Recent studies have shown that classroom visits by scientists can change and improve students' perceptions of scientists and what they do. However, having scientists visit the classroom is not always a practical option for every classroom. A more readily available and less time-consuming strategy is to introduce "Science as a Human Endeavor"…

Have you ever tucked away a piece of fruit for later and returned to find it past its prime? Or found some leftovers that had outlived their welcome in the refrigerator? Whether it's fresh or processed, all food eventually spoils. Methods such as freezing, canning, and the use of preservatives lengthen the lifespan of foods, and we--and the modern…

Through Bucket Buddies--a collaborative online project developed and administered by The Center for Improved Engineering Science and Education (CIESE) at Stevens Institute of Technology, in Hoboken, New Jersey--elementary students from more than 150 schools in 33 states and 6 countries have taken samples from local ponds and teamed up to answer…

Most people think that engineering and mathematics go hand in hand. To many, being an engineer means manipulating equations and calculating measurements to design and build structures of all kinds. And they are right. Engineering does involve a great deal of mathematics. But, building structures to withstand certain environmental conditions or…

Presents an interview protocol used to identify and evaluate students' conceptions of plants which is an invitation to participate in the third national study exploring elementary students' science conceptions. (YDS)

Investigates elementary school preservice teachers' attitudes and backgrounds in science with a Likert scale instrument. Reports that preservice teachers believe in the importance of science in elementary education and points out gender trends in confidence in teaching. (YDS)

Investigates teachers' impressions of stereotypes of scientists and science. Uses the Draw a Scientist Test (DAST) for nonverbal assessment and makes recommendations for strategies to build more realistic and positive images. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Investigates the attitudes and expectations of parents of sixth-grade students concerning science education in the elementary school. Discusses parents' responses with regard to the role of science education, time allotted for science, comparisons with other subjects, helping children with science homework, important topics, and views of science.…

Describes results from a survey of elementary school students' perceptions of scientists, school science, and the application of science in daily life. Students drew scientists with various stereotypic features such as lab coats, and most were depicted as white males. Most students pictured themselves studying science by doing an activity.…

Describes a study in which kindergarten and first-grade students discussed the subject of shadows. Two students became teacher/leaders, and the rest asked questions for clarification or gave input. The classroom teacher modeled questioning and communication skills all year. The goal was to empower students to have a role in their own education.…

Investigates what questions elementary students would ask when presented with various situations relating to the natural environment. Findings reveal the extraordinary range of questions that elementary students have concerning the solar system and space. (JRH)

Investigates students' ideas about gravity beyond the earth's surface. Presents a lesson plan designed to help students understand that gravity can act beyond Earth's atmosphere. Also helps students gain a more adequate intuitive understanding of how natural and artificial satellites stay in orbit. Reports that this strategy changed some students'…

Reports on a nationwide survey of elementary teachers about factors relating to the acquisition of science equipment and materials, including the amount of personal funds spent to enhance their science instruction. Reports that the average amount spent per teacher totaled $199 with the maximum amount being $2000 and a sizable group not spending…

Describes a study in which elementary school children received different types of instruction about terminology used in explaining the water cycle. Results indicated that the group of students receiving hands-on instruction demonstrated a better understanding of the terms than did the other groups involved in the study. (TW)

Reports on the progress of the "Science Through Discovery" program of the Richardson (Texas) Independent School District. Results of a study into the program indicate that students have improved their attitudes about science, as well as their decision-making skills regarding technological issues. (TW)