Recognizing the valuable role nature plays in human development as well as humans' responsibility toward the earth is critically important when considering how to transform education for the betterment of the individual and society. In this article, the author views nature as a force or phenomenon of the metaphysical world. As such, she suggests…

The educational needs of gifted children are discussed in the context of the educational program at the Mirman School in Los Angeles (California). (DB)

This paper advocates the potentials of "sweat lodge" rituals for adventure education programs. Historically, rituals and ceremonies have been instrumental in passing major philosophical and sociological paradigms from one generation to the next. However, there is little theory and research about how ritual and ceremony results in the…

The theoretical framework for a center for infinity is based on four propositions: (1) Untapped human resources in educational leadership are infinite. (2) The dimensions of effective educational leadership approach infinity and, as a result, leadership development should be based on diagnostic specification of instruction. (3) A seemingly…

This collection of four articles focuses on the needs of and services for young adolescents in the after-school hours. In "Young Adolescents and Their Communities: A Shared Responsibility," William Kerewsky and Leah M. Lefstein discuss the physical, intellectual, emotional, and social development of young adolescents. Elliot A. Medrich,…

The potential interface between human development theories and intergenerational programing is explored. Erik Erikson's division of adult development into young, middle, and later adulthood, and Butler and Lewis'"characteristics of older people," are considered. Older people can offer help and encouragement to youth while themselves…

Discusses factors contributing to the declining U.S. productivity growth rate and compares U.S. production to Germany and Japan. Presents model programs that have recognized the need to develop in people the desire to work, study, improve, and become more productive citizens. (LRA)

Discusses methods for promoting cooperative learning among preschoolers and the history of these methods. Describes class projects and activities at Dai-ichi Preschool in Japan, which uses group and individual activities to build a classroom group that fosters children's growth and creativity and supports children's efforts. (BB)

This discussion of the relationship between self-directed learning, adult development, and distance education presents findings from researchers in the field of autonomous learning. In addition, the implications of self-directed learning for the curriculum and teaching methods in distance education are considered. The document is divided into the…

In 1992, the U.S.-Israel Binational Science Foundation (BSF), in conjunction with Wheelock College (Boston), sponsored its second workshop on children's play, entitled "Play and Cognitive Ability: The Cultural Context." This volume reflects the presentations and discussions held at the workshop, offering perspectives on children's play…

Prepared for State University of New York/Buffalo researchers participating in a state-sponsored educational financing project, this background paper focuses on the vocational education "program effects" of changing financial aid formulas and/or the rationale for organizing school districts and regional services. It scrutinizes the role of Boards…