Middle school teachers are being urged to involve students in inquiry learning to counter disengagement from learning common in this group. To do this, teachers need to develop students' self-directed learning (SDL) skills so they will be equipped to take responsibility for their learning. This study collected perspectives of four years 6 and 7…

Educators who are collaborating globally identify the potential for student-to-student global interactions leading to deeper understanding of how the world works. This qualitative study explored the phenomenon of online global collaboration through interviews with geographically dispersed K-12 educators. The aim was to understand better online…

This paper examines the teacher's role in developing students' self-regulated learning (SRL) by examining the beliefs and practices of one primary school teacher. The paper then describes how the teacher applied these in her classroom and how students benefitted. Data were collected via interviews, classroom observations, and informal…

The benefits attributed to field trips by science educators are: social development; observation and perception skills; giving meaning to learning; providing first-hand experience and stimulating interest and motivation. Arguably, the "real value" of field work is attributed by students. In this study, 100 first-year students took part…

Examines the relationships between adolescents' educational aspirations and young adults' educational attainment. Explains that three factors were considered: (1) family background; (2) individual characteristics; and (3) proximal learning settings. Uses data from a longitudinal study of Australian youth (n=3772 females; n=3476 males). (CMK)

Explores the responses of teachers and parents to a trial of 'cluster grouping' (gifted students grouped together in a mixed ability class) as a model to meet the needs of exceptional students in a junior secondary school. Identifies factors impacting the school's Cluster Group Project. Discusses the results. (CMK)