This phenomenological study examines teachers' self-reported practices related to the learning centers in classrooms that were recommended by the 2013 Turkish Preschool Curriculum and the conditions of such centers. Data from 38 female and six male preschool teachers were collected through a semi-structured interview protocol and an observation…

The two studies examined in this paper compare the different mathematical opportunities provided in preschool classrooms in China, Japan, and the United States, with an emphasis on mathematical-themed books in classroom libraries. Study one presents the results of an online survey to examining the content of preschool classroom libraries in China…

Teaching financial literacy is important at all stages of life, but is often neglected with elementary students. In this article, the authors describe a strategy for teaching financial literacy using the books about Max and Ruby by Rosemary Wells. These books can help introduce the five key concepts of financial literacy: scarcity, exchange,…

In an afterschool space, desks are grouped in fours. In the center of each group is a seemingly random assortment of materials, including uncooked spaghetti, spiced gumdrops, and a small cardboard square. After a brief introduction to the activity, a staff member posts the challenge on the wall: Using only these materials and working together as a…

ReLeah Cossett Lent provides practical advice for ensuring that books are kept on shelves and in classrooms for students to read. She outlines steps for creating professional learning communities that engage with censorship issues and prepare schools to deal with book challenges in thoughtful, supportive ways. (Contains 4 figures.)

This brief column offers ten tips on how to revive classroom learning centers by cleaning up, reassessing spaces, and adding fresh materials. Some of the tips include: create colorful banners; provide inspirational materials; and share surprise boxes.

By adopting the Smart School Snacks program, administrators and teachers at the Nova Southeastern University (NSU) preschool center have prompted a healthy change in attitude about snacks. Simple healthy snacks have become the norm at the center and are welcomed by children and families alike. Family involvement is a critical part of the program.…

Defining a learning center as a classroom area containing several learning stations where students may work independently with materials which teach, reinforce, or enrich their skills, this guide presents a number of ideas for use in the visual motivation display area of such a center. Suggestions for displays for the various teaching stations are…

Recommends a rotation process for teaching accounting. Discusses student goals, selected proper materials (cassette tapes, computer simulation center, journals, and business forms), work stations, how to track student progress, and individual work paces. (CT)

This bulletin, the first of a series, considers the importance of a physical environment planned especially for kindergarten children. The creative use of space within the classroom and outdoors is discussed. Suggestions are given for furnishing interest centers such as a housekeeping area, a science counter, and a painting area. Guidelines for…

This article outlines an eight-station learning center, based on commercial materials, which students may use in their free time to improve skills in deductive and inductive reasoning, criticism and analysis, creative thinking, problem solving, and moral reasoning. (Author/SJL)

Ideas for learning centers that will motivate students include: (1) a "railroad station" for reading groups; (2) a model rocket where children can use calculators; (3) a walled-in castle study center; (4) a model one-room schoolhouse; (5) a map center; and (6) a music center. Procedures for building and stocking the centers are…

A study of teacher-prepared packets for classroom interest centers suggests that such materials are often inadequate instructional materials because they have no goal or they have inadequate instructions. (TJ)

Presents some of the early history of instructional development models; discusses the role of models in instructional development; reviews some of the more influential models; and discusses the possible impact of selected trends on future models of instructional development, including electronic performance support systems and rapid prototyping.…

Argues for increased attention to current events in social studies instruction. Suggests using mass media sources to supplement contemporary affairs teaching. Recommends that teachers create learning centers and display areas; encourage students to maintain current affairs folders, scrapbooks, journals, and learning logs; give current affairs…