The problem-solving behaviors and genetics concepts employed by experts and novices during interaction with the computer simulation CATLAB, were examined. Thirteen subjects (3 experts and 10 novices) investigated a common hypothesis on a specific genetic trait during the computer activity. Using naturalistic research methods, general patterns of…

Describes software, hardware, and devices that were designed to provide students with an environment to experiment with basic ideas of mechanics, including nonlinear dynamics. Examines the behavior of a Lorenzian water wheel by comparing experimental data with theoretical results obtained from computer-based sensors. (MDH)

Presents a teacher-made instructional material that can be used to help students understand and retain the concepts of magnet and magnetic field. Doughnut-shaped magnets levitate above each other when placed over a post with like poles facing each other. Instructions are provided to make the device. (MDH)

Describes an activity in which students receive individual questions (i.e., What is a sparkler made of and what makes it sparkle?) to answers from their "Aunt Gladys." Students must research the everyday question, discover the answer, and then translate the answer into the common language of the masses. (PR)

Sections in this article discuss (1) Science Literacy Needs; (2) Science Education Goals; (3) National Science Teachers Association; (4) Science, Sequence, and Coordination of Secondary School Science (SS&C); (5) Philosophy of SS&C; (6) Geosciences and SS&C; and (7) Geoscience Organization Contributions. (PR)

Successful small group science teaching techniques at the State University of New York (Plattsburgh) are described, including use of small groups for problem-solving, discussion, and research projects. Majors and nonmajors appeared to profit from this approach, and further use of small groups with diverse populations and large classes is planned.…

Use of in-class writing assignments in a college chemistry course, intended to help students form and express new concepts, was also found to increase students' sense of participation and feeling of control over learning and to help the instructor assess learning and further instructional needs. Some resistance was also discovered. (MSE)

Described is the use of computer software, with and without guiding text, for a simulation that presents processes related to electric charges and electric forces underlying the electric-pendulum phenomenon. Included are methods for integrating this simulation with actual middle-school science class demonstration. (JJK)

Discusses issues involved in the design of science television programs for preadolescents. The program goals and format of a series in French under production in Montreal are described; program qualities are examined at the emotional level and the cognitive level; and topics are suggested for further research. (33 references) (LRW)

Listed are 75 computer software programs which are available for use in teaching physiology at the high school and college level. Included is a brief description of each and an address for obtaining additional information. (CW)

A phenomenological explanation of this effect is provided. Suggestions for the inclusion of pyroelectric effects into a unit on electrostatics are given. (CW)

Described is a project which was designed to take advantage of the use of a videocassette recorder to produce science lessons which could be viewed by children and their parents at home. Examples of several home lessons are provided. Feedback for the program is discussed. (CW)

Detailed are the construction of a demonstration car, apparatus and procedures used in the demonstration, and the analysis of the effects of car braking. The cases of rear-wheel and front-wheel braking are considered. (CW)

Four college educators critically examine an interaction in an introductory college physics classroom (HE 532 013). They explore the role of prior knowledge and new learning in the classroom discussion, misconceptions, the nature and content of the discussion, classroom techniques, use of language, and the process of concept formation. (MSE)

Explains how radiographs (from X-rays) can be used in elementary and middle-school curricula. (PR)