There is a need for research that depicts better-differentiated social contexts for science education in their full complexity. Social scientists have developed a promising model for research in context. Three critical conceptual and methodological strands of the model are discussed, along with their implications for science education research.…

Traces the practice of relating academic science with the life world of the student to the 1600s. Focuses on identifying elements of a curriculum framework and cognitive strategies that seek to prepare students to be productive citizens in the world. Contains 37 references. (DDR)

Describes a physics-curriculum project that utilizes hypermedia and an historical, conceptual approach. Argues that textbooks are often boring and are inadequate tools for student learning. Contains 32 references. (DDR)

Details an eight-year project designed to reform a physics curriculum using a philosophical, historical perspective and inservice teacher training. Includes information on the development and implementation of the project as well as details about the teacher's guide. (DDR)

Describes the progress made in Northern Ireland toward the introduction of GCSE science curricula in postprimary schools. Documents the move from separate courses in chemistry, physics, and biology to integrated science courses. (DDR)

Speculates about the experiences that contribute to the overall development and preparation of a scientist and whether educators can recreate this process to support the development of all students. (DDR)

A study involving 60 fifth-grade classrooms assessed student growth on integrated science process skills after being taught a 20-36 hour science unit based on the Integrated Curriculum Model developed for gifted learners. Results indicate small, but significant, gains for students in skills when compared to students not using the unit. (CR)

Reports the results of an international survey that uncovered barriers to women in technology education and strategies to overcome those barriers. Offers some suggestions for changes in the curriculum and facility to support the interest of females. (DDR)

Reports on a study that uses psychometric modeling to rank the appeal of a variety of children's astronomical ideas on a single uniform scale. Findings support the view that alternative conceptions may be markers of progress toward understanding. Contains 82 references. (DDR)

Describes a study of Indian and Fijian pre-service primary teachers that reveals how many hold alternative conceptions of fundamental scientific concepts. Focuses on conservation of matter. (DDR)

Describes a course for talented high school students that focuses on DNA science and technology. Employs Cold Spring Harbor's DNA Science laboratory manual. Engages students in performing sickle-cell anemia and thalassemia tests in rabbits. (DDR)

Proposes four formulations of the commonplaces of science based on distinct views of the nature of science, and explores the consequences of each. Argues that although each formulation has strengths, some commonplaces prove more comprehensive than others in capturing the essence of science for the purposes of developing curriculum, educating…

Discusses some new evidence for evolution that might be useful in persuading students who question the scientific basis for evolution. Draws on findings from the fields of molecular biology and genetics. (DDR)

Details the active-learning approach to teaching cellular respiration in an introductory, one-semester course for nonmajors. Focuses on a laboratory exercise designed to answer the question of what happens to food when eaten. Contains 19 references. (DDR)

Cites reasons for concern about the standard measures of program quality in graduate study. Focuses on a report from the National Research Council (NRC) and proposes some alternative evaluation standards. (DDR)