The Physics Teacher Education Coalition (PhysTEC) is proud to bring together the first published collection of full-length peer-reviewed research papers on teacher education in physics. We hope that this work will help institutions consider ways to improve their education of physics and physical science teachers, and that research in this field can continue to grow and challenge or support the effectiveness of practices in K-12 teacher education.

TEAM-UP, the National Task Force to Elevate African American representation in Undergraduate Physics & Astronomy was chartered and funded by the American Institute of Physics (AIP) Board of Directors to examine the reasons for the persistent under-representation of African Americans in physics and astronomy in the US as measured by bachelor's degrees in these fields. This book is their detailed report which include recommendations.

The goal of this book is to introduce a reader to a new philosophy of teaching and learning physics - Investigative Science Learning Environment, or ISLE (pronounced as a small island). ISLE is an example of an "intentional" approach to curriculum design and learning activities (MacMillan and Garrison 1988 A Logical Theory of Teaching: Erotetics and Intentionality). Intentionality means that the process through which the learning occurs is as crucial for learning as the final outcome or learned content. In ISLE, the process through which students learn mirrors the practice of physics.

th th Mars, the Red Planet, fourth planet from the Sun, forever linked with 19 and 20 Century fantasy of a bellicose, intelligent Martian civilization. The romance and excitement of that fiction remains today, even as technologically sophisticated - botic orbiters, landers, and rovers seek to unveil Mars’ secrets; but so far, they have yet to find evidence of life. The aura of excitement, though, is justified for another reason: Mars is a very special place. It is the only planetary surface in the Solar System where humans, once free from the bounds of Earth, might hope to establish habitable, self-sufficient colonies. Endowed with an insatiable drive, focused motivation, and a keen sense of - ploration and adventure, humans will undergo the extremes of physical hardship and danger to push the envelope, to do what has not yet been done. Because of their very nature, there is little doubt that humans will in fact conquer Mars. But even earth-bound extremes, such those experienced by the early polar explorers, may seem like a walk in the park compared to future experiences on Mars.

Includes bibliographical references and index.