museum is difficult to surpass. Awaiting them is an opportunity to explore, create, discover, and learn about the world. This article presents the interactive science museum project of eight-grade students. Fifth-grade students were the target…

Quality science programs extend well beyond the classroom or school yard. A local shoreline is a great place for inquiry-based "science activities". Students can explore seaweed clumps, conduct a gull census, or implement an investigation of their own design.

The purpose of this study was to describe what federally funded teacher enhancement looks like at its best and to determine whether best practice can be recognized as such by professionals in the field. Narrative descriptions of programs were analyzed for strength of evidence supporting key elements of best practice. Other data collection methods…

Focuses on science competitions by describing the objectives of and strategies used in several types of school competitions. Includes, when applicable, sources of additional information on specific programs (such as the Duracell Scholarship Competition and the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium). (JN)

Suggests that the new context for school science focuses on the real world, real people, and real issues. Areas considered include current problems in science education, the need for a new context, recommendations for a K-12 science curriculum, the science/technology/society (STS) movement, and STS curricula and programs. (JN)

The article describes a program in which disabled students from a special school (Tulse Hill) take general science classes at a nearby London comprehensive school. (SW)

Reviews the educational goals in physics of several international organizations that promote collaboration and encourage educational development throughout the world. Offers a rationale for attending international conferences sponsored by these organizations. (CS)

The Union City Schools have developed a convocation model of science enrichment seminars for gifted students. The model features regional cooperation between districts, colleges, and public and private agencies, in order to provide in-depth instruction at minimal cost. (SJL)

Describes the Corporate Lands for Learning (CLL) program whose goal is to improve environmental education opportunities for students of all ages. Highlights the range of hands-on outdoor programs available for students. (JRH)

Describes an 18-month program for improving science teaching in Texas elementary schools. Designed for teachers from schools of all income levels, the program stressed inquiry learning methods. Teachers learned to write constructivist curriculum modules, which they later piloted at a summer science camp that stimulated children's creative…

The history of the Westinghouse Talent Search from the 1930s to 1991 is discussed. Features of the program are reviewed. Criticisms and praise for the program are presented. (CW)