Results are reported of performance and attitudes of students (N=109) receiving high structure (objectives, reviews, examples, questions, feedback) and students (N=108) receiving low structure (emphasis on content) laboratory manuals and instructions. (SK)

Describes an aptitude treatment interaction (ATI) hypothesis used to investigate relationships among aptitudes and science instructional treatments in terms of student performance. It is proposed that ATI research work in science education will systematically yield reliable generalizations about how to adapt instruction to individuals with…

Describes a heuristic model that facilitates the conceptualization of linguistic-imaginal processes and forms the basis for a method of relating learner aptitudes to specific instructional stimuli in science education. (MLH)

Investigates a method to predict best and least suited students for the ISCS instructional approach. Aptitude-treatment interactions associated with ISCS instruction and a set of aptitude, attitude, and skill factors were utilized to make and verify predictions on two dependent variables--achievement and success. (Author/GA)

Examines the feasibility of intensive instruction (II) in either the observation of details or hypothesis generation, utilizing a discrepant event filmloop, as a model for improving the open exploration skills of ninth graders. (Author/GA)

Determined: (1) if elementary education majors (N=91) from different levels of reasoning ability learned more science concepts under different grouping methods in an inquiry/learning cycle-based physical science class; and (2) if these students became able to reason more effectively under the different grouping methods. (JN)

Examines relationships between factors affecting high school students' (n=142) ability to acquire meaningful understanding of specific biological concepts. Assessment using mental modeling techniques showed a significant correlation between students' meaningful learning orientation and their understanding of a topic. Suggests that perhaps much…

Explored the effects of learning on structural modifications to the periodic table; the location of a periodic table within instructional materials; and the presence of a two-page schema showing relationships between the topics explained in the written materials and the periodic table. Results obtained from 160 students are reported and discussed.…

Investigated superiority of instructional strategies (factor-label method, proportionality, use of analogies, use of diagrams) in teaching problem-solving related to mole concept, gas laws, stoichiometry, and molarity. Also investigated effectiveness of strategies for students (N=609) with different verbal-visual preferences, proportional…

Utilizes ATI methods to study relationships between locus of control and preservice science education achievement in science content and science process under high- and low-structured instructional treatments. Findings show that, overall, a high-structure condition was most effective but that internal students achieved more in a low-structured…

Measured the effects of three variations in the use of diagnostic-prescriptive (DP) teaching on the cognitive and affective biology achievement of high school students (N=93). Variations included: (1) no DP assistance; (2) teacher-managed DP; and (3) student-managed DP. Results favor DP approaches. (Author/JN)

Examined effects of teaching method (self-directed, group-directed, teacher-directed), academic ability, student assessment of treatment, and allowed time on achievement in three Individualized Science Instructional System (ISIS) biology minicourses. Results, among others, indicated that individualized instruction favored high-ability students and…

Describes a study designed to explore sources of influence on the judgements made by science teachers related to school characteristics, classroom features, and properties of a science curriculum. Results suggest that teachers' judgments center around concern for student ability and interest, teaching methods, and school spirit and morale. (TW)