Provides a brief analysis of the nature of science teaching and curriculum development in science in Africa during the past two decades. Also suggests possible future directions. Included is a table listing several African curriculum projects with related general principles fostered and materials used. (JN)

Discusses some of the problems faced by technical advisors implementing projects for the improvement of science education in Africa and reasons for these problems. Problem areas considered include underdevelopment, underestimating the process, finances, personality conflict and motivation, and opposition from key groups. (A list of major UNESCO…

During the past fifty years movements to reform science education have used the same ideas for changing the context of science teaching. Policies need to be established for identifying the knowledge and skills necessary for reformulating the science curriculum. (MD)

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)

Discusses reasons for the failure of the post-Sputnik science curricula and offers criteria for selecting relevant curriculum content, suggesting that these curricula focus on problem-solving. Lists seven problem areas (technological, environmental, empirical, historical, aesthetic, philosophical, and futuristic) with recommended topics for each…

Examines issues and developments surrounding early National Science Foundation (NSF) curriculum projects, providing a conceptual basis for understanding present science education issues on re-education of teachers and redesigning science curricula. The scientific community had great control on the NSF projects but did not consider new…

Describes the evaluation and revision of the O-level Nuffield chemistry student and teacher curriculum materials. Includes a discussion of the rationale for the evaluation process and the methodology used. (JN)

Criticized are the National Science Foundation (NSF) funded curriculum reforms during the post-Sputnik epoch. The parallels and contrasts between the proposals of today's NSF and those supported during the late 1950s and early 1960s are outlined. The proper role of a policymaking body in American education is recommended. (YP)

Describes the development of the Nuffield chemistry curriculum materials by chemistry teachers and how these materials were received and used by a much larger and representative group of the profession. Includes comments on teaching Nuffield chemistry, the Nuffield examination, and on Nuffield chemistry outside of Great Britain. (JN)

Presents the Nuffield Junior Science Project (NJSP), an elementary science program developed in the United Kingdom. Some learning activities that are contained in Nuffield Junior Science Teacher's Guide I are described. (HM)

Describes the philosophy, development, content structure, and general instructional strategy of BioCom, an introductory biology curriculum for the heterogeneously mixed high school science classroom. Discusses recent recommendations by national commissions and science education research and similarities and differences between BioCom and ChemCom.…

Detailed are the origins, development, and implementation of the Crustal Evolution Education Project (CEEP). This group has produced, for use in earth science and other classes in grades 8-10, a series of instructional modules based on current scientific research in the composition, history, and processes of the earth's crust. (BT)

A longitudinal study was conducted which focused on the concerns of elementary school teachers who were involved in implementing the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS) curriculum. Two major questions were addressed: (1) Do stages of concern exist? (2) If so, are they developmental? The sample consisted of teachers attending summer…

Described are the organization, development, and piloting of this K-6 science curriculum program. Results of the pilot study are presented including the improvement in student and teacher attitudes. (CW)

For many educators, gathering, organizing, and maintaining materials involved in inquiry-based science and math activities can seem daunting. This handbook is designed to help teachers in the task of gathering and maintaining materials to make kits for 42 activities derived from the Great Explorations in Math and Science (GEMS) Program at the…