The Framework for K-12 Science Education and the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) underscore the importance of including engineering design process (EDP) within the science curriculum. The Framework and the NGSS raised engineering design to the level of scientific inquiry in an attempt to prepare a STEM-literate workforce for the 21st…

Graduate teaching assistants (TAs) play an important role in undergraduate programs in our Earth Science Department. A course on teaching and learning was developed to train graduate students in student-centered pedagogy, in a discipline-specific context. The training course has been running for a decade and has been taken by over 100 graduate…

We describe the impact of a hybrid Earth and space science course, taught online and complemented by a 2-hour face-to-face lab, on the science teaching self-efficacy of elementary preservice teachers over a 3-year span. Guided by the two overarching objectives of engaging students in the content and increasing their comfort level with teaching…

As part of a Howard Hughes Program for Innovation in Science Education grant at Iowa State University, a series of interdisciplinary graduate teaching assistant learning communities (TALC) were developed. The purpose of these communities was to create an environment to facilitate teaching assistants' pedagogical development and training to enhance…

Surveyed college teachers about teaching modes, use of instructional aids, conditions relevant to teaching, changes that could optimize teaching, and ways professional organizations can help. Selected results (based on 873 forms returned out of 2,050 mailed-response rate of 43 percent) are presented and discussed. (JN)

Describes a demonstration that shows the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll. Uses an overhead projector, a solution of chlorophyll, and a diffraction grating. (RT)

Offers perspectives on the placement and value of statistical studies in science education. Cites examples from the field of chemical education that address evaluation concerns and problems. Points out factors to consider and questions to ask in reviewing research studies. (ML)

Offers perspectives on approaching and teaching a biology course for nonmajors. Proposes that teaching less may better prepare students to become more scientifically literate. Identifies areas and priorities that may effectively contribute to students' understanding of science. (JM)

Presents the background and rationale for the Science as a Way of Knowing Project. Also offers suggestions for incorporating the teaching of science as a way of knowing into science classes in general and in the teaching of evolution in college courses in particular. (JN)

Lists and discusses 10 tips to improve science instruction. Areas addressed include questioning techniques, seat assignments, use of chalkboard and overhead projector, communication skills, explaining why a topic is being covered, use of demonstrations, and stopping a lecture on time. (JN)

Explains an interdisciplinary approach to biology and writing which increases students' mastery of vocabulary, scientific concepts, creativity, and expression. Describes modifications of the clustering technique used to summarize lectures, integrate reading and understand textbook material. (RT)

Studied effects of unit sizes of reading materials on students' progress rates in an educational psychology course with a self-pacing instruction. Concluded that small unit size could aid in promoting studying behaviors, without the corresponding increase in the number of units being felt as a greater burden. (CC)

Helping students to make essential connections of science content is often difficult, yet necessary to ensure a true understanding of science. A teacher offers insights on how pyruvic acid can be used to help students make connections in chemistry and biology. (ZWH)

Explains methods for teaching geology in an enjoyable way through a multidisciplinary, multimodal approach which highlights applications and relevance in an integrated manner. States that it does not endanger formal course content. (RT)

Explains the effects of examination fear and anxiety on student performance. Cites ways instructors can intervene to help alleviate the problem and better promote learning. (RT)