Shows the difficulties of understanding the hypothesis a posteriori. Describes a scientific method containing phenomenologic, hypothetic, and theoretic phases. Provides the results of an experiment on simple pendulum oscillation by using this method. (YP)

Discusses the possibilities of accelerating the rate of cognitive development and describes the design and trial of intervention lessons. Gives preliminary results from one laboratory school indicating that the possibility of accelerating general cognitive development is worth pursuing. (YP)

Investigated were 17-year-old British students' comments on their previous science education. Satisfying science education entails (1) relevance, coherence and continuity; (2) concern for student needs; (3) and practical work such as inquiry activity. (YP)

Introduces different methodological strategies in analyzing potential energy surfaces (PES) used in chemical reactivity studies. Discusses the theory of PES and gives examples to be used for student work. Provides procedures for calculating normal coordinates and vibrational properties of an activated complex. (ML)

Lists 24 frequently asked questions concerning hydrogen as a fuel with several responses given to each question. Emphasized are hydrogen production, storage, transmission, and application to various energy-consuming sectors. Summarizes current findings and research on hydrogen. An extensive bibliography is included. (ML)

Describes a method of ranking the concepts in science texts in terms of these criteria: importance to the curriculum and student interest; the development of the concept in the text; and the level of background knowledge expected of students. Argues that these ratings should guide instruction. (RS)

Describes the integration of text previews (teacher-developed synopses of the text) and three-level study guides (encouraging factual, inferential, and problem solving responses). Claims a combination of these constitutes a powerful strategy for content area reading. (RS)

Tests of computer literacy and computer anxiety given to (n=17) preservice teachers in a secondary science teacher preparation course featuring a cognitive science framework with an integrated microcomputer component found increased microcomputer usage 4 years later. Includes follow-up questionnaire. (Author/MKR)

Explored three modes of performance-based assessment: portfolios, portfolio-based simulations, and simulation exercises. Fifteen high school biology teachers completed 11 assessment activities. The primary finding is that performance-based assessments can be designed and administered, teachers can complete them, the assessment can be rated, and…

Discussion of how visual analogies aid students' understanding of math and science focuses on new types of representations that use computers. Topics addressed include understanding and cognitive performance; the role of representations in understanding, including examples; evidence of instructional effectiveness of new representations; and…

Describes a range of critical incidents that was used with experienced and trainee teachers in order to promote discussion and reflection on the nature of science. Discusses teachers' views on critical evaluation of practical work, reliability and replicability of experiments, accepted scientific explanations, scientific evidence, religious…

Administered a laboratory process skills test to 147 year-5 students to assess their investigations, performance, and reasoning in biology, chemistry, and physics. Reports significant correlation between performance and amount of homework done and students' perceptions of several aspects of the classroom environment including personalization,…

Verified the efficacy of concept and Vee mapping heuristics under cooperative, cooperative-competitive, and individualistic whole-class learning conditions in improving (n=808) eighth graders' achievement in ecology and genetics. Experimental groups achieved significantly better than the control groups; students in cooperative-competitive…

Argues that the changing informational content of biology, tightening cost constraints, improving electronic media, increasing pressures from advocates of animal rights, and the growing evidence of the effectiveness of electronic modes of instruction are undermining the traditional belief that all students in biology should have the benefit of…

Describes a case study of an advanced physics class that analyzes the implications of using computerized journalizing. Reports that this technique provides a vehicle for students and teachers to make their knowledge public, builds an atmosphere for valuing the conceptual understanding of others, and mediates an ongoing dialog between the…