Advocating for advanced learning or talent development in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is both timely and very important. It is very important to speak out on behalf of talent development as the future of society depends on providing opportunities for developing talent to optimum levels. Some basic questions can set an…

Teaching and learning in the information age can be stressful. It seems only yesterday teachers were trying to imagine what the information age would be like. Now their brains are bombarded by billions of words every time they perform a "Google Search." There is a calm to the chaos when teachers focus on the foundation of their profession. Their…

Plasticizers are chemical additives that enhance plastic flexibility. They are ubiquitous environmental contaminants and are commonly found in river and lake waters (Fromme et al 2002). The present study aimed to investigate the effects of a water-soluble plasticizer, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) on developing Medaka ("Oryzias latipes") embryos. Three…

The challenge for those who are working with talented STEM students is to engage them with like-minded science leaders through direct contact and by using meaningful web resources. The author discovered new web resources by attending a workshop and by reading an alumni magazine. She introduced both web resources to her senior classes and…

The purpose of this project was to construct and test an off-grid photovoltaic (PV) system in which the power from a solar array could be stored in a rechargeable battery and a flywheel motor generator assembly. The mechanical flywheel energy storage system would in turn effectively power a 12-volt DC appliance. The voltage and current of…

The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), located in Aurora Illinois, is a public, three-year residential high school for students who are academically talented in mathematics and/or science. The mission statement of IMSA is to "ignite and nurture creative, ethical, scientific minds that advance the human condition." This corresponds…

Most mathematical functions can be represented in numerous ways. The main representations typically addressed in school, often referred to as "the big three," are graphical, algebraic, and numerical representations, but there are others as well (e.g., diagrams, words, simulations). These different types of representations "often illuminate…

Global survival hinges on an appreciation that the solutions to problems reside within the collective strength of diversity. However, achieving inclusion is often relegated to periodic infusions of multiculturalism into the mainstream of organizational culture. And "diversity" is quickly becoming the latest buzzword for an idea that, though…

The author was born and raised in rural, northern Mississippi. He went to a local school, the North Pontotoc Attendance Center, from first grade on. The author was always interested in math and science, but, then, he was interested in most all subjects. The expected path that his friends and siblings had followed was clear: attend a junior college…

Mathematical knowledge can be categorized in different ways. One commonly used way is to distinguish between procedural mathematical knowledge and conceptual mathematical knowledge. Procedural knowledge of mathematics refers to formal language, symbols, algorithms, and rules. Conceptual knowledge is essential for meaningful understanding of…

There is much research that documents what many teachers know, that students struggle with many concepts in probability and statistics. This article presents two sample activities the authors use to help preservice teachers develop ideas about how they can use technology to promote their students' ability to understand mathematics and connect…

As a veteran teacher at a NCSSSMST (National Consortium for Specialized Secondary Schools of Mathematics, Science and Technology) high school, the author takes pride in allowing her students to stretch their minds. But as a teacher of gifted juniors and seniors, it has always been a challenge to keep her students up to date with key events in…

Discusses positive effects of digital photography on the teaching of mathematics and cost-effectiveness for schools. Discusses appropriate digital camera resolution, storage, printers, and handheld options for classroom use. (KHR)

Emphasizes that distance learning is one of the most promising uses of technology for reaching and serving the needs of students located in remote sites. Suggests that special efforts must be made in planning the lesson and in the choice of technology used to deliver it. Explains the points to which attention should be given while distance…

Discusses the SAGE project, a Biology II project in which students analyze a specific disease by utilizing Internet resources. Poses seven problems for students and includes solutions. (ASK)