This paper discusses the research on three questions to improve physics instruction: (1) What is involved in understanding and using physics? (2) What do students bring to physics classes? and (3) How do students respond to physics instruction? At the heart of physics education research is a shift in emphasis on: "What are the students learning…

This study investigates the effectiveness of the U.S. Forest Service's "Wilderness and Land Ethic" curriculum. Students and teachers from three states--Colorado, Minnesota, and Montana--participated in the study. Comparisons were made between grade level, state, and gender to determine any differences. Results indicate that school-based wilderness…

This book aims to raise questions by addressing the ways that teaching can and should be reflective practice. Throughout the book the question, "How can teachers continue to evolve and rethink their teaching methods?" is addressed. Tracking six prospective biology teachers from their university training through their first years in the classroom,…

This digest provides an introduction to action research in science education and includes examples of how action research has been used to improve teaching and learning, as well as suggested resources for those seeking to incorporate action research into their own teaching or research. Action research is defined and is examined in science…

This collection of essays by various authors draws on resources from a series of "EETAP Resource Library Info Sheets" developed for the Environmental Education and Training Partnership (EETAP) by the Ohio State University (OSU) Extension and the OSU School of Natural Resources. Forty Info Sheets are categorized using six major themes intended to…

Studies indicate that there are attitudinal problems toward chemistry that keep students from achieving relevant objectives; thus, positive attitudes need to be developed by having a learning environment that fosters a warm and relaxed atmosphere in which students feel accepted and are willing to take risks in achieving complex objectives.…

This article presents numerous limitations in present state guidelines in regards to elementary science education and suggests to satisfy the guidelines' spirit without being stalled by their logic. (Editors/JA)

Students receive their education in science from four initial sources: the scientific community, the observers of science, direct contact with natural phenomena, and non-science influences. It is possible that in the non-science influences which have been given only incidental consideration lie some of the major inhibitions of curriculum…

Data compiled by Dr. Izaak Wirszup have been used to support claims that the quality of mathematics and science education in the United States is declining. Empirical questions about some of his conclusions indicate that these claims may not be supportable. (NJ)

Argues that neither creationism nor evolution is rigorously testable and that discussants should ask whether creationism is a workable scientific enterprise. Concludes that creationism does not meet the standards of a scientific enterprise and its inclusion in the public school curriculum would threaten the integrity of scientific judgment and…

The Animal Awareness club is designed to make humane education an integral part of the classroom. Reported is the format, evaluation, and follow-up materials for an animal awareness club. (Author/DS)

The content and scope of the USSR's science and mathematics curricula place them far ahead of every other nation. (Author/MLF)

American educators should begin to train students in mathematics and science for the technological world. (Author/MLF)

Describes various aspects of high school physics in modern China, including classroom instruction, interdistrict competitions, extracurricular studies, content of the curriculum, and test procedures. (CS)