Highlights activities of the National Science Teachers' Search for Excellence in Science Education (SESE) program. The program involves searching for exemplary programs which can become models for designing new programs. A list of six SESE exemplars chosen for onsite study is provided. (JN)

Three approaches to philosophical inquiry (analysis, articulation, antimony) are explored in a commentary on "Philosophy and Education: Eightieth Yearbook of the National Society for the Study of Education." A discussion of the sometimes-contradictory school role in providing both educational excellence and socialization illustrates how…

Determined degree to which Malaysian biology teachers (N=26) perceived they understood and used inquiry teaching. Data indicated that these teachers perceived they had a moderate amount of knowledge about inquiry and occasionally used the 21 inquiry-related behaviors assessed by "A Generic Problem Solving (Inquiry) Model" (Hungerford,…

Two curriculum development strategies for preservice teachers' field-based experiences are analyzed. It is argued that a "personalized" approach to field-based experiences is misguided, and an "inquiry-oriented" approach is presented as more justifiable. (CJ)

Compares the editorial policy and appeal of the "National Enquirer" to the "Skeptical Inquirer" which is published by the Committee for the Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal. Presents an overview of the common sense approach of the latter, its format, topics, and sample content. (DC)

Described is the development of a test battery measuring nine enquiry skills in three general areas: using reference materials, interpreting and processing information, critical thinking in science. Validation data are reported from the administration to a large sample of junior high science students. (CS)

Examines historical roots of major trends of the New Social Studies--social sciences v social studies, inquiry, ethnic and global perspectives, and future studies. The major objective is to improve social studies by helping social studies classroom teachers become aware of and understand the contributions of these trends to their discipline. (DB)

A demonstration is described that encourages students to engage in inquiry in biology. Using chemicals and an overhead projector, the instructor can simulate a living organism projected onto a screen. The reaction can aid students in defining the characteristics of life. (SA)

The competencies needed by a successful teacher in instruction are those needed to do whatever is required, within moral limits, to (1) change the truth value of the premises in the practical argument in the mind of the child, or to (2) complete those premises, or to (3) add to the range of premises accessible to the child in the formation of…

Argues that in order to have bona fide inquiry experiences, students must formulate their own questions, create hypotheses, and design investigations that test those hypotheses and answer the proposed questions. (DDR)

Focuses on the use of push and go toys to discuss with students how the toy acquires potential energy when work is done on it and how this energy is stored in the internal mechanism for later conversion into kinetic energy. (DDR)

The purpose of this study was to determine if factors to predict success in college biology (i.e., prior knowledge of biology or reasoning ability) depend on the instructional method employed (i.e., expository or inquiry). Reasoning ability was found to account for a significant amount of variance in final examination scores, regardless of…

Discusses the ninth-grade trial implementation of the Scope, Sequence, and Coordination (SS&C) project and compares this class with the non-SS&C class that preceded it. Reports that the project helped teachers create a more inquiry-oriented learning environment and helped students perform at least as well as non-SS&C students on…

Describes how to use whole language instruction in the music classroom. Discusses the various aspects of whole language instruction, such as authentic learning experiences, whole concept, learning that focuses on inquiry, the importance of social interaction, and reflection. Lists appropriate activities. (CMK)

Explains and analyzes three British information literacy models, focusing on the need to ensure that they work for students, teachers, and library media specialists. Describes criteria that are critical to an inquiry-based learning perspective in each of the three major phases of an inquiry process. (LRW)