Presents findings from a systematic analysis of elementary-school science textbooks in terms of content domain, method of information presentation, types of questions, and considerateness. Found substantial differences between programs and suggests five further research questions. (YP)

Reports the history, instruction, teacher training, and evaluation of a computer-programing course in China. Suggests some questions and problems relating to the course. (YP)

Describes an example of the main steps in restructuring a curriculum and thinking developed by a systems approach. Provides several diagrams illustrating the curriculum structure. (Author/YP)

Offers recommendations for curriculum renewal, indicating the major ways each of the four major disciplines (secondary English, social studies, mathematics, and science) can improve by the year 2000, and presenting an incremental strategy for achieving such gains. (SR)

Compares the success of two approaches to biology courses for underprepared community college students, one involving a hands-on approach emphasizing practice in basic scientific skills and the other involving a remediation-based approach focusing on basic vocabulary, reading, library, and math skills. Suggests that the hands-on approach provided…

Presents a practical model for planning and implementing a field trip as an integral part of the science curriculum. Reviews the literature related to the role of field trips in the learning process; describes the model; and provides an example implementing the learning cycle method. (Contains 17 references.) (MDH)

Argues that the alliance between the government and the scientific establishment has resulted in reforms that do not help future citizens in understanding the complexities of the social relations of science and technology. Presents evidence of a return to a conception of scientific literacy in which the central mythology of value-free science is…

Presents the National Science Education Standards as an exceptionally well researched tool intended to assist teachers in curriculum development. Describes an activity that meets the standards and encourages students to work together. (JRH)

Describes the state of physics education in China as determined by visits to eight universities, one middle school, and one kindergarten noted for their reputations for innovative instruction. (MDH)

Describes the use of the observational checklist as an alternative assessment method. Suggests scoring rubrics should be developed to allow students and teachers to understand what standards are expected. Example scoring rubrics for drawing conclusions, creating motion, and group/cooperation skills are presented. (PR)

Describes origin of amicus curiae brief submitted in response to the Louisiana Balanced Treatment Act for creation science and evolution science that had been struck down in the Federal Court of Louisiana in 1985 and was being appealed to the Supreme Court. Discusses the historical significance for the collective defining and defending of science…

This report synthesizes critical issues and questions associated with science curriculum reform for the purpose of establishing a research agenda. Section headings describing needed research are as follows: Science, Technology, and Cultural Needs; Schooling Needs; Science Education Needs; and Research in Science Education Needs. Contrasts and…

This article covers the following: (1) contrasts several perspectives on science education reform by examining recommendations for introductory science courses; (2) identifies research finding that can guide reform; (3) discusses the impact of research on national precollege curriculum reform; and (4) offers a set of recommendations to guide…

Suggests that a major reappraisal of school science education in England and Wales is urgent and relevant to other nations' science education programs as well. Suggests that science instruction should be centered in technologies that will directly affect students' lives. Argues that science imparts values in spite of a reputation for neutrality.…

Described is a course designed to demonstrate the interactions of science, technology, and society and present effective ways to integrate science/technology/societal issues into the curriculum. Included are the course development, goals, content, selection criteria, project impact, course evaluation, and conclusion. (KR)