Investigated effectiveness of teaching one element of a science syllabus using drama in place of conventional practical work. No statistically significant differences were detected in factual recall, but significantly more "meaningful" learning appeared to have taken place when drama was used. Psychological and educational implications…

An increase in the cognitive restructuring aspect of field-independence was found to be associated with an increase in formal operational thought in 11- to 12-year-olds who were given materials designed to achieve this result. Materials used (including computer programs) are described in an appendix. (JN)

Focuses on the familiar problem of students' understanding of elementary electrical circuits from a much neglected point of view. Suggests that the patterning commonly found in students' ideas might have its roots in the cognitive processing with which students operate their mental models of d.c. electrical circuits. Studies Japanese 10-11 year…

Describes the procedures and techniques employed in a peer-group approach for promoting conceptual change. Explains how a series of cards were used to challenge student's conceptions of energy. Suggests that a systematic development of skills is needed to maximize the benefits of a peer group discussion approach. (ML)

Fifty-three elementary school children were tested on Incidental Science Knowledge, i.e., knowledge acquired by chance outside school, and the results obtained were correlated with intellectual development and cognitive style as measured by interviews and group testing, respectively. Indicates that cognitive style and misconception play a…