Discusses two studies that examine the effects of English, and its status as the official language, on Namibian languages. Finds that the numbers of students in African language classes in Namibia have been dropping significantly--in 1995 there were 100 students taking Oshindonga, and in 1999-2000 there was one. (Contains 66 references.) (NB)

Examines the implications for education of a national language policy in South Africa, a region whose constitution recognizes 11 official languages. Argues that African languages must be used in the business of government if they are to remain viable as languages of instruction in schools. (Contains 13 references.) (NB)

Reports that English, Italian, and Arabic were the official languages of Somalia 1960, even though 95% of the population spoke Somali. However, under a totalitarian regime that came to power in the early 1970's, Somalia was able to promote Somali as the official language. Offers guidance for implementation of literacy campaigns. (Contains 18…

Argues that international monetary organizations influence debt-receiving countries in regard to their educational policies. Stresses the importance of retaining a national educational policy as a means of empowerment and liberation for its masses, and for creating stronger ethnic harmony. In particular, Sri Lanka must continue to teach in the…

States that despite the country's relatively small population and the globalization pressures from the international community, the Icelandic language and culture have remained strong. Reports that Iceland's language policy comes from the government's and official institutions' commitment to the people of Iceland, who are determined to preserve…

Describes science in the Venezuelan school system which reflects on the process of development followed to design and validate the Biology Study Programs (BSP) with the emphasis on the relevance of curricular changes proposed in biological science for secondary education. (Contains 19 references.) (ASK)

Discusses the need for environmental education in New Zealand. Describes waterway restoration projects and curriculum development efforts to create activities and ideas that would be incorporated into the regular school curriculum. (Author/ASK)

Presents several scientific activities for elementary school students focusing on electric circuits and conductivity. (ASK)

Introduces the Science Teacher Education Program (STEP) and its components which can be effectively used in developing countries such as Africa or in countries having problems with science achievement. (Contains 12 references.) (ASK)

Explains elementary science education and science curriculum in Lebanon and describes the status of teacher education programs for elementary school teachers. (Contains 16 references.) (YDS)

Introduces a series of lesson plans on energy for junior high school students. (YDS)

Investigates whether the junior high school textbook 1 meets the requirements of a standards textbook that identifies with 12 criteria set by the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN). Includes the criteria of coverage of topics in the syllabus, currency suitability of language, and coherency. (Contains 18 references.) (Author/YDS)

Investigates teacher education methods for teacher development as constructivist science instructors. Explains a typical day in a classroom using the traditional teaching approach and makes recommendations for promoting scientific thinking and problem solving. (YDS)

Examines the effects of a formative assessment with detailed feedback on students' science learning achievement and attitudes regarding formative assessment. Involves (n=133) ninth grade students from Seoul and administers pre- and post-tests for learning achievement and attitude regarding formative assessment. (Contains 16 references.)…

This article summarizes the important ideas and research findings of DISCOVER, an on-going program of research and development concerning the problem solving abilities of children and youth. It identifies five problem types and reviews the DISCOVER assessment model, including research on its reliability and validity and the DISCOVER curriculum…