The results of an earlier empirical research study on modifying 'step-by-step' instructions to practical activities requiring one or more steps of the experiments to be designed by students initiated a longitudinal study to investigate the effectiveness of the approach for younger students and over a period of time. The longitudinal study that…

To be able to design a laboratory course it is important to know what laboratory skills students possess before the course starts. This way the course can focus on developing skills in areas that are lacking. Despite the extensive literature on laboratory education, there are few studies on what laboratory skills students have at this stage of…

For this study, a research-based lab module was implemented in two high school chemistry classes for the purpose of examining classroom dynamics throughout the process of students completing the module. A research-based lab module developed for use in undergraduate laboratories by the Center for Authentic Science Practice in Education (CASPiE) was…

Describes a variation of "the suffocating candle" activity used to develop the process of predicting based on reliable data. Instead of using jars of varying sizes under which the burning time of candles is measured, the same jar is used while the candle is elevated on varying numbers of blocks. (CS)

Describes a class project in which students determine the best brand of paper towel in several categories. The activities and experiments completed during the project foster observation, measuring, collecting, data evaluation, writing, and mathematics skills. (BC)

Two descriptive chemistry experiments are presented which foster development of students' skills in making observations and deductions. In addition, the experiments are designed to stress the importance of chemical behavior and clear presentation of experimental findings. (JN)

Presents a demonstration of wave behavior, and experiments of (1) the determination of the mechanical equivalent of heat, and (2) a "discovery" investigation based on the maximum-span staircase. (CS)

Describes 12 video films constituting the "What About" series of the Skills Essential to Learning project. Films begin with an introductory sequence showing a teenager using a particular science skill and concludes with a longer sequence showing a scientist using the same skill. Programs last 15 minutes and follow an identical format. (BC)

Identifies specific science skill activities and discusses how they can be enhanced using the microcomputer in a laboratory setting. Highlights the benefits, advantages, and applications of microcomputers in physics laboratories. (ML)

The major environmental problem of acid precipition is addressed through a series of activities contained in this guide for teachers of grades 6 through 12. Exercises are provided to help students learn science inquiry skills, facts, and concepts while focusing on the acid rain situation. Activities are organized by content areas. These include:…

To cope with some social problems, Japanese educational planners are drafting some proposals for research into innovations in the educational system. This paper reports on some research recently done which looked into the relationships of the Japanese educational environment and the reasoning/thinking skills and process skills of students in…