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 a more 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.