The National Science Education Standards state that ―science teaching must involve students in
inquiry-oriented investigations in which they interact with their teachers and
peers…Emphasizing active science learning means shifting
emphasis away from teachers
presenting information and covering science topics‖ (National Research Council, 1996, p. 20).
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (2000) also encouraged teachers to strive for amore student-centered math classroom that deemphasizes rote memorization of isolated skills
and facts and emphasizes problem solving and communication to help students ―construct‖
mathematical knowledge.