Considers research trends concerning cognitive styles in relation to various classroom factors. Explores relations between the field dependence-independence cognitive style dimension and instructional approaches and materials, classroom organizations, and teacher-student match and mismatch effects. (RJC)

It is contended that Conceptual Systems Theory (CST) provides a useful theoretical and operational framework within which to investigate student-environment interactions in the classroom. (Author/GK)

The implications of current theories of intrinsic motivation for educational practices for mildly handicapped learners are reviewed. The interaction of classroom demand environments, the effects of teacher reward and punishment, and individual differences in intrinsic motivation are discussed in relation to behavioral effectiveness and to academic…

Describes how the field dependence independence dimension of cognitive style affects teachers' instructional behaviors and students' learning behaviors, and how interaction of teachers' and students' cognitive styles creates different learning environments. Discusses matching alternatives, focusing on identical cognitive style matching and…

Research and theory indicates that successful teaching and learning occur when activities are focused on the individual learner's cognitive and affective needs. However, a strong emphasis toward cognitive development, encouraged by competency based education and back to basics movements, continues to influence classroom procedures. Children should…

Three approaches, focusing on (1) individual differences, (2) an aggregate composite, and (3) an aptitude-treatment interaction model to assess classroom climate, are discussed. A description of how a classroom climate approach to secondary-level psychological services can be implemented is presented. (Author/PN)

Research evidence indicates that one important variable in learning or development is the degree of match between relevant learner and environment characteristics. It has been argued that, to provide learning environments that would match student characteristics, teachers should be able to understand and identify the relevant characteristics of…

An overview is presented of classroom observation instruments which have been created and refined since 1962. The components of teacher-pupil transactions measured by different observation methods are listed, and the complexities and difficulties encountered when using the instruments are discussed. A description is given of the Coping Analysis…

Surveys recent literature on computer programing focusing on psychological studies of the programing task and selected instructional issues related to precollege programing. The cognitive demands and outcomes of programing, the influence of instruction on learning, and individual differences in outcomes of programing are specifically addressed.…

Most teachers and the public believe that children in kindergarten and the primary grades benefit from small classes because of children's need for individualized instruction and teacher attention. This report, part of a comprehensive policy study of early childhood education, presents a review of the research on the effect of class size on…

A review of research findings on context variables in the classroom and their effects on student achievement provided a framework upon which to base conclusions on the following factors pertaining to effective teaching: (1) teacher control of the classroom; (2) adjustment of teacher control of learning activities to student abilities; (3)…