This paper discusses arguments for the social nature of knowledge construction, the balancing influence of individual knowledge construction, conceptualization of the relative roles of individual and social dynamics in children's learning, important principles of effective instruction, and implications for designing educational programs for…

This article describes the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) and examines the relationship between gifted programs and total school improvement using the SEM. Goals of SEM include a school SEM specialist, a strong research base, a broadened conception of human potential, and educational experiences grounded in a high-end theory of learning.…

This article provides a consistent framework through which educators may better identify and serve gifted and talented students by revisiting the dynamics of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) in relation to student achievement. Delivery and structural and organizational components of SEM are discussed, along with research supporting the model.…

The design and effects of a data-based approach to training school staff in the implementation of innovative programs are discussed. The rationale and design of the Data-Based Staff Development Program, which has been developed to train school staff to implement the programmatic and personnel changes required to effectively establish and maintain…

The Growing Giftedness Model for teaching gifted students is presented, which includes the following features: identification that relies entirely on scores and on demonstrated performance; cluster grouping during elementary school and classes dominated by gifted students at the secondary level; acceleration and enrichment; creative expression…

The Transcultural Education Model presents a unified working model for teaching limited English proficient, English-as-Second-Language (ESL), or English-as-Second-Language transcultural (ESLT) students to read, write, and speak English. The model is designed for students and teachers in elementary, secondary, and adult schools. The model is…

This final report discusses the activities and outcomes of a project that provided training on the Paraeducator Supervision Academy (PSA) Model (curriculum, instructional materials, and supervision of paraprofessionals) to faculty who will prepare future school professionals. Training was provided to faculty and preservice students in schools and…

This pamphlet discusses the benefits of using the Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) for providing numerous enrichment and acceleration alternatives that are designed to accommodate the academic strengths, interests, and learning styles of all middle school students, including gifted students. It explains the different components of SEM including…

The conceptual focus of this study centers on a key aspect of improved schooling: the development of sophisticated thinkers in the K-12 sequence of education. The document is organized into four major sections. The first section describes how the theoretical bases of a thinking skills program are developed and rooted in the literature. In section…