Bruner's constructs of learning, specifically the structure of learning, spiral curriculum, and discovery learning, in conjunction with the Cognitive Load Theory, are used to evaluate the Picture Word Inductive Model (PWIM), an inquiry-oriented inductive language arts strategy designed to teach K-6 children phonics and spelling. The PWIM reflects…

The purpose of this discussion is to identify and to describe current models of reading comprehension in order to draw conclusions regarding their application to classroom teaching. The models are categorized according to the different approaches to comprehension: "Behavior Models" are concerned with determining behavioral outcomes for teaching…

Argues that teachers' instructional practices reflect their concepts of the reading process and that, therefore, it is important for them to operate from a sound theoretical view of reading. Suggests an interactive model and schema theory as the basis for such a theoretical view. (FL)

This response to Gersten and Dimino (EC 606 357) proposes that difficulties with both whole language and direct instruction of students with learning disabilities can be avoided with a model of instruction based on research in cognition and metacognition. Three techniques are discussed, including situated cognition, cognitive strategy instruction,…

The Cognitive Enrichment Network Educational Model (COGNET) is a comprehensive elementary school approach to assist children in becoming effective, independent, life-long learners, by using mediated learning to address each child's personal and cultural characteristics and social milieu. This paper describes the COGNET approach for nurturing…

Participants at a conference on mathematics teaching discussed what it means to know and understand a subject and what teachers need to know, understand, and believe in order to teach a subject to elementary learners. The first section of the report covers the first day of the conference that was spent in a series of whole-group sessions.…

Contends that metaphorical thinking can help teachers and students construct new contexts for instruction and learning. Describes the use of metaphors as the basis for a preservice elementary social studies education course. (CFR)

Describes how putting the theory of multiple intelligences into practice in Montessori elementary schools could enhance students' self-knowledge, animate independent learning, and make learning communities more culturally inclusive. Suggests pluralizing the point of entry into a topic, building teaching teams to support diverse intellects, and…

This booklet for parents summarizes the curriculum at the University of Tulsa School for Gifted Children in Oklahoma. Program goals are to: (1) enhance academic achievement; (2) provide an emotionally supportive and intellectually challenging atmosphere; and (3) develop a creative and positive approach to school learning. A major premise of…

Introduces the constructivist theory of mathematical learning, and illustrates its application in a curriculum focusing on fundamental concepts. How knowledge is constructed, how concepts mature, and what it means to learn and to know mathematics are presented. Pedagogical implications of adopting a constructivist perspective on knowledge and…

An analysis of a 10-minute episode in which 7-year-old students (n=3) engage in collaborative small group activity is presented to explore the relationship between individual learning and group development. Students learned as they interactively constituted situations for justification or validation, yielding an institutionalized solution method.…

Presents a scripted lesson plan for intermediate grades, based on M.C. Wittrock's model of generative teaching derived from brain lateralization research. Uses a shopping mall as the setting for hypothetical dilemmas. Offers a combination of verbal and imagined strategies that improve students' economic reasoning and teaches cost-benefit analysis.…