In this paper, we highlight examples from school mathematics in which invariance did not receive the attention it deserves. We describe how problems related to invariance stimulated the interest of both teachers and students. In school mathematics, invariance is of particular relevance in teaching and learning geometry. When permitted change…

This article is aimed at justifying sensible use of inventive tasks in physics teaching. The justification will encourage teachers to form learners' creative thinking; in particular, the course of physics has the great potential for forming learners' creative thinking. Being adapted to the course of physics, the basic stages to solve inventive…

Student perceptions of science teaching could be expected to differ in grade 6 compared with teaching in grade 9, as could student interest in science learning. To compare Estonian grades 6 and 9, lower secondary school student and science teacher perceptions of teaching/ learning approaches as well as student perceived interests/enjoyment on…

A connection between creativity and curiosity may seem self evident, and, indeed, psychologists and philosophers have long held that creativity and curiosity are related. It seems logical enough. One can imagine that the typical individual is satisfied by the usual solution to a problem or the usual way to conceptualize a situation, but the…

Attracting K-12 students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is viewed as a critical element for benefiting both the economy and society. This paper describes an outreach program, conducted in a Brooklyn, New York, USA, public middle school, aimed at educating students in mechatronics, biology, and…

Imagine two fourth-grade classes. Both contain students of comparable demographics and highly respected teachers each with four to five years of experience. Both classes engage in science curricula that emphasize science and engineering practices as outlined in the "Next Generation Science Standards" (NGSS Lead States 2013). Both classes…

Describes a program where teams of fifth graders and high school junior and senior physics students work together to explore physical science principles and create a student-constructed exploratorium. Incorporates and synthesizes scientific inquiry, hands-on activities, and creative and critical problem-solving approaches in a motivating and fun…

The purpose of this study was to determin the effects of an individualized instruction approach and a teacher centered approach on student achievement of science content and problem solving skills, science interest, and self concept. Eighty-one fifth grade pupils were divided into three classes of 27 each: a teacher-centered active control group,…

Explains a science project conducted by the Boston Museum of Science to provide enrichment activities through an interaction between children and scientists. Provides information on the packets of creative problem-solving experiences, a description of the program, the culminating event, and joining procedures. (RT)