This book describes the lives and achievements of 27 disabled scientists and students of science who are overcoming obstacles and are carrying on careers and studies in their chosen field of science or engineering, graphically showing that individuals with physical disabilities can succeed in scientific and technical work. The book presents a…

Widespread use of interpretive research in studies of teaching and learning has highlighted a number of crucial ethical and legal issues. Although these issues have always been a concern for researchers, use of small samples and detailed analyses of teaching and learning have brought previously hidden aspects of teaching and learning into the…

Publishers of elementary science teachers manuals present the components of each lesson plan in a variety of ways or modes. It was believed that teachers might prefer the modes used in presenting some lesson plan components more than others. A group of elementary teachers was given excerpts of teachers manuals in which publishers had presented…

Most people tend to take coastal areas for granted, but, if steps are not taken now to improve the quality of the water from the mountains to the coast, it may someday be unfit for human use. Following a statement of the reasons for such concern are 13 chapters discussing various aspects of water conservation. Chapter titles include: (1) "Erosion…

This guide consists of examples and blank worksheets to aid Oklahoma schools in assessing their science curriculum on a continuing basis. Worksheets focus on: (1) philosophy and rationale of science curricula; (2) expected student outcomes; (3) educational programs (topics covered and concepts emphasized); (4) student skills; (5) program…

Background information, lists of materials needed, and procedures are provided for 12 electrochemistry experiments. The experiments involve investigating: (1) a simple electrical circuit; (2) how a doorbell works; (3) how a two-way switch works; (4) conductors and insulators; (5) controlling current with a pencil; (6) what an electrolyte is; (7)…

Several categories of misconceptions which appear to be emerging across studies are discussed. They include: mis-perceptions; stunted conceptions; mis-translations; confused conceptions; lost conceptions; and true misconceptions. True misconceptions are metaphors and analogies which represent truly complete systems of explanation but are…

Examples of explanations students give during science lessons are used to demonstrate that there are a number of very different modes of explaining. In addition, it is suggested that the peculiarly scientific method of explanation is fraught with difficulties, some of which current learning theories may just be able to describe. Areas discussed…

Suggests that science instruction should allow students to see science not only as a technical specialty of geniuses but also as a legitimate feature of every man's daily concerns and a tool for the development of moral and social values. (Author/JR)

Describes the use of the "Plant Wheel" by the University of California Botanical Garden as a means of providing elementary school children with a structured activity as they explore the Garden at their own pace. This activity accommodates the children's curiosity, energy, and attention span. (JR)

Outlines a model which describes the processes that a learner goes through in attempting to solve problems, and suggests ways to assist students in reaching a solution when they are confronted by an apparent impasse. (JR)

Describes a unit of study appropriate for early childhood education in which the children investigate plant communities. Specific learning goals and activities are outlined. (JR)

Describes the science program that has been developed in Sierra Leone elementary schools over the past eight years. (JR)

Emphasizes the point of view that the teaching of science should not be postponed until children are mature enough to deal with abstract scientific concepts but that a wide variety of concrete experience facilitates the development of a scientific way of thinking. (PEB)

Presented is an overview of the content of some of the science courses taught in the schools of Victoria, Australia, in order to emphasize the relationships between these courses and the structure of knowledge. (PEB)