Herein, we present a program implemented in Python that utilizes a simple complete-search algorithm to determine the geometry of a lanthanide-substrate (LS) complex. The program serves as a practical project in a programming course for chemistry students, specifically aimed at illustrating fundamental concepts such as decision-making, repetition,…

In this article, we report on sixth-grade students' responses to a set of problem activities that required the application of mathematics, science, and engineering knowledge in designing and constructing a paper bridge that could withstand an optimal load. Increasing students' application and awareness of their disciplinary learning and how they…

What our century requires is an individual who can recognize and solve a problem, think in a critical manner, are productive, responsible, and open to innovation, and are capable of cooperating with others. The requirements of our era are also reflected on education. Education systems change and improve accordingly; thereby new education systems…

Integrating engineering and science in the classroom can be challenging, and creating authentic experiences that address real-world problems is often even more difficult. "A Framework for K-12 Science Education" (NRC 2012), however, calls for high school graduates to be able to undertake more complex engineering design projects related…

Describes some experiences of 30 teachers who met at the Tsongas Industrial History Center in Lowell, Massachusetts, to develop motivating, interdisciplinary activities for middle school students around science, technology, and industry. Discusses interdisciplinary problem solving using the design loop and presents six problems related to corn and…

Presents an example of a problem-solving opportunity found in a daily newspaper. Illustrates how the newspaper can supply problem-solving opportunities with connections to language arts, social studies, and science. (ASK)

Describes the development of a computer case-study template for integrating basic science concepts with clinical problem-solving processes in medical education; multimedia and interactive resources of Macintosh HyperCard software were used. Discusses design considerations and how the format works for the author and the student. (AEF)

A number of space science resource materials and activities are developed into a useful format for classroom presentation. The application of mathematical properties in making scientific discoveries is the major emphasis. Each section has a discussion centered on the men and history behind the discovery of physical laws and phenomena relevant to…

Discusses the features and advantages of the computer language PROLOG, and explains the approach taken in teaching it as a first computer language. Includes an example of the use of PROLOG in programming a science lesson on elements for junior high students. (ML)

Presents a mathematical problem that, when examined and generalized, develops the relationships between power and efficiency in energy transfer. Offers four examples of simple electrical and mechanical systems to illustrate the principle that maximum power occurs at 50 percent efficiency. (MDH)

This paper describes changes in students' ideas about science classes, attitudes about science, and motivations for studying science in a classroom designed to support project-based science learning. Findings indicate that providing students with opportunities to collect and analyze their own data in science classes results in a change in…

This issue of ENC Focus focuses on the topic of inquiry and problem solving. Featured articles include: (1) "Inquiry in the Everyday World of Schools" (Ronald D. Anderson); (2) "In the Cascade Reservoir Restoration Project Students Tackle Real-World Problems" (Clint Kennedy with Advanced Biology Students from Cascade High…

Presents an integrated math/science activity that shows students the differences among the three types of volcanoes using observation, classification, graphing, sorting, problem solving, measurement, averages, pattern relationships, calculators, computers, and research skills. Includes reproducible student worksheet. Lists 13 teacher resources.…

Presents a lesson using chocolate chip cookies to involve children in scientific investigation and mathematical reasoning. (Author/MKR)

Discusses a child-centered science project in which first-grade students integrate design drawing, construction, mathematics, and language arts to solve engineering problems related to constructing robots. Describes the construction of the robots, follow-up activities, and educational research that supports this approach to teaching. (10…