Describes structured journal writing as a pedagogical tool to help learners become effective lifelong learners. Suggests using the journal writing to promote collaboration which makes effective use of the consciousness-raising and self-help group activities that have been used extensively in the Women's Movement. (KO)

The article describes seven methods to help special needs learners improve reading comprehension: the Pre Reading Plan; the six-step survey technique; semantic mapping; story maps; mental imagery; learning logs; and use of question-answer relationships. (DB)

Describes a study in which students were required to write for five minutes after class on topics that interested them during the lecture. Reports a significant effect on achievement in a vertebrate biology class. Notes that no difference in attitude was found. (MVL)

This report describes a program for improving the completion of homework assignments in a seventh-grade mathematics classroom in a large middle school in Rockford (Illinois). The problem of missing homework was noted by the mathematics teacher and confirmed by the other teachers on the seventh-grade team. Analysis of the probable-cause data…

Teachers today are faced not only with oversized classes, but with students of varying abilities who differ in the ways they process information. The fostering of diverse styles of learning has been neglected in the teaching of mathematics. The use of journal writing as a vehicle for assessing students' understanding of material provides an…

Illustrates the use of various means for facilitating and sustaining reflection at different levels and preparatory stages of professional practice. The following means are discussed: (1) writing; (2) journals; (3) case records; (4) contrived situations; (5) instrument feedback; (6) electronic feedback; (7) metaphor; (8) platforms; and (9)…

Reports on a study of two introductory sociology courses to determine whether informal writing assignments can aid learning. Finds that requiring students to keep journals did not significantly improve performance on essay tests. Asserts that teachers may be justified in requiring attendance as a strategy for increased learning. (CFR)

Integrating writing into the mathematics classroom is often met with resistance by teachers. Presented are ideas to help teachers implement four forms of writing appropriate for the mathematics class: (1) logbooks; (2) journals; (3) expository writing; and (4) creative writing. Specific examples and suggestions for classroom activities for each…

Describes the Vietnam Decision-Making Computer Simulation, a computer activity designed to enhance student understanding of the Vietnam War by placing them in the decision-making role of President Lyndon Baines Johnson. Outlines variables in the simulation. Discusses the use of class journals in combination with the simulation. (RW)

Discusses the results of a content analysis of student journals in which the students applied concepts from their social psychology course to their daily social experiences. Reveals that students applied each of four cognitive operations (labeling, explaining, reducing consequences, and self-assessing) to various aspects of the self. (MJP)

Recounts a portfolio writing assignment designed to help students develop better study skills, increase metacognitive awareness, and use self-reflection to evaluate their performance during the semester. Students completed surveys and journal entries assessing their strategies for reading and studying, as well as, performance goals, emotional…

Designed for education majors and minors in all subjects and as a resource for experienced teachers, the central theme of this book is writing to learn. The chapters are entitled: (1) Writing across the Curriculum; (2) Writing as a Process; (3) Levels of Writing; (4) Journals; (5) Writing as a Means for Learning; (6) Improving Writing Skills; (7)…

This instructor's manual for workplace trainers contains the materials required to conduct a course on developing successful learning strategies. The course includes six lessons for workers, two lessons for supervisors, and strategies for helping workers continue to develop the skills taught in the course. The following materials are provided for…

The discussion of reflective techniques for second language teaching is intended for teacher trainees and in-service teachers and focuses on practical applications of the reflective method. Each chapter presents an important dimension of teaching and poses questions for classroom observation, investigation, and critical reflection. The suggested…