Considers how to integrate theory, research, and practice in human performance technology. Discusses human learning; market pull versus knowledge push; using inquiry to connect theory, research, and practice; constructivist examples; behavioral and cognitive approaches; and differences in research methodologies. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Considers ways in which faculty can "unblock" the way of inquiry while examining the areas of open-mindedness and critical reflection. Asserts that to foster these attributes in postsecondary education students they need to be embraced by the faculty, and that without these constructs we remain trapped in the traditions of knowledge experts and…

Proposes that educators answer the question "What is social studies?" by utilizing normative methodology where a concept, in this case social studies, is evaluated and then modified to develop an applicable definition instead of implementing either a descriptive or conceptual methodology. Provides guidelines for arriving at applicable definitions…

Shows that before students can begin doing research and inquiry on their own, they need to experience extensive nonfiction reading and writing and learn to generate questions and find resources. Offers a list of strategies and ideas that will help prepare the teacher, students, parents, and other teachers for the inquiry process. (SR)

The new teacher education programs envision professional teachers as continuous learners rather than "finished" products. Teachers must understand subject matter deeply and flexibly so they can help students create useful cognitive maps, relate ideas, and address misconceptions. Teachers need opportunities for year-long apprenticeships,…

Illustrates the role of technology and multimedia in enhancing research through the use of examples from qualitative approaches to inquiry. Discusses characteristics of qualitative techniques; impact of technology and multimedia on data collection, analysis, and presentation; using research for educational change; and improving research practices.…

Describes a supervision method that brings together teacher candidates and supervisors to cultivate candidates' disposition toward and ability to construct knowledge. Two case studies illustrate the method, which considers teaching a reflective, inquiry-based, knowledge-producing activity and considers supervision a process where candidate and…

Discusses how to promote scientific and technological literacy within a science methods course. Describes the rationale for the design of the course, the structure of the course, prospective students, the types of technological tools, the integration of those tools into the course with examples of student-constructed artifacts, and challenges…

Reviews some of the student competencies from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Argues that these competencies focus on data collection, analysis, and presentation and are easily integrated with science curriculum reform at the same grade levels. Contains 39 references. (DDR)

Presents a series of activities conducted in an outdoor environmental classroom. Activities focus on a sensory scavenger hunt, microhabitat, and gourmet ants. Explains how expectations and teacher attitudes should adjust in order to teach in a different type of classroom. (DDR)

Presents a case for using wood frogs to study biology with students. Offers tips on where to find the eggs, how to care for them, what to expect as they hatch, and how to engage students in a study of their stages of development. (DDR)

Describes a process for moving toward high levels of mathematics and science learning for all students. Presents the collaborative inquiry process and a framework for integrating it into systemic mathematics and science education reform. Proposes steps for developing a learning-centered systemic action plan. (ASK)

A study involving 75 elementary students, 51 with high-incidence disabilities, investigated variables associated with learning in an inquiry-oriented approach to the study of density and buoyancy. Preconceptions, scientific predictions, and academic achievement measures were not predictive of task performance. However, grade level and IQ were…

Examines pre-college students' understanding of the nature of science and tracks those beliefs over the course of an academic year. Studies students' conceptions of the nature of science using a model developed for use in this study. (Contains 24 references.) (Author/YDS)

Uses questioning techniques to teach about caloric consumption and weight gain. Starts with defining questions about calories and includes the stages of measuring calories, analyzing data, and conducting inquiry research. Includes directions for the experiment. (YDS)