We describe efforts toward the development of a hypothetical learning progression (HLP) for the growth of grade 7-14 students' models of the structure, behavior and properties of matter, as it relates to nanoscale science and engineering (NSE). This multi-dimensional HLP, based on empirical research and standards documents, describes how students…

A framework for teaching scientific inquiry in upper secondary chemistry education was constructed in a design research consisting of two research cycles. First, in a pilot study a hypothetical framework was enriched in collaboration with five chemistry teachers. Second, a main study in this community of teachers and researchers was conducted on…

Assessments associated with learning progressions are designed to provide diagnostic information about the level and nature of student understanding. Valid interpretations of such diagnoses are only possible when students consistently express the ideas associated with a single learning progression level. Latent class analysis was employed to…

Tests O. R. Anderson's theory of kinetic structure of verbal communications by administering lectures on swine flu to high school biology students and then reteaching the lectures with increased commonality. Results weakly support Anderson's theory. Implications are made for training teachers to increase the commonality of their lectures. (CS)

Examines the feasibility of using a time-series design intensively in a school situation. Investigates student attitudes toward a biology class using the operant single-subject design. Despite the developmental nature of this study, it demonstrates that the five-item semantic differential is a valid and easily used instrument. (Author/MA)

The paper divides achievement in chemistry into five independent factors: cognitive, affective, problem solving, routine manipulative skills, and observational modes. The study explores the relationship between student performance in these areas and their responses to a Cognitive Preference Test in chemistry. (RE)

Explores why students fail to learn from teacher demonstrations in a physics course. Reports that six dimensions may have prevented student learning, including lack of a theoretical framework to separate signals from noise, interference of discourses learned in other contexts, interference from other demonstrations and images, and problems in…

Compared the laboratory method versus lecture method for Nigerian grade eight students (n=210). High achievers in both groups had identical achievement, but the low achievers in the laboratory sections performed better than students receiving the lectures. Females receiving lectures performed better than the males receiving lectures. (PR)

Documents the benefits of teaching chemistry through history. The experimental group consisted of seniors enrolled in a teacher preparation program in which they learned how to teach chemistry through the history of science. The results of the analysis of covariance revealed that the experimental group outperformed the control group on an…

Explores the effects of teaching particulate representation of chemistry on the achievement of high school students in terms of gender interaction. Indicates that females who were taught the particulate representation scored as well as males whereas those who were not taught the particulate representation scored significantly lower than males.…

This study explored the dynamics of power relationships in secondary science methods courses taught at an urban university in Southern California for credential candidates. Data collection extended over 10 academic semesters. Employing frameworks of power, self-study, and critical pedagogy, the study analyzes the multifaceted and intricate roads…

Hypothesized that instructional methods employing concrete models and exemplars of a concept will lead to better student understanding at both the concrete and formal operational levels of cognitive development. However, concrete operational students did not profit from the instructional methods and results were not clear for early formal…

Presents a case study of an experienced high school chemistry teacher. Examines the teacher's conceptions about teaching science and compares them with the observed patterns of practice. Highlights the complexity of characterizing a teacher's thinking and its relationship to actions. Discusses the value of the insight researchers gain from sharing…

Presents a case study of problems that can occur when teaching the topic of redox reactions to grade-11 students. Concludes that the teachers' scientific expertise is an important source of difficulties when teaching redox reactions. Discusses implications for improvement of current chemistry classroom practice and content-related teacher…

Compares student achievement and retention scores of secondary school chemistry students who were involved in: (1) learning-for-mastery, (2) personalized system of instruction and (3) control (independent study) modes of remediation work. Higher retention and more objectives were recorded by the learning-for-mastery group. (CP)