This study revamps and optimizes the teaching and learning process and instrument for the classic binary vapor-liquid equilibrium experiment by combining activity coefficient model simulations and practical exercises. Our teaching process combines a software simulation and practical exercises. Utilizing Aspen software, students can predict phase…

Presents the rationale behind the need to teach the metric system and includes a description of the most important metric units. The stages through which children pass as they develop an understanding of the process of measurement are discussed. Bibliographic material is included. (EB)

Distinguishes between problems" and exercises" in science teaching, and disscusses the use and abuse of problem-solving in physics instruction. Suggests that the essence of problem-solving is the element of creativity and challenge. The implications of this idea for science teaching is discussed. Bibliography. (LC)

This inquiry began with the observation that learning from instruction is radically more efficient for obtaining information than learning by discovery. A series of seven experiments was conducted to determine some of the factors involved in learning from verbal instruction. The perspective adopted was that of communication theory, in which the…

Describes exploratory activities for a young child seeking to become acquainted with the world in which he lives. (EB)

Reported is a study of the effects of using the counterintuitive event in science teaching on subject-matter achievement and subject-matter retention of upper-elementary school students. Two separate units of instruction based on the demonstration-discussion method were designed for the study. A unit of instruction was designed for the control…

Numerous mathematical examples are presented which illustrate and raise questions about students' tendencies to overgeneralize. (BB)

Discusses Piaget's and Skinner's approaches to instruction and indicates the possibility of a muddled education system through the superimposition of the new theories on the older ones. (CC)

Intended to aid teachers help students discover the concept of human beings interrelating and interdependent with their environment. A science activity used with sixth grade students involved in a functional recycling system for newspapers is described. The program grew into a community-wide project, incorporated with city council. (EB)

Described is the nature of scientific enterprise, the nature of thinking and problem solving, and the nature of science as an adventure. It is suggested that teachers of science could use this book to help make science education a liberating and intellectually stimulating experience. It is a book which treats exhaustively the theoretical and…

The purpose of this study was to test the learning by discovery controversy. Three seventh-grade science classes of above average readers were selected and randomly assigned to one of three experimental treatments: discovery, guided discovery, or programed instruction. The instructional materials were derived from the Michigan Science Curriculum…

Some ways in which exploratory activities of the preschool child involve science concepts are described. The role of adults knowledgeable about both science and child development is stressed. Emphasis is placed on hands-on experiences. (EB)

Hands-on experiences are encouraged and some examples given to promote discovery learning for the very young. (EB)