Editorial - December 2007 - Volume 107 (8)

Research into Practice

Gerald Kulm, Texas A&M University

This journal attempts to provide reports of research that are relevant to a broad spectrum of the science and mathematics education community. Many of the articles are based on classroom practice, both at the university and in PreK-12 classrooms. There are numerous direct and indirect implications from this research for teachers at all levels. The special sections, including In This Issue, which provides easy-to-read summaries of the journal contents, Research In Brief, which summarizes research on important topics, and the Problems Section, which offers mathematics problems and solutions at varying levels of content and complexity, are all intended to appeal to a broad audience. However, making the transition from research findings to classroom practice is never easy. It is important that classroom teachers see the journal as a resource for ideas that could improve their instruction. Although the special sections can do some of that, the Editor and the SSMA Board intend to work harder to provide information and ideas that appeal to PreK-12 teachers. What information or resources could a special section contain that would help teachers to translate science and mathematics education research into practice? What types and formats of information would entice these teachers to become members of the Association or readers of the journal? How could this type of section be unique from the articles or information published in typical teacher journals? Over the coming months, with the leadership of members of the SSMA Board, we intend to develop a section of the journal that appeals to PreK-12 teachers and those who work directly with them. We invite suggestions and ideas for accomplishing this goal.