Argues that research for teacher use would be more effective if it were: (1) of the form referred to as naturalistic case studies and (2) oriented toward discovering cognitive and social interaction mechanisms underlying the learning processes in classrooms. (Author/SK)

Instrumentation, methodology, and analysis techniques were developed to measure changes in adolescents' (N=10) skills in linear distance estimation. Microcomputers were used to present and control amount of information available to assist students in said estimations. Results and implications are reported. (Author/SK)

Presents excerpts of an interview with Philip Morrison, Institute Professor of Physics at M.I.T., who has made significant contributions to areas ranging from high-energy astrophysics to elementary school science education. (Author/SK)

Describes a versatile mount for Slinky wave demonstrator and dynamics experiments using pool balls which have been altered by various means such as hollowing out or filled with lead. Suggests tightening screw holding motor clamp to prevent random speed fluctuations in ripple tanks. (JN)

Presented in chart format are items from over 200 suppliers of science education materials, including textbooks, tradebooks, program/resource materials, media, and laboratory and other equipment. Addresses of suppliers, grade level/subject area, and supplementary resources are also provided. Includes listing of firms providing sources but which…

Argues for a scientific philosophy that views theory not as absolute truth but as a model that attempts to explain reality and promote inquiry. Proposes that science teachers build upon students' existing knowledge by first presenting simple, less accurate but more comprehensive models and later discussing the weaknesses. (DC)

Summarizes descriptions presented at a symposium at the recent American Association for the Advancement of Science meeting in Washington, D.C. on how science and mathematics are taught at the precollege level in some countries that are the U.S.'s chief competitors in science and technology fields. (Author/JN)

South Australian students were surveyed to determine what science topics they would prefer to study and how they would like to study them. Results for all students (N=753), boys (N=400), and girls (N=353) are reported for the 15 most popular topics and preferred study method. Includes implications for science instruction. (SK)

Descriptive information relative to the historical background of the development of a new, uniform secondary school biology curriculum in China is provided. This curriculum, introduced in 1979, is designed to contribute to the achievement of national goals aimed at the modernization of agriculture, industry, defense, and science and technology.…

Reviews current brain research and implications for science instruction. Includes discussions of correlations between Piagetian stages of cognitive development and human brain development, arousal and attention mechanisms, and hemispheric specialization. (SK)

Describes a self-paced undergraduate environmental science course focusing on a theme that earth is similar to a spaceship inasmuch as: (1) both possess finite room and resources, and (2) living things are dependent upon life-support systems for continued survival. Includes a list of laboratory and learning activities. (DS)

Describes a method to allow direct observation of a chick embryo development from three days to about 17 days of incubation, by culturing the entire embryo in a petri dish. (DS)

Surveys social, economic and environmental characteristics of Japan in the 1960s and 1970s and describes their influence on curriculum changes in secondary science education. Discusses Japanese attitudes towards nature as a foundation for environmental education, the impact of western culture on this attitude, and the future of environmental…

An observational instrument called the Laboratory Interaction Categories-Student (LIC) is described. The LIC is an easily understandable and usable tool for assessing pupil laboratory performance. (MP)

Describes ways platyfish can be utilized in biology activities and experiments. Includes an account of the animals' care, unique anatomical characteristics, reproductive behavior, and genetics. (DS)