The quest for the inclusion of science inquiry in the curriculum now spans three centuries. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Armstrong, Dewey, and others espoused the teaching of science inquiry. The launch of Sputnik in 1957 began the strong emphasis on inquiry. Renewed interest in inquiry occurred in the late 1980s and 1990s with science…

This paper argues for extending the definition of "technology" in education to include much more than just computers, and for recognizing the dangers of using technology for its entertainment purposes. Two conceptions of the proper use of technology in science classrooms are offered: (1) technology as tool; and (2) technology as topic. Specific…

A physics program within which students design their own experiments and construct the needed equipment is described. Different projects and equipment designed and built by the students are detailed as examples of the success of this program. (JP)

Describes precautions that should be taken and procedures that should be followed to minimize the risk of accidents in the school science laboratory. (JR)

Discusses the value of laboratory work, suggesting that it is not superior to other aids such as computer simulated experiments (CSE). Advantages of and problems related to use of CSE in the classroom, responses to criticisms of simulated laboratory work, and evaluation of CSE as a teaching aid are considered. (JN)

Outlines procedures demonstrating that the aperture of a microscope objective limits resolving power and then, by using ancillary measurements made with a calibrated graticule in the microscope eyepiece, that the experimentally determined value for the maximum resolving power of a given objective is close to the value predicted by theory. (JN)

Describes a series of laboratory experiments designed to provide concrete experiences with advanced inorganic chemistry lecture topics. Stresses student invention of chemical relationships and periodicity according to physical properties and reaction type. Includes comments on student performance and attitudes toward the experiments. (JM)

Describes apparatus, computer program (for Apple II), and procedures used in an experiment to determine the velocity of sound in air. In addition, the experiment focuses on the attention required in calibrating equipment and the measuring of both long distances and very short time intervals. (JN)

Three-phased learning cycles (exploration, invention, application) were introduced into general chemistry laboratories at Northland College (Wisconsin). Discusses each phase and its use in a learning cycle on the functional groups of organic compounds. (JN)

Describes use of Tinker Toys in several moment of inertia laboratory experiments at the advanced high school or introductory college levels. Includes procedures to be followed, arrangements of the Tinker Toy parts during experiments, and typical student data obtained. (JM)

Macrolab (located at New Jersey Institute of Technology) develops devices, training models, and experiments for the scientific education of handicapped students. The construction and operation of a spectrophotometer for blind and visually impaired students are discussed. Construction details are available from authors. (JN)

Describes an experiment simulating a real-life structure elucidation problem through isolation, characterization, and chemical transformation of an "unknown," naturally occurring monoterpene, with extensive use being made of spectroscopy and aided by biogenetic considerations. Information given to students, procedures, results, and discussion of…

Uses of Zenith Z-100 microcomputers by chemistry students at Clarkson College are discussed. These include: (1) programing; (2) word processing; (3) numerical methods, statistical/plotting programs; (4) laboratory data acquisition and manipulation; (5) simulations; (6) computer assisted instruction; and (7) computer managed instruction. (JN)