Descriptive information relative to the historical background of the development of a new, uniform secondary school biology curriculum in China is provided. This curriculum, introduced in 1979, is designed to contribute to the achievement of national goals aimed at the modernization of agriculture, industry, defense, and science and technology.…

The attitudes of Jamaican students in grades 11 and 13 to science as well as the relationship between these attitudes and student achievement in science examinations were investigated. Attitudes appeared to play a vital role in achievement where girls were concerned, pointing out the need for role models for science achievement for girls. (PB)

Curriculum planning, even in a developed country, is not without problems. Curriculum planners in developing countries are faced with dilemmas at almost every level of decision making. The revision of the Malaysian physics curriculum is detailed in this article. (PB)

This study designed to use Piagetian logical operations and open-ended, clinical interviews to collect data amenable to a developmental analysis of children's levels of understanding of specific science topics: gravity, energy, and magnetism. Results indicated a correspondence between a child's overall cognitive development and the specific…

Discusses the use of the clinical interview in assessing cognitive structure and in investigating conceptual change. They caution much more work is needed to increase the applicability and validity of the clinical interview method and point out that there is a lack of systematization in the analysis of interview transcripts. (Author/PB)

A general model of conceptual change which is largely derived from current philosophy of science, but which can illuminate learning as well, is described. Some features of this model are illustrated by interviews with students studying special relativity in physics. Finally, some pedagogical implications are presented. (Author/PB)

The author examines Novak's position that science and mathematics educators should discard Piaget's theory of intellectual development in favor of Ausubel's theory of meaningful learning as a guide for teaching practice and research. (PB)

The author presents an analysis of alternative views about why students should learn science, shares some anecdotal impressions about the heuristic potential of the concept "curriculum emphases" in a practical setting, and examines some problems related to teaching science to early adolescents. (Author/PB)

The authors present their analysis of trends discernable in doctoral programs in science education from 1966-1980 in 22 institutions with respect to enrollments, faculty, program features, and placement of graduates. (Authors/PB)

Considered is the question: Is it desirable to have educational programs that identify/teach specific methodological rules which have been, or might be, used by professional scientists? It's best to have educational programs which don't teach students/teachers specific methodological rules. Schools should provide opportunity to explore and test…

An emeritus professor of science education presents his perceptions of critical issues in science education. (PB)

Results of a national survey to determine state certification requirements for elementary school teaching were analyzed to determine the amount of science content required. Very few states appear to be mandating sufficient science training to ensure that elementary school teachers are prepared to teach science. (PB)

Defines six modes of simulation that have been used in science teaching and learning. Discusses the implications of using simulations in the science classroom. (CS)

Presents several examples of the interface of science teaching and politics. Supports the notion of a double function in teaching biology: (1) to educate a young person for critical observation, independent judgment, and responsible action; and (2) to prepare him for the future. (CS)

Reviews selected research studies on testing in science education to demonstrate that, although many tests do exist in science education, there are areas needing further development. (CS)