Analyzes some of the issues involved in the adaptation of science curricula. Identifies situation variables that affect "adaptedness," classifies these variables, and outlines the type of curriculum modification implied. Summarizes using a flow-chart indicating the sequence of questions preceding curriculum selection decisions. (GS)

Updates the results of a six-year experimental course in physics whose goal was to translate the physicist's approach to science into an approach to the teaching of physics. Provides a course description and rationale and outlines the instructional procedures used. (GS)

Makes a recommendation for more direct teaching of the basic principles of mechanics. Contends that students currently learn mechanics in terms of standard examples. This causes difficulty when the student is confronted with a problem that can be solved from basic principles, but which does not fit a standard category. (GS)

Presents points relevant to learning skills in the areas of observation and perception. Indicates that a knowledge of the categories into which stimuli may be sorted may provide a framework for perception. The interpretation of perception is based on preciously learned knowledge, intellectual skills and cognitive strategies, and mental set. (GS)

Describes the science learning environments of 14-year-old students in 14 different countries. Presents between-country and within-country correlations between learning environment dimensions (exploratory and authoritarian) and science achievement and analyzes the results and implications. (GS)

Suggests that problem-solving ability of science students is associated with students' ability to organize the information provided in a problem into memorizable patterns. This hypothesis, derived from research studies, is exemplified by reference to chemical problems and its educational implications. (Author/GS)

Describes results of a study which examined the interests of secondary students in certain aspects of physics and technology. Presents results on the mean number of student choices of theoretical and practical topics and student preferences for type of physics lesson. Examines student residence and spare-time interests as variables. (GS)

Outlines the proceedings of the Cognitive-Development Research Seminar at the University of Leeds in September, 1979. Indicates that the area of greatest interest was the differences between student conceptions and scientific norms times alternative frameworks. Outlines other studies that were presented and offers opinions on the contributions of…

Presents information about the organization and the participants at the Symposium on World Trends in Science Education held in Halifax, Canada in August of 1979. Presents a brief description of the papers presented and lists the views that the discussion participants considered to be problem areas. (GS)

Discusses oscillations and waves as a new topic for primary and secondary science curricula because of the many developments in the fields of optics and electronics. Outlines current problems in physics instruction under the headings of social aspects, disadvantaged pupils, and developing countries. (GS)

Presents information about the topics and discussion sessions of the Kiel Conference organized by the Commission for Biological Education (CBE) of the International Union of Biological Sciences (IUBS). Outlines the status of biological education for community development in different parts of the world and summarizes project proposals accepted by…

Provides background information and research findings on right and left brain hemisphere research. The cerebral hemisphere, research on split-brain subjects, research with normal subjects, and sex differences are addressed. Indicates that each hemisphere functions differently (left--verbal and analytical; right--spatial and perceptual) but both…

Outlines a science-industrial arts survey course which presents basic concepts of chemistry as applied to practical experiences. Course topics include: paints; solvents; finishes; metallurgy of iron; precious metals; calorimetry; fossil fuels; batteries; adhesives; cement; and others. The short units were designed for students with limited…

Presents 10 activities in biology, chemistry, physical science, and general science. Activities focus on: alfalfa sprouts; soap test; density; skating on cold ice; Kirlian photography; titration analysis (with program listing); radioactive decay; and others. Each activity includes suggested grade level(s) and procedures. (DH)

Outlines the developments of a conception of the interaction between science, technology, and society in science education. Classifies the varieties of curriculum materials using an epistemological typology. (Author/YP)