Described is the relative complexity of commonly used diagrams in science instruction. Student interpretations of diagrams, implications for science instruction and the prevention of science misconceptions is discussed. (CW)

Described are the results of interviews of students regarding the concepts of "forced" and "natural" motion. Aristolean-like beliefs have been found to persist in students even though these views differ from orthodox physics views. (KR)

Investigated are the alternative conceptions of the concept "animal" held by African youngsters. Three forms of thinking among the pupils are identified. An attempt is made to explain the possible origin of anthropocentric thinking among pupils. Urban and rural groups are compared. (CW)

Discussed are the ways that misconceptions about chemistry are acquired by presecondary children. Several recommendations for teaching chemistry to children are presented including the use of variety, hands-on experiences, critical thinking skills, and appropriate timing of concepts. (CW)

Introduces one professor's endeavor, "Insect Fear Film Festival," to educate the public about entomology. Discusses some related topics and misconceptions. (YP)

Notes that energy is a difficult concept to learn and provides problems for many students. Stresses that if the science education community were to develop a standard nomenclature of energy-related terms, it would be possible to eliminate some of the difficulties without reducing depth of treatment. (Author/MVL)

Describes ways a teacher can depict science as a form of thinking that leads to a more consistent, coherent, and comprehensive picture of nature. Indicates that this approach to science can foster in students a better understanding of why scientific truth changes. (RT)

Fifty-six school psychologists reviewed a hypothetical case study designed to investigate their interpretations of different norm-referenced test scores. Subjects were more likely to recommend special education programs for normal students when percentile scores were used. School psychologists need to become more familiar with the properties of…

Investigates the remediation of misconceptions through application of Gagne's hierarchical learning theory. Uses stoichiometry, food levels, and conservation of mechanical energy as the target concepts. Reports that there was no treatment effect in analysis of covariance using pretest scores as a covariant. (YP)

Describes a diagnostic evaluation to measure the idea of the living cell as the basic unit of life. Describes the classification of student knowledge as common knowledge, wide-spread lack of knowledge, inadequate alternatives, and contradictions. (YP)

Examines childrens' (age 8-14) conceptions of shadow formation through interviews. Identifies "the trigger model" of shadows and finds that there are multiple roles that children attribute to light. (YP)

Presents the results of three studies examining children's conception of the mind itself as an independent, active entity. Findings revealed a developing ability in children to interpret and produce statements personifying the mind and provided considerable evidence of children's movement toward a conception of the mind as an active agent…

Although traditional age college students have been the focus of HIV/AIDS education programs, considerably less attention has been given to reentry college students. The results of this study indicated reentry students have a good understanding of how HIV is transmitted but less knowledge regarding populations that are at risk. (BF)

Recent research documents students' misconceptions about key math and science ideas, parochial views of history, and tendency to reduce complex literary works to stereotypes. To improve understanding, learners should focus on activities asking them to generalize, find new examples, and apply principles thoughtfully. Teachers should pursue…

This article aims to present the results obtained from science teachers about their attitudes toward students' conceptions and the use of teaching strategies based on these conceptions. The results may contribute to the planning of inservice courses. (Author)