Emphasizes the importance of imagination in scientific discovery and science education and identifies three processes which increase the richness of the visualization experience: relaxing, concentrating, and seeing. Suggests topics for guided experiences and example models for earth/space, life, and physical sciences. (DC)

Effects on students' (N=44) achievement and attitudes of cooperative, competitive, and individualistic instruction were compared in ninth-grade physical science classes. Results indicate that cooperative learning experiences promoted mastery and retention of material being taught as well as moreover positive attitudes toward the experience than…

Reports the results of a study which investigated the relationship between learning style characteristics and left/right hemispheric preference of high school biology students (N=353). Concludes that a statistical significance exists indicating that different settings and instructional approaches are necessary to better promote learning. (DC)

Investigated cognitive development of eleventh-grade students (N=389) in Jordan and its relationship to comprehension of concrete and formal physics concepts. Results revealed that cognitive level (17% formal; 52% concrete) was related to comprehension of both concrete and formal concepts. Findings related to sex differences are also reported.…

Provides a general overview of humor and its use in educational settings and makes specific suggestions to educators who want to include or increase its use in their classroom. Discusses characteristics, benefits, categories, student perceptions, stages of humor, sources and forms of humor, and pacing. (DC)

Describes some results of a project funded by the National Science Foundation to investigate ways to make a college biology course accessible to visually impaired students, including use of tactile diagrams as an alternative to microscopes and a variety of measuring techniques. (Author/SK)

Presents the fourth in a series of articles on high fidelity sound reproduction. Discusses high fidelity sound systems, including the acoustics of the listening room. (Author/SK)

Summarizes two research studies on: (1) suitability of science reading materials at CSE and O levels, and (2) effects of single sex and coeducation on science subject (N=1200) preferences and choices at 14+. Discusses spider diagrams, what is science, and problems and solutions in chemistry teaching in post-16 institutions. (DS)

Describes a high school biology course using 17 learning activity packages for individualized instruction based on the Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS) Yellow Version. Topics discussed in detail include the learning activity packages, the use of computers, and evaluation of the program. (CS)

Discusses "integrated science" as an aspect of curriculum development, including its relationship to common culture and disciplinary knowledge and the problem of defining "scientific knowledge for all." (CS)

Reviews developments in chemistry curriculum/instruction, providing lists of chemistry cassettes, monographs, educational literature from the Royal Society of Chemistry, new teaching packages, and course materials for science in society. Extends information presented in a previous article (EJ 235 051) appearing in this journal. (JN)

GEO-Study, an NSF-sponsored study, conducted by the American Geological Institute (1962-64) to examine the educational environment of 44 geology departments, initiating a change in United States geological education. Discusses the early years of development and study (emphasizing undergraduate geological education) and the last 10 years during…

Discusses dice model of exponential radionuclide decay; glancing and collinear perfectly elastic collisions; digital capacitance meter; use of top pan balance in physics; microcomputer calculation of gradient of straight line (includes complete Commodore PET computer program); Fresnel lenses; low-voltage radiant heater; Wheatssone's bridge used as…

Reliability, validity, and standards-setting procedure for a criterion-referenced test (Test of Metric Skills) were examined for use in science curricula. Results indicate a number of factors influencing test reliability/validity and that science teachers need to be aware of these factors to enhance accuracy of their judgments. (Author/JN)

Describes a set of Science Reasoning Tasks which are valid and reliable for assessing the ability of children to use concrete and formal reasoning strategies and can be used by science teachers without professional training in Piagetian studies. Thirty pupils can be tested on each task in about 50 minutes. (Author/DS)