Teachers and schools are required by the No Child Left Behind Act to use research-based instructional practices. Although we often think of research as something university professors do, teachers can contribute to the research base on effective instruction by conducting research in their own classrooms.

The results of research on the effects of a non-directive, hands-on approach to teaching science are presented. The research seems to show that students can learn and can function responsibly in an unstructured, hands-on classroom. (MDR)

The problems of individualizing instruction in elementary school science are discussed. A system for teachers to use to monitor their individualization efforts is also presented. (SA)

Discusses the controversy involving the effectiveness of elementary science curricula projects of the sixties and seventies. Reports on a synthesis of the research, student performance, implications, and improvements for the future. States that these innovative programs were more effective in raising student performance and attitudes than…