The Systems Thinking and Curriculum Innovation (STACI) Project is a multi-year research effort intended to examine the cognitive demands and consequences of learning from a systems thinking approach to instruction and from using simulation-modeling software. The purpose of the study is to test the potentials and effects of integrating the systems…

This bulletin presents reports on science and technology education in the countries of the Asia and Pacific region. The first section is composed of an introduction which defines science and technology and how it is dealt with both within and outside the formal education system. It also summarizes the highlights of science and technology education…

This yearbook, prepared by a committee appointed to look at the teaching of science, makes recommendations concerning the development of science programs at all levels of education, including the teaching of science in college and science teacher education. Chapters 1 through 5 address the following topics: interpretations of what seems to be…

The goals of the Stevens Technical Enrichment Program (STEP) are to seek out economically and educationally deprived high school students who show potential in science and mathematics, and to train and motivate these students to enter college. Students were selected from high schools in Hoboken and Newark, New Jersey, as well as from New York…

Reports on a study that examined the performance and science attitudes of two groups of students in a college chemistry course. One group had enrolled in high school chemistry; the other group had not. There was no difference between groups as to attitude toward chemistry or academic performance. (RT)

Discusses the chemistry component of a five-week summer program for talented high school juniors and seniors at the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences. Describes the chemistry core, lab component, team projects, and program results. (CW)

Identifies assumptions and points out specific design questions which can help guide the development of successful programs to assist nontraditional students. Lists five myths identified as interfering with program development. Also reviews some factors to be considered in evaluating an assistance program and provides a concluding analysis. (JM)

The Search for Excellence in Science Education (SESE) project gives national recognition to outstanding science programs. Descriptions of five high school physics programs selected by SESE are provided. Unique aspects of the programs, instructional strategies, and other areas are included. (BC)

An instructional program based on expert-novice differences in experimental problem-solving performance was taught to grade six students (N=265). Performance was assessed with multiple-choice and open-ended measures of specific transfer. Between-group comparisons using pretest scores as covariate showed treatment condition students consistently…

Biology teachers can take advantage of educational experiences while vacationing during the summer. These experiences include activities at Colorado's Keystone Environmental Center, in the Caribbean, and at National Audubon Society summer camps. (JN)

Provides tabular data and discusses the evaluations from parents and faculty of a year-long course in sex education at George Mason High School in Falls Church, Virginia. (CS)

Descriptions of high school chemistry courses are provided, including organic chemistry, introductory chemistry for mathematics-shy students, and a course for eighth-graders taught by high school seniors. (SK)

Describes a preschool science-based curriculum which encompasses four broad topics: water, small creatures, gadgetry, and environmental terraria. Includes a description and list of activities for each topic. Presents research suggesting that children participating in this curriculum increased their self-directed discovery and verbalized curiosity.…

Outlines objectives for an elementary science camping program and summarizes general operational procedures. Campsite activities related to such topics as microorganisms, eye and sight, nature trails, bees, carpentry, and astronomy are described. (DS)

Described is a science program in Hawaii for high school students in which students are trained in a variety of tasks at a local zoo during the morning hours and then return to campus for coursework. The program offers opportunities to develop responsibility and self-esteem. (SA)