Evidence in psychology and economics has converged on an understanding of what matters for students' learning and what influences their life trajectories. While earlier work focused on the role of large scale assessment test scores, more recent research emphasizes the importance of socioemotional skills, experiences, and mindsets--such as conflict…

Since 1990, environmental education (EE) has become more integrated into K-12 education through EE programs. A synthesis of research identified overall themes, outcomes, benefits and challenges surrounding research integrating outdoor learning into mandatory curriculum. Most research on outdoor classroom focuses on student development, attitude,…

With the introduction of school choice as a viable option of school reform, researchers have begun to look beyond academic achievement to the effects of choice on alternative outcomes. Recently, non-cognitive skills and behavior stand at the front of those alternative outcomes. From the most up to date relevant literature it appears that school…

Providing students with equitable and safe learning experiences is a fundamental right; however school districts grapple with balancing student learning and student safety. In the Brown vs the Board of Education (1954) decision, the court identified education as a basic public responsibility and a principal instrument to facilitate understanding…

Canadian educational jurisdictions require teachers to assess and report upon aspects of student performance beyond academic achievement. These skills and competencies are often called "non-cognitive skills" (NCS). This study used document analysis to determine which NCS are assessed across provinces, identifying commonalities,…

Though we do our best to protect children from life's underbelly, bad things happen. Hurricanes, school shootings, divorce, exploding crime rates, economic downturns, child abuse, and acts of terror have become reality for many. Sadly, students are not immune from the chaos that often results. If a child worries that he is not safe or thinks…

The Positive Learning Framework (PLF) model builds on the theoretical foundations of universal needs as described in the Circle of Courage. PLF offers a positive lens through which one can view students, behaviour, and instruction. This unique model draws on emerging findings in resilience research, restorative practices, and positive youth…

The decisions today's students make ripple outward to their immediate family and school community. How can teachers help students make the right decisions and do the right things? When teachers help students make the connection between character and conduct, they begin to offer students a safe environment conducive to learning. This book shows how…

Provides educators with a problem-solving process that can be used in K-12 classrooms. Defines, in particular, a solution-focused problem-solving strategy that emphasizes goal identification and implementation. States that this technique helps make positive behavioral changes in students' lives by focusing on future solutions instead of past…

With the decline in morality and values, character education is gaining considerable momentum. Public opinion polls show growing support for teaching it in schools. Evidence indicates that character education programs change the school culture for the better, allowing students to feel safe to concentrate on learning. In Colorado, character…

Presented here is volume one of a catalog developed by the Toledo, Ohio Public Schools and the Evaluation Center at Western Michigan University and designed as a tool for the evaluation of student growth and learning. The introduction and preface provide information concerning the development and use of these materials which are said to be…

Describes case study groups, a method to help teachers and other school personnel see what developmental and adjustment issues students face. Describes how case study group members collect information from a range of sources, code the information into behavioral anecdotes, spot gaps in information, and select new experiences that might help…

The intent of this book is to present the developmental stages of discipline and a conceptual framework for the role of the teachers. Chapters cover the nature of discipline, discipline and development, discipline and the curriculum, teaching (including teacher authority), lack of attention and teacher expectation, discipline in special settings…

As the educational community works together to improve academic achievement, the importance of character traits such as honesty, trustworthiness, self discipline, kindness, empathy, respect, responsibility, and courage must not be neglected. This guide has been designed to help educators and families in Massachusetts link character development and…

The Brooks Educational Quality Indicators project tested the premise that quality education in Brooks (Alberta) results from the right blend of attention to academics and developing character within a firm set of behavioral demands. The first stage of the study included data collection on district perceptions from teachers, staff, administrators,…