Describes a project that involves high school students in research in different disciplines at Stockholm University. Teaches students how to design a study and research plan, accomplish the work, and write a research report. (Author/YDS)

Described are the history, formation, and observing techniques of meteors and comets. Provided are several pictures, diagrams, meteor organizations and publications, and meteor shower observation tables. (YP)

Describes a system of interactive astronomy whereby nonscience students are able to acquire their own images from a room remotely linked to a telescope. Briefly discusses some applications of Charge-Coupled Device cameras (CCDs) in teaching free fall, projectile motion, and the motion of the pendulum. (JRH)

An annotated bibliography of books about non-Newtonian physics written by physicists for the lay reader. Organized into three sections: (1) a listing by titles; (2) classification of the books by subject heading; and (3) an annotated bibliography arranged by author. (LZ)

Describes a procedure for ascertaining secondary students' misconceptions about concepts relating to astronomy. Summarizes results that indicate the usefulness of the approach and the range and extent of the misconceptions which could be revealed. Makes suggestions about how to use the technique in such a way that the findings will challenge the…

Presents an historical perspective of astronomy. Discusses how Columbus' discovery of America demonstrated the incompleteness of the ancient knowledge of the world and paved the way for unorthodox astronomical ideas, including the sun-centered cosmology of Copernicus. (MCO)

Presents a short biographical sketch of the great mathematician, Henri Poincar, whose significant achievements in mathematics were applications within the fields of astronomy and physics. (JJK)

Discusses the loss of female talent in the physical sciences and with it the debate about the desirability of stronger measures to increase the number of women scientists. Provides the results of surveys, interviews, and meetings dealing with the issues of job discrimination, sexual harassment, and general social treatment. (KR)

Discussed is the way in which a limited number of astronomy research initiatives were chosen and prioritized based on a consensus of members from the Astronomy and Astrophysics Survey Committee. A list of recommended equipment initiatives and estimated costs is provided. (KR)

Describes an introductory astronomy course for undergraduate students in which students use three-dimensional (3-D) modeling tools to model the solar system and develop rich understandings of astronomical phenomena. Indicates that 3-D modeling can be used effectively in regular undergraduate university courses as a tool to develop understandings…

Finds that computer simulations can be used to visualize the processes involved with lunar tides. Technology adds value, thus opening new paths for a more distinct analysis and increased learning results. (Author/CCM)

Details a project designed to bolster the quality of astronomy education through teacher workshops. Workshop topics include the solar system, stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, and cosmology. The Learning Approach Questionnaire (LAQ) is used to determine the effects of the workshops. (DDR)

Explains how hands-on science activities can be done in a class designed as a lecture setting. Uses the collapsing can activity to demonstrate the birth of a black hole. Evaluates student responses to the hands-on approach. (YDS)

A questionnaire of 19 questions given to a total of 433 students in college preservice training for future high school teachers showed that science and nonscience majors held a series of misconceptions on several central topics in basic astronomy. (Author)

Describes a stimulating interactive group project on measuring the lengths of solar days that directly supports concepts related to orbits, motion, and time in a physics or astronomy curriculum, and has the flexibility to extend from a few days to several weeks. Provides new measurement experiences for students and teachers and opportunities for…