Discusses what is scientific theory and religious belief, who decides this, and how these issues affect views on whether creationism and evolution are scientific and should be taught in schools. Argues that only evolution qualifies as scientific theory (and should be taught) and that students should distinguish between religious/scientific…

Science and social science teachers (N=198) were surveyed to determine interest in interdisciplinary instruction, perception of current interdisciplinary approaches, and preferred forms for learning more about interdisciplinary instruction. Results and implications are discussed with listings of process skills identified as important and…

Discusses the interdisciplinary/multidisciplinary nature of the BSCS Human Sciences Program and problems associated with the development, dissemination, and use of such curricula. Poses a series of questions related to these problems and discusses influences of single-issues pressure groups on science teaching. (JN)

Computer software should be evaluated by teachers, students, or administrators before and after (ongoing) purchase. Reliable evaluations are performed in the educational context in which students will be using the computer. Such evaluations are performed because poor programs may negatively affect teacher and/or student attitudes toward computers…

Briefly reviews research studies focusing on sex differences in the human brain. One study suggests that the presence of androgens either during fetal development or at puberty (rather than their continued presence) determines spatial ability. Cautions against accepting this hypothesis of hormonal influence of spatial ability are discussed.…

Describes a demonstration and role-playing activity focusing on differences between living/dead, definitions of living/dead, and situations in which active euthanasia could be morally right. (Author/JN)

Concepts to be developed, objectives, and student instructions are provided for an activity useful as an introduction to or review of Mendelian genetics and sex determination. Universal codes (read by optical scanners at supermarket checkout stands) from soup can labels are used as chromosome maps during the activity. (JN)

Reports that 84 percent of the secondary school biology texts surveyed (N=38) lack material dealing with the aging process. Argues that this is a serious omission and suggests several ways to incorporate the topic of aging into texts and classroom work. (DC)

Points out the value of using educational games as an instructional strategy and discusses different game formats using science examples. Identifies general characteristics of simulation games and presents as an example "Little Lake," a role playing game for grades 7-12 on population growth. (DC)

Outlines an interdisciplinary workshop in bioethics for secondary teachers taught by a team consisting of a scientist, a philosopher, and a literary critic. Discusses definitions, topics, reading selections, problems, and value. (DC)

Compares two programs which enable high school students to take college courses for credit: Advanced Placement (AP) Program and Syracuse University Project Advance Program. Discusses instructional methods, college credit, teacher involvement, student benefits, and problems, to show advantages of the latter program. (DC)

Reports the results of a study which investigated the relationship between learning style characteristics and left/right hemispheric preference of high school biology students (N=353). Concludes that a statistical significance exists indicating that different settings and instructional approaches are necessary to better promote learning. (DC)

Addresses the issue of bias in the natural science classroom as it relates to : (1) the natural sciences view of reality; (2) societal context; (3) scientists and teachers; and (4) scientific theories such as evolution. (DC)

Two laboratory procedures in experimental chemotaxonomy are outlined for determining the presence of betalains in genera representing different plant families. A list of materials and equipment needed is provided. (DC)

Provides a general overview of humor and its use in educational settings and makes specific suggestions to educators who want to include or increase its use in their classroom. Discusses characteristics, benefits, categories, student perceptions, stages of humor, sources and forms of humor, and pacing. (DC)