This paper charts the recent history of the STEM Learning UK contracts with local Science Learning Partnerships (SLPs) and identifies what leadership has been made available to support the Early Years and Primary school sector. A case study approach is taken using 'Super SLP' hubs in England. Curriculum Hubs exist in core subject areas such as…

Active learning is recognised as a crucial component of university courses in enhancing performance and retention. However, universities face numerous challenges in broadening the provision of active learning, including time constraints, and a lack of staff training and confidence to develop appropriate activities. This article outlines an…

A novel "Whiteheadean" science program was initiated in England and Wales in September 2006. Following a critical House of Commons report in 2002, the government altered the National Curriculum targets and thus forced the Examination Boards to alter their specifications in order to come in line. Assessment at GCSE level (i.e., the 14-16…

Provides information concerning physics education programs at 171 institutions classified into the following categories: universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and university departments of education. Each institution is listed separately, and the information typically includes degree requirements, program structures, entrance…

Piaget's work is seen as a basis for the assessment of a projected course. The stages of a course ought to follow the same order of increasing logical complexity as are present in the pupils' own development. (LS)

This survey of the middle schools of the Leeds Education Authority includes statistics concerning laboratory facilities, the number and the education of science teaching staff, the average size of science classes, and the type of science course content. (MLH)

Describes a study of the influence of the Cognitive Acceleration through Science Education (CASE) program on the scientific creativity of secondary school students. Scientific creativity is measured by the Scientific Creativity Test for Secondary School Students. Results indicate that the program did promote the overall development of scientific…

Discusses the value of work experience for A-level students and describes some novel student placements. (JRH)

Describes using problem solving in science instruction and the advantages derived from this approach. Authors' experience suggests there are many problem-solving approaches in physics, technology, and biology but that chemists have not yet made an impact. Presents two case studies in problem solving in chemistry from the Creativity in Science and…

Describes an action research project, "Girls into Science and Technology" (GIST), which focuses on girls' subject choices in the first three years in their secondary schools in the north of England. Summarizes the initiatives taken by the GIST team and reviews research findings and project outcome. (ML)

Describes a small-scale study of a course that placed emphasis on context- and activity-based science. The Salters' science course makes use of a wide range of learning strategies. Author concludes that pupils' interest and enthusiasm for school science may be increased through a combination of using pupil's everyday interests and employing a wide…

Describes the "Master Classes in Physics for Young People" Saturday program offered for students in schools in Sussex, England. Explains the program format, topics addressed, and level of student involvement. (ML)

This article describes a project that involved two groups of able students (ages 11-14) identified by teachers to work on problems set by two local industries. The project was designed to enrich the curriculum by developing problem solving skills and understanding of the application of science and technology in industry. (CR)

Reports on a study done at Oxford University on why young people chose to pursue a career in the physical sciences and engineering. Characteristics of schools that appeared to influence students to pursue a study of science were also investigated. Currently, England, Australia, Canada, China, Japan, and Portugal have contributed information to…

Describes the planning and implementation of a science week intended to raise the awareness of science in an elementary school. Educational requirements included exciting science happenings and concentrated science teaching of a high standard. The week included demonstrations, guest speakers, and schoolwide assemblies. Demonstrations included the…