School curriculum and its impact on teaching and learning have received more and more research attention both in the United States and in the international context. For example, the Third International Mathematics and Science Studies (TIMSS) took curriculum and its different forms in the process of curriculum transformation as a guideline to…

The elementary school science curriculum program, Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS), was investigated to determine effects upon students' attitudes toward science and perception of the science instruction. The data show favorable results. (MP)

Describes a study in which groups of high school students of differing ability were presented different introductory "organizers" to test effectiveness of this learning aid in incorporating new material. Results from performance tests and three-week retention tests are reported. Suggested are modes of application for use of organizers in…

This review discusses instructional materials as the physical media through which the intents of the curriculum are experienced. Studies of innovative science curricula are considered, as well as the role of textbooks. (MNS)

The need for developing a geometry curriculum sequence is discussed. Work by a group of about 50 mathematics educators on intuitive aspects of Euclidean classifications and relations is presented. Textbooks were analyzed, a sequence of concept clusters developed, and a scope-and-sequence chart included. (MNS)

In a survey conducted in Iowa, 136 teachers responded to a 52-item questionnaire to evaluate energy education workshops they attended, identify beliefs and practices concerning energy education, and identify perceived knowledge needed in energy education. Materials to create more student involvement in lessons was the top-rated need. (MNS)

Studies on science course improvement projects are synthesized, with reactions from several professional organizations. Other reports from the mid-1980s are noted. A brief summary of research findings is provided, with a longer discussion on the impetus for change, the conditions needed for change, and who decides. (MNS)

Results of six original studies are extracted for comparison in three ways. These are summaries of: (1) reported problems of various groups of science educators; (2) solutions proposed by these same groups to the problems facing science education; and (3) recommendations for future directions. A synthesis of the recommendations focuses on four…

Results of a study to determine the status of environmental education in Kansas public schools is presented. The investigation points out the need for a statewide coordination effort, by pointing out the disparity between rural and metropolitan programs. (MP)

Describes changes in teacher attitudes after completion of an inservice energy education workshop. Although there was a decrease in favorable attitudes towards curricular change, there was a modest, positive effect on participants (N=132) which should help to promote energy education. (DH)

Describes study to determine if children from high, middle, and low socioeconomic groups differed in understanding selected science concepts and in the methods they would suggest to find answers related to the concepts. Results reveal differences. Curriculum planning should take these differences into account. Thirteen references. (PR)

The attitudes of 120 teachers using SAPA or SCIS in two different school districts were analyzed. Responses to questionnaires revealed a wide array of teacher reactions to implementation of newer elementary science programs. Recommends adequate in-service instruction in all areas of program implementation. (CS)

Reports on an August, 1974 meeting at the University of Maryland in which some prominent science educators discussed the impact of the National Science Foundation (NSF) on future science education interests. Global and local areas recommended for NSF impact studies are listed. (CP)