Compares the rationale, design, use, and effectiveness of approaches to literacy education: natural, whole language, learner centered, and particpatory. Provides guidelines for literacy programs: create a community of learners, make literacy learning meaningful, help learners see how language evolves, and connect literacy to life. (SK)

Examines the current rift in perspective between whole language arts and traditional language arts instruction by analyzing the basis of each view in research and theory. Suggests research developments that might alleviate the present impasse. Describes the need for new hypotheses, a variety of designs, improved instrumentation, and collaborative…

The whole language approach to reading instruction emphasizes a literature-based program rather than the traditional skills-related approach. The principles and practices of whole language have engendered both educational and political debate for the following reasons: whole language challenges the traditional educational power arrangement, giving…