Although teachers in principle are prepared to make use of science centers, such excursions often fail to facilitate learning processes. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the link between science centers and schools. The design and evaluation of valuable outreach projects may enhance students' out-of-school science learning. In our study, we…

Describes the primary science project of the Science Education Programme for Africa. Program uses the total environment, inquiry, and direct experience for learning purposes. Ideological bases of the project are discussed. Advantages and disadvantages are stated plus implications for curriculum, teacher training, and resource allocations. (BC)

Recent trends and changes in science education include: change from content to process-oriented instruction; discovery learning; increasing relevance; environmental education; use of objectives; use of learning theories; and integrated science. Stresses the need to improve the science background of teachers, especially if integrated science is…

Maintains that traditional science education presents students with scientific facts to be memorized and then regurgitated on tests. In problem-posing science education the emphasis lies on understanding rather than on memorization; on attitudes and skills rather than on retained knowledge. Three sample lessons are given. (Author/BC)

The Comprehensive Instructional Management System (CIMS)-Science program is designed to support teachers in teaching the "New York State Elementary Science Syllabus." The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on inquiry approach to learning and includes an assessment component comprised of written tests and performance-based tests, designed to…

Reviews 12 professional books dealing with the following topes: (1) children's literature; (2) literacy development; (3) young writers; (4) discovery science and nature; (5) whole-language resources on butterflies and on dinosaurs; (6) mathematics; (7) engaging children in literacy; (8) early childhood curriculum; (9) the High/Scope Perry…

Explores the interrelationship between a conception of science teaching and the nature of a knowledge base for science teachers, outlining a history of curricular efforts in medical education. The article proposes a generative conception of science teaching and develops the role of three associated knowledge bases. (SM)

Examines changes in elementary science teachers' education, noting the fragmented status of school science. Few elementary teachers have strong academic backgrounds in science or fundamental knowledge of elementary science program content. Understanding preservice teachers' alternative conceptions and misconceptions about the nature of science is…

Discusses Joseph Schwab, a reformer who worked on the Biological Science Curriculum Study (BSCS), noting how BSCS texts implemented his ideas, and the reformer Gerald Holton's ideas, arguing for a science curriculum that includes social dimensions, attitudes associated with inquiry, and processes employed to construct scientific knowledge. (SM)

The task force of the American Chemical Society's Division on Chemical Education, which was formed to implement curricular change in chemical education, outlines recommendations that should be part of the curricular change process. The recommendations are divided into groups of areas altering course material and areas altering process goals of the…

Discusses the content of and rationale behind the steady expansion of natural science instruction during the past 20 years at all school levels, in all types of schools in West Germany. Follows the content versus process orientation debates that have characterized curriculum reform in the natural sciences. (DB)

Mastery learning can combine the strengths of direct instruction with the strengths of discovery learning. This paper describes how mastery learning is being used in Missouri schools to enhance the quality of instruction in science at all grade levels. In addition, the dramatic results in student science achievement that have occurred within the…

Proposes middle-school curriculum integrating two diverse disciplines (home economics and science), incorporates social issues, and deals with fundamental concerns of young adolescents. Three major areas are included in framework: food additives for appeal, science of textile fibers, and chemistry of household cleaning. All should be taught by…

The purpose of this guide is to provide teachers with information that will help them better understand how to teach science. In addition, this resource is intended to be a tool in assisting teachers in developing their science curricula and in planning their instruction. The instructional approach presented reflects the philosophy that students…

Reviews experiences from the science curricula developed by the National Science Foundation in the 1950s and 1960s for their relevance to national standard-setting efforts today. Experiences include choosing standards of success that fit available expertise, emphasizing professional development, and defining the target audience clearly. (SLD)