This autoethnographic case study examines the localization of the literature circle (LCs) methodology within a Chinese EFL (English as a Foreign Language) pedagogy course, focusing on the training of prospective educators. Most Chinese K-12 EFL teachers, having graduated as English majors, frequently lack exposure to innovative, student-centered…

Reports of Japanese educational practices have overlooked the strong family-school bond and the significant role of the mother as educator. Interviews with non-Japanese mothers in Japan illustrate the differences in values, family systems, and gender roles make adoption of Japanese educational techniques unlikely and inappropriate for American…

While the art of Buddhism has an enduring tradition throughout Asia, this teaching guide focuses on the cultures of three countries in which the Smithsonian's Freer and Sackler Galleries' collections are particularly strong: India, China, and Japan. The guide identifies grade level appropriateness for some lessons and activities. It contains 15…

For the past 2000 years the Ramayana has been among the most important literary and oral texts of South Asia. This epic poem provides insights into many aspects of Indian culture and continues to influence the politics, religion, and art of modern India. This booklet contains material designed to provide an entry into the study of this tradition.…

Henri Matisse (1869-1954) is recognized as one of the great artists of the twentieth century. The paintings and drawings that he executed in Morocco in 1912 and 1913 reveal a pivotal stage in the artist's career. His Moroccan paintings have been compared to an interior journey taking place side by side with the outer one. This packet includes…

The essays gathered in this volume are united by the common goal of understanding teaching and learning in Japan as it actually occurs. The essays seek to answer questions about the actual conduct of learning in different settings and at different points in the life cycle. This volume explores the expectations and associations found in specific…

This teaching guide about India presents teaching-learning strategies. The major intent is to help the teacher and student examine and understand another culture within its own frame of reference, thereby helping the student understand his own. The overall emphasis of the guide is on the development and understanding of concepts and…

Reports on a study of 815 elementary and secondary students and adults on the types of evidence referred to in art historical interpretation. Finds that participants referred to four general types of evidence: (1) artist; (2) viewer; (3) culture; and (4) perception. (CFR)

This teacher resource packet provides information, techniques, and a series of lesson units designed to introduce students to ancient Nubia through works of art found in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, Massachusetts. The packet consists of three curriculum units based upon aspects of ancient Nubian life or culture. These units…

This guide to resources on India is designed to help teachers, students, librarians, and general adult readers locate materials that will help them understand Indian civilization. It is presented in five chapters. Chapter I offers three essays--"Learning About India: An Overview on Understanding India," by P. Lal; "On Teaching…

Indepth research on Chinese students questions Western notions regarding motivation and memorization. Chinese educators believe creativity and understanding require much effort, repetition, and attention. Time on task and behavioral problems may be less relevant. Reform efforts using transplanted ideas must consider both societies' contexts.…

Provides a series of instructional activities and material concerning African art. Includes four color plates of African artwork. Accompanying materials include cultural, historical background information on each piece, as well as, learning activities. Artwork is from Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, and Zaire. (MJP)