Recent educational studies have shown increasing lack of interest and participation of youth (ages 10-14 years old) in various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields in the U.S. The decline in the number of youth choosing to study STEM fields in higher education and the resulting lack of STEM professionals in the society…

Described is the course of study for a physics major at Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, Illinois. The program varies from the typical physics curriculum in that classical mechanics is taught in the sophomore year rather than waiting until the junior year as seen in the typical physics major's curriculum. (DS)

This paper reviews science curriculum issues surrounding the education of students with disabilities. The background of science education for these students is explored, and three curricula designed especially for them are examined, including a curriculum from the Biological Science Curriculum Study, the "Full Option Science System," and…

Summarizes major features and broad principles of design determined by the editorial panel of the Australian Academy of Science School Chemistry Project. Features discussed include roles of practical work, theory text and laboratory manual, structure of materials, subdivisions of content in text, writing, and appeals for assistance in the project.…

Examines reasons for dissatisfaction with the limitations of single-discipline approaches to engineering education. Considers the development of a systems-based interdisciplinary course. Provides an example at the University of Bradford. (YP)

Describes the development of systems thinking and the form taken in the study of work and organizations. Discusses some criticisms from social scientists. Explores the relationship among systems, interdisciplinarity, and engineering education. (Author/YP)

Discusses the necessity of interdisciplinary and systems approaches in engineering education for analyzing complex issues. Presents several recent problems. (YP)

Recommends systems subjects as part of college curricula for providing students with broader skills and with background that does not become outdated. Topics included are requirements of a basic examination, cooperation with other professionals, and examples of systems technologies and interdisciplinary research. (Author/YP)

Argues that systems thinking can be developed by experiential learning activities which complement both intradisciplinary projects and technical knowledge inputs. Discusses the development of systems thinking, the form of engineering curricula, and assessment. (Author/YP)

Describes modular science units for use in New Zealand primary schools. Includes a description of format, trial units, final product, and list of titles, as well as samples of a title page and page from a teacher's guide. (DS)

This study defines some of the educational ecosystems that encourage students to discover science interests and science talent. Six interrelated constructs are discussed. Construct 1 consists of a skein of achievement-centered, goal-targeted environments that comprise the inspiring teaching and learning that can enhance the endowments of students.…

Presents a state-of-the-art review of acoustics and its interaction with branches of the sciences and arts. Identifies the current divisions of acoustical study as classified by the American Institute of Physics. Provides descriptive summaries of ten different countries' instructional programs in this discipline. (ML)

The African Primary Science Programme (APSP) was one of the three major projects in Africa sponsored by Educational Services Incorporated (ESI), later the Educational Development Center (EDC), Newton, Massachusetts. The problems of introducing this programme in the anglophone African States and its implications for science education are discussed.…

Described is part of the O.P.E. laboratory computer-based biology program designed for undergraduate medical and biology students. Described is an embryology dialogue in which the student proceeds through three stages in the knowledge and understanding of the concept of competence. (Author/DS)

Described is Xavier University of Louisiana Piagetian-based general chemistry program. Laboratory experiments are in the learning cycle format and place emphasis on learning by doing. Aspects of the curriculum described include synopses of content covered, laboratory-preceding lectures, list of laboratory experiments covered, and evaluation of the…