This study reports on an innovative version of adaptive primary literature (APL) that we call Science Behind the Scenes used during a summer professional development (PD) program. Classroom teachers read and discussed papers from the primary literature, and created translations of these papers relevant to their own classroom needs. We randomly…

Addresses the rhetoric of performance assessment with research on important claims about science performance assessments. Discusses findings related to concepts and terminology, sensitivity to task and method, higher-order thinking skills, cost, impact on teaching and understanding, and professional development. Presents a conceptual framework to…

Employs hierarchical linear modeling to examine the relationship between professional development and the reformers' vision of teaching practice. Indicates that the quantity of professional development in which teachers participate is strongly linked with both inquiry-based teaching practice and investigative classroom culture. (Contains 39…

Discusses the concept of pedagogical content knowledge within the context of science teaching. Defines the concept and identifies teaching experience as the major source of pedagogical content knowledge. Contains 69 references. (DDR)

Summarizes case studies developed by a group of collaborating educators. Investigates ways of speaking that encourage students to formulate insightful questions about science topics and express their own ideas during reflective discussions. (Contains 68 references.) (Author/YDS)

Outlines arguments for action research approaches to the implementation of STS education. Presents six teachers' initial views and changing perceptions throughout the duration of an action research project in terms of four categories: nature of STS education, development of curriculum materials, personal/professional development, and collaborative…

Explores the beliefs of inservice teachers about a demonstration classroom component of an in-service program. Results suggest that the demonstration classroom concept is worth further consideration. Contains 57 references. (DDR)

Project LIFE, a state systemic initiatives professional development program for middle-grade life science teachers, has been successful in improving the science content knowledge, process skills, and attitudes toward teaching science of the teachers participating in the project. The essential characteristics of this project are described as a…