The term "Web 2.0"--a buzzword for a technological evolution that's been taking place online for some time--has many different definitions. In general, it refers to Web sites that go beyond simply presenting words and images, often allowing users to share information and collaborate in new ways. Content on the Web used to be largely static. One…

Proposing that Socratic seminars can lead to true educational reform, this article examines the use of these seminars to enlarge elementary and secondary students' understanding of ideas and to encourage instruction that is not restricted by established syllabi, courses, or examinations. Socratic discussion is lacking in most classrooms but should…

Describes a cross-disciplinary peer teaching program to improve high school teachers' writing skills. The 16-week program succeeded because of four main ingredients: administrative support, a long-term commitment to improving student writing, an onsite, inservice design, and incentives for teacher involvement. (MLH)

Drama in the classroom means honing thinking skills, increasing comprehension, bringing the written word to life, and fun. And it's effective with general, gifted, and at-risk students from K-12. (Author/TE)

Describes problems associated with teaching a multigraded social studies class. Relates an apocryphal story about how one teacher used innovative practices in a multigraded class but aroused administrative ire. Questions whether scores on achievement tests are more important than critical-thinking and decision-making skills. (CFR)

These guides focus on reading fluency and reading comprehension. Part I focuses on the instructional techniques called Partner Reading because of its strong empirical base across readers who fail to acquire reading fluency for any number of reasons. Part II focuses on reading comprehension, which is one of several essential skills that enable…

Describes and promotes topic synthesis, an approach where students rather than instructors summarize the key points of the previous lecture at the beginning of the next class. Benefits include improved oral presentation skills and reinforcement of key concepts. The method also provides an accurate assessment tool. (MJP)

In order to raise the quality of teaching and teacher education in Uruguay, a program of innovation and change was considered at a 1986 educational conference. Conference goals included identifying ways to: (1) increase opportunities to promote innovation and change; (2) search for strategies to encourage creative problem solving; (3) increase…

In a Florida county school system the combination of three afterschool homework assistance programs has increased students' responsibility for assignments. Students question teachers through telephone assistance. Students and parents talk with volunteer teachers in school libraries. A cooperative-use agreement with the educational channel brings…

Analyzes three scenarios featuring champion educators' efforts to challenge business-as-usual predilections of school administrators. School systems can develop innovative, future-directed programs with effective planning, administrative support for creative teachers, and testing for results that match school values. (MLH)

This book provides an overview of leadership in grades 6-12. Drawing upon theories based on cognitive and affective leadership and the role of leadership in gifted education, it discusses leadership as it pertains to research projects, problem solving, interpersonal communication, and decision-making. The book offers strategies for curriculum…

Profiles are presented of 30 programs and practices that were developed by the 1987 recipients of the New Jersey Governor's Teacher Grants in the following categories: drama and music; reading and writing; science; social sciences; social skills/special education; study skills; and technology. Each profile provides essential information under the…

Argues that employer/student programs on a small scale can be as effective as larger endeavors. Describes a pilot project where employer involvement focused solely on evaluation and feedback of geography students' oral presentations. Discusses the benefits and problems of the program. (MJP)

Even in schools termed "outstanding" by local and state reviews, few teachers demonstrate artful, inspired classroom instruction. Probable causes include (1) the emphasis in schools on order, competency, and basics, (2) random minilectures, (3) teachers' growing old in place, and (4) the dearth of younger career teachers. (IW)

This book provides information to help teachers use the Internet in the classroom. Tips from 28 educators note potential pitfalls and offer many perspectives on teaching with the Internet. The educators present their own classroom materials, lesson plans, Web sites, and words of wisdom. Interviews with renowned experts in the field address key…