Mobile device accelerometers are a simple and easy way for students to collect accurate and detailed data on an amusement park ride. The resulting data can be graphed to assist in the creation of force diagrams to help students explain their physical sensations while on the ride. This type of activity can help students overcome some of the…

As highlighted by the National Math Panel Report (2008), consistent results from laboratory studies have demonstrated that interleaving worked examples with problems to solve improves learning for novices. The purpose of this work is to create materials and tests that can be used flexibly in classrooms and which employ worked examples interleaved…

The authors explore the role of comparison in improving graph fluency. The ability to use graphs fluently is crucial for STEM achievement, but graphs are challenging to interpret and produce because they often involve integration of multiple variables, continuous change in variables over time, and omission of certain details in order to highlight…

The author describes a student visitation and recruitment program, "Look into Vocational Education" (LIVE) sponsored annually by the Capital Area Vocational Center in Springfield, Illinois. During the three-day program, nearly 1,000 high school sophomores visit vocational programs and interact with teachers and current students. (CH)

The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of psychomotor skill instruction in crop production provided by agricultural production teachers in Illinois and the methods used for this teaching. Responses from 79 of 100 teachers indicated that most do not have students observe or practice a procedure for skill improvement. More experienced…

Questionnaires were used to evaluate the impact upon visitors of 21 demonstration centers provided for by the Illinois Plan for the Gifted. Results indicated that the centers as a group adequately informed their visitors about the demonstrated program, convinced them of the programs' merits, and caused a minority of visitors, who were already…

THIS PROJECT WAS DESIGNED TO DETERMINE A SPECIFIC APPLICABILITY OF USING CLASSROOM DEMONSTRATION FILMS AS PART OF TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAMS, INSTEAD OF THE CONVENTIONAL TECHNIQUE OF LIVE CLASSROOM OBSERVATION. A SERIES OF 20 FILMS WAS PREPARED FROM FOOTAGE OBTAINED DURING THE COURSE OF 77 MEETINGS OF A NORMALLY SCHEDULED CLASS IN THE UNIVERSITY…

A state system of about 20 demonstration centers was developed in Illinois to exhibit a variety of model programs for gifted children, ranging from kindergarten to high school. Subjects ranged from foreign language to dance and dramatics. Evaluation indicated low quality in too many centers. The centers performed best on the awareness function,…

Questionnaires were completed by 691 public school personnel visiting demonstration centers operated by the Illinois gifted program in over 20 school districts. Data indicated that the centers, intended to illustrate innovative educational techniques, were generating a good view and acceptance of the overall nature of their programs, but were not…

Science fairs have the potential to help students develop new ways of solving problems using a scientific approach. This document is intended to be used by junior high students in planning and developing a science fair project. Several suggestions are offered to help students decide on a project, with a listing of 60 topical areas in science…

Science fairs have the potential to help students develop new ways of solving problems using a scientific approach. This supplemental guide was developed for those teachers involved with science fairs as well as others who work with students in developing a project. Several reasons for holding a science fair are listed, along with some…