How do you know what students in your course "took away" with them? Why not ask? Through a learning portfolio assignment, I invited students to show: how they met the course objectives; connections they made to other courses as well as aspects of their lives; and their views and perspectives about the course material and processes. They…

Teachers and scientists indicated, by questionnaire, that elementary science curricula should emphasize the importance of biology for self-understanding and the development of positive attitudes toward science. Secondary level curricula should emphasize subject matter, history of science, and application of biology in life. (CP)