Abstracts of most of the papers, symposia, and poster sessions presented at the 59th conference of the National Association for Research in Science Teaching (NARST) are provided. Subject areas addressed include: instructional practices in secondary school science; research on computers in science learning; teacher's professional knowledge and…

Since the early sixties, general/introductory biology courses have evolved as a consequence of a multitude of forces which have been changing the face of our society. These forces are, in turn, consequences of a much greater phenomenon, the Scientific Revolution. Shortages of scientific personnel and the national fervor generated by the space…

This publication provides supplemental information which can be used by the teacher to accompany each unit in the Regents Biology Syllabus. Each unit of the supplement addresses topics and understandings in the corresponding unit of the syllabus. These units are: (1) unity and diversity among living things; (2) maintenance in living things; (3)…

This document consists of: (1) an introduction; (2) the first and last chapters of Harold Dunkel's manuscript titled "Writ in Water: The Epitaph of Educational Innovation"; (3) an invited address (presented at a session sponsored by an American Educational Research Association Special Interest Group on the Creation and Utilization of Curriculum…

Empirical findings concerning the consequences of curriculum tracking are presented. The relationship of curriculum tracking to changes in cognitive performance over a 2-year period among 3932 high school students is examined, using multiple regression analysis. The results show that curriculum placement is related to courses taken, and through…

Examines the major characteristics of the proposed second generation of science curricula for secondary schools, outlines the qualities, competencies, and teaching strategies of the "curriculum-proof" teacher, and makes suggestions for future pre-service and in-service teacher training programs. (JR)

Describes the development, philosophy, and science offerings of the junior high and middle schools of the United States, and examines new directions emerging for science education in these schools during the next decade. (JR)

This instructional unit contains a set of nine lessons on energy for grade one. Each lesson contains complete teacher and student materials. Reading skills and language experiences are reinforced in each activity. The lessons cover such topics as energy from food, energy from the sun, fossil fuels, the wind, moving water, and energy conservation.…

The effectiveness of video-autotutorial instruction in a large enrollment course was contrasted to more traditional instructional approaches. Subjects were 555 students enrolled in introductory genetics courses at three University of California campuses. The experimental approach used 25-minute videotape modules, a detailed syllabus, and a…

Presented is a description of the preservice teacher education program for science teachers of grades 5-13 in the Federal Republic of Germany. Information reported is focused on the science content portion of the preservice program rather than on the education courses and field experiences. (PB)

This issue of Investigations in Science Education contains articles about attitude research in science education. It contains the critiques of nine articles about attitude research as well as three responses to critiques. One response relates to a critique published in an earlier issue while the other two responses are paired with the critiques…

Data from the pilot use of a mathematical applications in science course for secondary-school pupils are presented. The course was offered in a variety of ways. Among these were: 1) as a one-semester elective course to sophomores who were planning to study chemistry; 2) as part of a physical science course for low achievers; 3) as part of a…

Selected materials needed to teach an astronomy unit as well as suggested procedures, activities, ideas, and astronomy fact sheets published by the Manitoba Planetarium are provided. Subjects of the fact sheets include: publications and classroom picture sets available from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and facts and statistics…

Selected materials needed to teach an astronomy unit as well as suggested procedures, activities, ideas, and astronomy fact sheets published by the Manitoba Planetarium are provided. Subjects of the fact sheets include: publications and classroom picture sets available from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and facts and statistics…