The author hypothesized that (a) an analysis of the research literature would lead to identifying the behaviors and dispositions associated with successful goal-setting and goal achievement. He further hypothesized that (b) based on these data, an instructional package could be constructed to teach children a skill-strategy based on selected…

The research literature on learned helplessness in exceptional children is reviewed and the authors' efforts to identify and retrain learning disabled (LD) children who have characteristics typical of learned helplessness are reported. Twenty-eight elementary aged LD children viewed as "learned helpless" were randomly assigned to one of four…

The study examined learned helplessness in approximately 200 elementary aged learning disabled (LD) students and the effectiveness of classroom based attribution training and coping skills training for these children. Ss received one half hour training 3 days a week for 5 weeks in a program which used techniques of modeling, direct instruction,…

Examines the effects of using LOGO, or problem-solving- oriented simulation software on locus of control, self-esteem, and achievement motivation for fifth-grade students. The importance of these variables in predicting LOGO mastery and far-transfer problem-solving ability was also examined. (Author)

Social problem solving was taught to four groups of third and fourth graders: (1) control; (2) video modeling tapes; (3) tapes plus discussion; and (4) tapes plus role playing. Significant treatment effects were revealed on problem solving thinking, group interaction, and locus of control. (Author/GDC)

Seventy-two Black and Hispanic fourth through sixth graders completed a variety of problem-solving tasks emphasizing skills of preparation, production, and judgment. With reading achievement controlled within the sample, results suggest that these three sets of skills involve evaluative activity and that locus of control and self-esteem are…

A study involving 17 elementary school teachers investigated the effects of directly training teachers in problem-solving skills to enhance their performance on a consultation-related activity (parent-teacher conferences) regarding student-related problems. Results found the direct training enhanced the teachers' skills in describing students'…

Several teacher motivation variables were examined for relationships to stategies teachers use for responding to problem students. During interviews, 98 elementary school teachers described general strategies to twelve types of problem students: (1) failure syndrome; (2) perfectionist; (3) underachiever; (4) low achiever; (5) hostile aggressive;…

A plan for evaluating the Apple Classroom of Tomorrow (ACOT) is presented, which implements the model for Sensible Technology Assessment/Research (STAR). STAR involves interactive participation in the evaluation study by ACOT participants, collateral university researchers, and University of California (Los Angeles) staff to develop a credible,…