Annotation

Yager, R. E., Mackinnu, & Blunk, S. M. (1992). Science/Technology/Society as reform of sciences in the elementary student. Journal of Elementary Science Education, 4 (1), 1-13.

This is a description of a study comparing traditional instruction with a 'constructivist' reform instuctional program using computers as an integral component. The results of this study showed no benefit in performance on standard academic tests. However, the reform program significantly improved attention levels, process skills, and confidence in both teachers and students. This illustrates the interaction effects of teaching and testing formats on outcomes. Standard academic tests are probably not appropriate measures of success in a reform program.