Using the methods of ethnography of communication, this three-part study investigates time and timing, social elements, and individual information behavior in sense making. Argues that the sense-making concept captures how information behavior creates meaning and that a research focus on information and information-seeking divides people from…

"Mental modeling" refers to a student's ability to visualize or comprehend the information research process. This article reviews 50 years of changing conceptions of how we learn: behaviorist, cognitivist, and constructivist perspective; describes the application of three "mental models" to interactive technology; and discusses…

Describes the study of a science performance assessment with 96 English Language Learners (ELL) in five high school science classes investigating the face, construct, and consequential validity of an intersection. ELL spelling and syntax on some responses were significant sources of error. Recommendations include increasing the assessment's design…

Presents an activity that reinforces concepts about plant and animal cells. Also gives students the opportunity to see how a battery works and how a series circuit operates. Allows students to be creative and makes them more receptive to learning about electricity. (JRH)

Describes an exploration of how light-up shoes work in which students become a community of scientists through debating, questioning, experimenting, formulating ideas, researching, collaborating, and communicating their understandings. (JRH)

Three studies used computer graphics and/or verbal questioning to examine beliefs among children and adults that vision involves input to the eyes (intromission) or emissions from the eye (extramission). Results showed decreases in extramission and increases in intromission beliefs across age. There were more extramission interpretations with…

Presents a strategy that helps students visualize and comprehend moon phase changes through activities that use an Earth-centered point of view along with direct observations of the moon. Describes activities that parents can use at home to help children become familiar with observing moon phases. (JRH)

Describes a strategy that combines a field trip to a pond with technology such as digital cameras and educational software to help children expand their knowledge about ponds. Involves students sharing this new knowledge using computer writing and drawing tools. Lists science software resources and writing/drawing programs. (JRH)

Speculates on the effect of the debate about evolution as a scientific theory on public perception of science. Cites poll data that suggests that the public and a good number of science teachers have not resolved the issue for themselves. Focuses on the hidden curriculum. (DDR)

Analyzes interactions between a British primary school teacher and her students during sessions of science to determine the extent that the teacher assists in class performance. States the teaching illustrates features suggesting children's science concepts are being developed and features consistent with assisted performance. (BT)

Introduces epidemiology as a health science that is essential as a complement to the basic laboratory and clinical sciences in speech-language pathology and audiology. A definition of epidemiology is presented. Principles of epidemiology, including causal criteria, and concepts such as incidence, prevalence, and risk are discussed. (Author/CR)

Preservice elementary school teachers in Israel (n=608) answered questions about energy concepts. Results revealed the following: (1) many hold alternative conceptual frameworks, not accepted scientific concepts; (2) many do not accept the idea of energy conservation or degradation; (3) they confuse energy and force; and (4) they have an ambiguous…

Focuses on the role of Thought Experiments (TEs) in ongoing processes of conceptual refinement for physicists and physics learners. Analyze TEs related to stellar evolution and general relativity. Identifies the stages at which crucial errors are made in these TEs and the cognitive processes which lead to these errors. Discusses implications for…

Findings from a large database on student learning (videotapes over 10 years in 10 elementary and secondary school classrooms) show that when students engage in conversations in the presence of material objects, these objects provide a phenomenal background against which students can enact metaphorical gestures that embody entities that are…

Discusses using and producing poems as a way of clarifying and accessing children's ideas about science topics. (Author/MM)