Contemporary philosophy of science is controversial and includes debate about the relativity of scientific knowledge and the rationality of scientific enterprise. Crucial questions and important ramifications for science education are presented through discussion of these philosophical disputes. (DH)

Analyzes the relationship between Karl Popper's philosophy and a 1912 paper by F. G. Hopkins which was instrumental in convincing scientists about merits of the vitamin theory. Concludes that Hopkins' work was convincing because it subjected a theory (which was the center of attention) to the severest possible tests, supporting Popper's position.…

Describes a hands-on physics exercise, entitled "The Triangle of Science" designed to review math skills, estimating and approximating skills, and help to develop students' appreciation of the limits of scientific investigation. (ZWH)

The limits of falsification are discussed and the historically based models of science described by Lakatos and Kuhn are shown to offer greater insights into the practice of science. The theory of natural selection is used to relate biology to philosophy and scientific method. (Author/JN)

A discussion of the "Martian Canal" controversy and how it can be used to help students understand the workings of science is presented. (MDR)

Describes the major components of the solar system and proposes several features that a theory about the solar system should include. Contains explanations of several theories about the origin of the solar system. (TW)

Provides activities that help students to understand the importance of the scientific method. The activities include the science of fusion and cold fusion; a group activity that analyzes and interprets the events surrounding cold fusion; and an application research project concerning a current science issue. (ZWH)

Discusses 10 myths of science including science finds answers to questions, science states causes, sample size is irrelevant to science, evidence can definitively confirm a hypothesis, scientists are always open to new ideas, peer acceptance of results is unimportant, science operates independently of society, science precedes technology, and…

Explains the techniques of experimenting with the protozoan Colpoda cucullus to learn about its habitats, dispersal and adaptations. (LS)

Methods used to investigate problems in the sciences include building-up strategies, insight, and change (or serendipitous discovery). Discusses appropriate learning experiences for the undergraduate science students so they are more likely to benefit from the second method of scientific discovery as they make a career in their chosen field. (JN)

Presents a science activity that illustrates the need to collaborate in scientific inquiry. The example utilized describes the methods used by the Roman doctor Galen to treat epilepsy. (MDH)

Reviewed are experimental methods (diffraction, spectroscopic, and resonance methods) used to obtain the structural parameters of bond angles and bond lengths in molecules. The valence shell electron pair repulsion theory (VSEPR) is summarized and applied to several real molecules. (CS)

Looks at fossil collecting from the viewpoint of the amateur and the professional. (CP)

This review is organized under these headings: aims of science education; the image of science; why a philosophy of science; the nature of scientific knowledge and the role of theory; scientific method; practice of science by the community of scientists; and the role of practical work. (JN)

Describes an earth science laboratory approach designed to involve students in an ongoing method of solving problems; student questions and discussion provide the basis for laboratory exercises. (Author/SL)