“Inquiry-centered” science allows students to conceptualize a question and then seek a possible explanation that responds to that question. “Inquiry-centered” science is most often “hands-on” science. Research indicates that science knowledge is best acquired by children (and adults) in a hands-on experimental environment where they can make their own discoveries. The steps of this learning cycle are:

• Focus – Explore and clarify the ideas that children already have about the topic.
• Explore – Have children engage in hands-on explorations of the objects, organisms, and science phenomena to be investigated.
• Reflect – Encourage children to discuss their observations and reconcile their ideas.
• Apply – Help children discuss and apply their new ideas in new situations.

Yes, the NSRC has developed two major curricula--one for elementary schools, entitled Science and Technology Concepts for Children (STC), and one for middle schools, entitled Science and Technology Concepts for Middle Schools (STC/MS).

More information on NSRC curriculum.

There is an emerging body of data from the field to provide evidence that the impact of the NSRC science education reform model in K-8 science education is increasing student achievement in science for all students.

For more information go to Impact of Our Work.

The curricula and professional development endorsed and used by the NSRC are based on the latest research on how people learn. Scientists and educators, including experienced teachers, acted as consultants to teacher-developers, who researched, trial taught, and wrote the STC and STC/MS units. The final editions of the units reflect the incorporation of teacher and student field-test feedback and guidance from leading scientists and science educators who serve on the STC or STC/MS Advisory Panel.

Yes, both curricula fully address the NSES for their respective grade levels.

For more information about the National Science Education Standards go to http://www.nap.edu/readingroom/books/intronses/.

The NSRC works with other countries to adapt its curricula to their school systems. Currently, the NSRC curricula are available in Spanish and Swedish. Go to Curriculum Translations for further information.

Our curricula are being used in over 33 states, as well as in Chile, Mexico, and Sweden.

Carolina Biological Supply Company is the exclusive publisher of STC and STC/MS. Visit their website at www.carolina.com, or contact them at:

Carolina Biological Supply Company
2700 york Road
Burlington, NC 27215
(800) 227-1150

Yes, the NSRC offers internships for high school and college students. More information and application form.