This work presents a proposed model in blended learning for a numerical methods course evolved from traditional teaching into a research lab in scientific visualization. The blended learning approach sets a differentiated and flexible scheme based on a mobile setup and face to face sessions centered on a net of research challenges. Model is…

The Institute for Research in Schools (IRIS) was set up to give science students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects. Teachers and students can access data and equipment that enable them to tackle real-life issues. As a result, not only do students gain in confidence and experience in their scientific work, they are also able…

Research experience is increasingly considered an important component of science education at the secondary school and undergraduate levels. This paper presents a case study of students learning in a unique apprenticeship model in which students are engaged in long-term (18 month) open-ended research projects in physics that are done at the…

Undergraduate research can support students' more central participation in physics. We analyze markers of two coupled shifts in participation: changes in students' views about the nature of science coupled to shifts in self-efficacy toward physics research. Students in the study worked with faculty and graduate student mentors on research projects…

This essay discusses the effectiveness of a graduate course for physics students, with a course goal to write a publishable article on a modern research topic (graphene). I analyze the tools used to this end, which included Web 2.0 methods, in-class discussions and presentations, as well as extensive peer-review. In addition to producing a…

Quality pedagogical tradition of Central European countries, in which the Croatian school system existed and evolved, helped in the establishment of the Department of Methodology of Teaching (in several disciplines) at the University of Zagreb and other Croatian universities (Split, Rijeka and Osijek). Unfortunately, it was not too long ago that…

Reviews research and apparatus utilized in the study of the states and characteristics of materials at very high temperatures and pressures. Includes three examples of the research being conducted. (SL)

In January 2005, the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) was awarded a three-year ITEST grant (Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers) through the National Science Foundation (award #04-23417). This "AMNH-ITEST High School Science Research Program" aimed to target 120 urban high school youth, grades 10-12, from…

Discusses the role of the Francis Bitter National Magnet Laboratory of the Massachusetts of Technology, and its significance in the world of research. Applications of research on magnetism to medicine are emphasized. (SA)

Presents a historical overview of developments in ionospheric physics and examines relationships between federal funding and knowledge growth in this field. Summarizes the views of ionsphere researchers on funding, the role of funding program managers, and the nature of funding agencies. Reviews advancements related to entrepreneurs and resources…

Reports on the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) physics department. Surveys the philosophy and objectives of the program, its organization, rules, funding, growth, atmosphere, problems, and accomplishments. (Author/CP)

Research and technology in the Federal Republic of Germany enjoy international distinction in many fields; indeed, German achievements in highly important areas have set new standards and influenced research and development world wide. This applies in equal measure to the natural sciences, the humanities and, in particular, to the applied…

The objectives and design of a 3-year study of research training and supervision in biology and physics are discussed. Scientific problems arising from work on the thesis will be a focus for the postgraduate students and their supervisors. Attention will be focused on supervisors' and students' conceptions of science, subject range, research,…

Describes the implementation and evaluation of a nondirected student research project that aimed at acquainting students with some of the procedures used by physicists in the real world. Outlines specific project designs used by the students. (JRH)

Points out advantages and disadvantages of industry-university research programs from industry and university viewpoints. Identifies conditions essential for long-term success of such arrangements. Also provides a case study of practices at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), discussing policy guidelines and giving examples of joint…