Un-packaging Manuscript Preparation and Review Guidelines for Curriculum and Instruction and Research Papers

INTRODUCTIONIn November 2015 the Journal of Geoscience Education Editorial Board met to review and discussed the criteria for curriculum and instruction (CI teaching approaches; professional development; or outreach to schools or the general public. We welcome innovations targeted at any grade level that are used in either formal or informal settings. All C&I papers must be grounded in appropriate educational literature, and must provide evidence of how the proposed innovation meets its learning goals. The following criteria should be met:1. Title: The title sets the stage for the paper. It informs the reader about the topic of the paper. Specific to C&I papers, the title should describe the type of educational innovation and the setting where it was implemented.2. Abstract: The paper must include an informational abstract of no more than 250 words that summarizes the purpose of the educational innovation, what takes place during the innovation, the data that supports the effectiveness of the innovation, and ''lessons learned'' that could help readers implement the innovation elsewhere. It is a succinct summary of the paper itself, rather than an introduction to the paper.3. Purpose and Learning Goals: The purpose of the educational innovation is clearly explained. Where appropriate, this includes learning goals stated in terms of what participants should know or be able to do after completing the activity, program, course, or other intervention. …