During the 1970s unprecedented attention has been directed internationally to the conceptualization, assessment, and study of classroom learning environment. This paper introduces and classifies eight papers appearing in the same journal which integrate past research on classroom environment and identify recent developments which could influence…

Current curriculum initiatives in mathematics call for the development of classroom communities that take communication about mathematics as a central focus. In these proposals, mathematical discourse involving explanation, argumentation, and defense of mathematical ideas becomes a defining feature of a quality classroom experience. In this…

Assessment reform has been on the educational agenda of many countries for at least two decades. In this article - which begins by charting what lies behind the calls for a paradigm shift in assessment and what is being proposed instead - classroom assessment is explored in detail in relation to its links with teacher and student assessment, as…

Argues that if schools are to be made more effective, educators must understand the interaction between their academic and socialization functions, as well as comprehend what happens in schools and the societal context in which schools are embedded. (MP)

The contention that classroom design influences impression formation has not been empirically tested. The purpose of this article is to bring to the attention of educational psychologists the possibilities for research in this area. The paper summarizes the findings of some initial investigations and suggests directions for future study.…

An analytical and integrating perspective on much of the classroom environment research conducted in the 1970s is provided. The Classroom Environment Scale is described, and an overview of many studies which have used this and other instruments for various research purposes is presented. (RL)

Shows that motivation research is generally compatible with and supportive of the whole language philosophy of instruction. Provides explicit motivational reasons why whole language practices might be effective. Suggests whole language classrooms provide settings where motivation researchers can investigate the success of motivation principles,…

Provides a summary and analysis of the content of "Readings on Interaction in the Classroom" (Delamont, 1984). Concludes that this book makes an important contribution by bridging the gap between social scientists and educational practitioners. (JDH)

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)

An analytical, integrating perspective on much of the classroom environment research conducted in the 1970s is provided. The initial development of the Learning Environment Inventory and original research programs are described. (RL)

Presents the theoretical underpinnings of classroom climate, and discusses theoretical issues that should be considered when investigating the human activity of pedagogy within bilingual multicultural classroom climates. (35 references) (JL)

Provides an overview of the theoretical basis and methods used for social studies classroom research. Suggests improvements in classroom climate constructs by integrating social studies literature and traditional classroom research approaches. Offers recommendations for improving future research. (SG)

This article reviews published research on (i) classrooms as communities; (ii) classrooms as communities of learners; and (iii) classrooms as learning communities. It is based on a reading of about 100 texts. It aims to answer the question "What do we now know about the effects of operating classrooms as learning communities?". Despite…

Research on teaching has contributed few generalizations to guide teachers either directly or indirectly through its influence on the content of teacher education programs. Research involving practicing teachers, teacher trainees, and educational researchers working together on projects articulated with professional courses promises more than…

Classroom research linking teaching behavior and classroom management to student learning, especially in the area of basic skills, is reviewed. (JMF)