Author Description

This book, designed for teachers and administrators of grades K to 5, explains the philosophy and practical applications of science inquiry in the classroom. Each chapter is an essay written by one ofa group of experts who have experienced and experimented with science inquiry learning. The authors suggest that the readers can use the book by reading it straight through, selecting specific articles of interest, or focusing on its lists and guides. The emphasis is on the complex challenges of science education reform, illustrated through the experiences of others and with examples drawn from exemplary programs around the nation. The book was produced by the National Science Foundation's Division of Elementary, Secondary and Informal Education (ESIE) in conjunction with the division of Research, Evaluation and Communication (REC) and the Center for Urban Science Education Reform (CUSER). Topics covered include the history and philosophy of inquiry in science, the challenges of teaching inquiry science, and issues related to the assessment of learning in the inquiry classroom. The book ends by exploring the importance of assessing our own state of knowledge. Samples of student work and black and white photographs are found throughout the book.