In the educational literature on peer effects, attention has been brought to the fact that the mechanisms creating peer effects are still to a large extent hidden in obscurity. The hypothesis in the study reported in this article was that the Frame Factor Theory (FFT) can be used to reveal such mechanisms. Using data from the Swedish TIMSS 2015 (N…

In this study done at a community college in South Florida, the achievements of students who spoke English as their second language who had attended their K-12 education outside the United States in their home countries, in a U.S. college course on world geography are compared with the achievements of students in the same classes who spoke English…

Discusses what size classrooms should be and what research is revealing on the concept of social distance and its influence on classroom size considerations. A standard classroom size chart is provided. (GR)

This report analyzes and critiques the Chicago (Illinois) Board of Education's implementation of the administrative initiatives regarding the prevention of within-school segregation under a court-mandated desegregation plan. The board was required to ensure that students did not become resegregated after implementation of the desegregation plan.…

A simple algebraic model relating the mean achievement in a class to the students' ability range is presented. Agreement between the model and data on the relationship between mean achievement and class size is described. Data concerning opinions of 15 primary school through university teachers quantitatively support the model. (TJH)

This article discusses arguments for and against ability grouping as reflected in the literature and research work. Such tracking problems as segregation, stigma, and elitism are discussed, as are between-class vs. within-class grouping strategies and specifically designed programs for the gifted. (PB)

This study reports a preliminary investigation into the origins, assumptions, and practices of one of the most widespread innovations in schooling: the classroom system. Material for the historical study is drawn from sources in Glasgow, Scotland, where the combined influences of Calvinist theology, Scottish-French philosophy, and the industrial…

On completion of this unit, one should be capable of performing each of the following unit objectives: describe individual differences among students; define individualized instruction, list modes of individualization, and present a general instructional model of individualization; justify student self-direction as a learning goal and as a…

This paper explores group cohesiveness, class discussion, and group size in relation to classroom environment and the cognitive-personal growth outcomes of classroom learning. Implications are drawn from the research on cohesiveness for teachers who employ open classroom techniques. (Author/SJL)

Ability grouping can impact students' self-esteem and cause segregation. Suggestions for using ability grouping beneficially include reassessing grouping assignments frequently, varying instructional levels and pace, assigning groups based on demonstrated needs and abilities, grouping students for only one or two subjects, and using ability groups…

Presented is a review of literature and research on identification, personality and educational needs, and effective programing for gifted children. Among the topics discussed are the difficulties of defining giftedness operationally, pros and cons with regard to using intelligence tests and informal teacher assessment to identify the gifted,…

Outlines four stages of group development in the classroom (Inclusion and Membership, Establishing Shared Influence and Collaborative Decision Making, Pursuing Individual and Academic Goals, Self-Renewal: Adapting to Changes), exercises to facilitate each stage, and the teacher's role throughout. (LC)

To assist districts in analyzing and using the second set of results (the summary reports for class, school and district) from the New Jersey Minimum Basic Skills Tests, this guidelines booklet was developed. The booklet is divided into four main sections: (1) required interpretation of the summary reports; (2) interpretation checklist; (3)…

Investigated in this study are the school sorting process (how students are matched with schools, courses, and teachers) and the possible positive effects of mandating that schools disclose how this process occurs. After an introduction, chapters 2 and 3 present findings about the sorting practices in seven California school districts. It was…