Concept mapping was used to tap the conceptual disciplinary (science subject) knowledge and pedagogical knowledge of seven biology and six geography teachers with short or long teaching experience. Results indicate that knowledge in both areas is unsatisfactory, experience does not improve the knowledge, and teachers mastered disciplinary…

This study documented the teaching practices of 2 exemplary biology teachers of grades 11 and 12 by means of an interpretive research methodology. Teaching practices are identified that may be considered exemplary and worthy of attention and analysis by other science teachers and science teacher educators. (PR)

This study quantified possible changes in the classroom learning experiences of high- and low-ability pupils, which might accompany an organizational change from streamed to mixed-ability classes for science learning in secondary schools. Deteriorations in the quality of the classroom interactions of both high- and low-ability pupils were found.…

Presents a course outline for the study of biotechnology at the high school or college level. The outline includes definitions, a history, and the vocabulary of biotechnology. Presents a science experiment to analyze the effects of restriction enzymes on DNA. (MDH)

Describes an extra credit science project in which students compete to see who can build the most efficient water rocket out of a two-liter pop bottle. Provides instructions on how to build a demonstration rocket and launching pad. (MDH)

A review of 66 reports involving science education for students with disabilities finds that specific instructional strategies and techniques have produced generally beneficial effects. Results support previous recommendations for science education based on documented characteristics of these students using appropriate instructional variables,…

Three commercial products for data acquisition with the Macintosh computer, known by the trade names of LabVIEW, Analog Connection WorkBench, and MacLab were reviewed and compared, on the basis of actual trials, for their suitability in physiological and biological teaching laboratories. Suggestions for using these software packages are provided.…

A study of 658 University of Arizona medical school graduates compared standardized test scores, grade point averages, and family practice clerkship evaluations for students selecting family practice and non-family practice specialties. Family practice graduates scored lower on the national licensing examination, but there was no difference in…

Asserts that efforts at establishing cross-curricular programs with art and other subjects are well established. Questions whether the goals and content of visual art instruction are trivialized or lost in such programs. Provides three criteria that can be used to test the integrity of interdisciplinary programs. (CFR)

The Image Processing for Teaching project provides a powerful medium to excite students about science and mathematics, especially children from minority groups and others whose needs have not been met by traditional teaching. Using professional-quality software on microcomputers, students explore a variety of scientific data sets, including…

Reports on a study of 323 Nigerian secondary students to determine what relationship exists between preferred and actual classroom environments and their approaches to learning science. Finds that Nigerian students prefer more teacher control, a less competitive atmosphere, and less emphasis on student friendships. (CFR)

Describes the following seven approaches to integrating technology with science education: (1) instructional technology, (2) technology as a method of inquiry, (3) technology as cultural knowledge, (4) technology as vocational training, (5) technological literacy as process and manipulative skill, (6) science-technology-society, and (7) design and…

Explains how computer database technology can be used in the herbarium and be a useful aid in teaching botany and plant taxonomy. (PR)

Presents a simple model that can help students think about evolution and better understand the gradualist and punctuationist macroevolution approaches. The model also improves instruction for concepts of mutation, selection, fitness, extinction, and origin of life. Describes an IBM computer program for instruction in these areas. (PR)

Describes the selection and implementation of an authentic assessment model for evaluating students' science laboratory knowledge and skills. Provides sample problems and a scoring form for the performance-based science laboratory test. (MDH)