This publication relates the experiences of seven K-8 teachers who participated in a science education doctoral cohort group during which each of the teachers engaged in a different real-world scientific research project. The idea was to immerse teachers in scientific research so that they could experience inquiry in science first-hand and become…

Since a large gap exists between the rhetoric of reform-minded teacher education and what actually transpires in student teachers' field experiences, this study sought to fill a gap in current scholarship which has yet to document how mentor teachers, conceptualized as school-based teacher educators, shape and conduct their work with student…

Describes an interactive computer game (for Apple II) designed to challenge students' problem-solving skills. The game is appropriate for science/mathematics classes from high school to college (particularly in logical problem-solving units). Includes game design/operation and list of characteristics of scientific research (as applied to general…

Because of the unpopularity of the inquiry method, most new government texts are of the straight narrative type. Many educators believe that civics curriculum materials are subject to censorship by special interest groups. Regarding goal achievement, many believe civic education has not trained students to accept their civic responsibilities. (RM)

If students are expected to become interested in science as a career or hobby, they must perceive their science courses as being useful. Student perceptions of usefulness of curricula were investigated relative to two agricultural programs taught in Israeli elementary and junior high schools. (PB)

A study of 15 gifted high school freshman investigated changes in learning style after a year of schooling in a technology-rich environment dedicated to constructivist learning. Although the results were inconclusive, learning styles were influenced by exposure to technology: computers affected the exploration and presentation of content and…

Presents a curriculum designed to infuse environmental concepts and attitudes into the middle school curriculum. Developed through an educational partnership with industry, this curriculum focuses on the establishment and maintenance of backyard wildlife habitats. (DDR)

Argues that general education has not traditionally emphasized inquiry or research skills. Discusses the School for New Learning at Chicago's DePaul University, which focuses on the development of critical skills and inquiry in undergraduates. Argues that self-directed learning is best suited for the demands of the 21st century. (34 citations)…

This article discusses the paucity of gifted females taking advanced math and science courses and the widening gender gap in computer science courses and the information and technology (IT) field. A list of Internet resources that examine this issue is provided, along with resources for fostering IT skills in girls. (CR)

Criticizes the National Science Education Standards for using an example lesson that contradicts support for students engaging in scientific inquiry. Suggests a multiculturally inclusive approach engaging students in a role-playing activity as members of the University of Alexandria. Students are involved in scientific inquiry with Eratosthenes,…

Defines the New Wave movement in Australian teaching practices. Provides examples of ways in which it has enlivened the secondary curriculum by relating learning to the issues affecting the lives of young people. Argues that although the British national curriculum resists initiative of this type, there are ways to build on the Australian example.…

Data are presented from the first-year of a 4-year research project that aims to design a model for describing exemplary communicative practice using signed classroom discourse in the teaching of students who are deaf. Episodes are presented to illustrate how 10 teachers engage in dialogic knowledge building and exemplary communicative practice.…

Discussion of inquiry and technology within elementary and secondary school science curriculum focuses on WISE (Web-Based Inquiry Science Environment) that was developed to provide effective designs for inquiry activities and assessments, technology supports for students and teachers, authoring partnerships to create a library of inquiry projects,…

Describes a science activity appropriate for middle and high school students investigating the temperature, pH, and conductivity of a man-made lake. Uses an inquiry-based interdisciplinary approach. Collects and analyzes data to determine whether there is any significant difference among the factors considering the very little variance in lake…

Discusses the appropriate use of inquiry among students, teachers, and library media specialists. Topics include planning for an inquiry research project; collaboration between the library media specialist and classroom teacher; national goals, standards, and best practices; teacher roles for inquiry; and evaluating inquiry research. (LRW)