The author summarizes a conference on learning opportunities for older people by discussing six issues: (1) perspectives of older people and service providers; (2) categorization of older learners; (3) learning needs of older people; (4) participation rates; (5) government policies; and (6) curriculum concerns. (SK)

A third grade teacher explains how he utilized cooperative learning and a reward system to encourage a disruptive student to change his behavior. The teacher scored each team on group accomplishments. As the child learned to work with others, his attitude changed and his academic ability benefited the team. (SM)

More than five years of research offers little evidence that students who attend federally funded remedial and learning disabled reading programs improve their reading skills. The three assumptions underlying these programs are discussed. Ways teachers and schools can evaluate their programs are listed. (MT)

A remedial reading teacher compares her experience in a night-school carpentry course to how she taught her students, reflecting on whether she adequately prepared students for learning, correctly assumed how much students knew, and was appropriately reassuring to students. (CB)

A teacher's review of the actual instructional time, after allowing for outside religious, music, arts, and physical education and administrative activities, revealed that there actually was less than two hours a day for instruction in subjects required by school districts. (CB)

What makes the surge in learning disabled (LD) children disturbing is that no one clearly understands what LD really means. LD is usually defined in terms of disability, deficiency, and disadvantage--rather than ability, asset, and advantage. Studies now reveal that LD children actually possess positive learning styles and abilities that were…

Varied exercises are offered for teachers to use in sharpening students' listening skills. (DG)

"1984" and other works by George Orwell contain messages that are pertinent to teaching. Orwell left a teaching career for other work; his comments on teaching, rote learning, regimentation, and literature are discussed. (PP)

This essay examines some shortcomings of traditional methods of studying and helping children and concludes that teachers need to recognize that the child is able to inform and enlighten the teacher. (JMF)

This article identifies physical, psychological, and social obstacles that may block students' thinking ability. Guidelines are provided to help teachers uncover and overcome hidden obstacles. A glossary of thinking skills terms is included. (IAH)

Describes how a third-grade teacher worked with a child in her class who had attention deficit disorder. The child was easily distracted and frustrated and had low self-esteem. The teacher's sensitivity to his ups and downs and her flexibility in modifying lessons helped the child succeed. (SM)

Children's natural enthusiasm for science is too often destroyed by the way the subject is taught. An elementary school teacher explains how to instill in young students an interest in science and a desire to understand why things happen as they do. (PP)

Two elementary teachers discuss their experiences of having children with attention deficit disorder and learning disabilities in their second-grade classrooms, focusing on the process involved in deciding whether or not to medicate the children with Ritalin to enhance their ability to learn. (SM)

The parent of a child who suffered from a developmental disability tells of problems with the kindergarten teacher concerning the child's placement and evaluation. Parents can provide valuable information about their children--if only teachers will listen. (PP)

Using data and analyses gathered from multiple sources, this article discusses how students learn in reading, writing, and mathematics. A section on reading concentrates on methods and materials that motivate, a writing section concentrates on content, and a mathematics section discusses procedures for problem solving. A bibliography is included.…