The effectiveness of problem-based learning (PBL) in terms of increasing students' educational attainments has been extensively studied for higher education students and in nonexperimental settings. This paper tests the effectiveness of PBL as an alternative instruction method in secondary education. In a controlled experiment at the class level,…

Presents a perspective on the nature of the use of proofs in high school geometry. Compares three currently used approaches to the geometry curriculum: (1) traditional geometry with no explanation of the axiomatic system; (2) hands-on geometry with no proofs until the end of the course; and (3) experimental geometry with no proofs. (DDR)

Offers opposing views of the merit of EQuality project, a high school reform movement designed to improve students' performance through curriculum changes. (JL)

Describes three systems of interactive satellite instruction for high school credit: German by Satellite, offered by the University of Oklahoma; Accelerated Learning of Spanish, originating in Utah; and the TI-IN network, which broadcasts 14 different high school courses from San Antonio, Texas. (JC)

The interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary curriculum at the experimental high school on the Sde Boker campus of Ben Gurion University in the Negev, Israel, is described. It is viewed as a worldwide model available to academic communities to study the impact of environment on survival of all living things. (MP)

Experiences of two British secondary mathematics teachers as they try curricular and instructional innovations are related. Suggestions for the teaching of several topics and specific examples of student reaction to these topics are given. (MK)

Describes the California International Studies Project which was designed to strengthen precollegiate students' knowledge of international issues. Examines the impact of the project on school districts. Reports that ongoing evaluation indicates that this program brings together scholars of international cultures with teachers and administrators.…

The study concluded that ninth-grade Fundamentals of Mathematics students can achieve at a higher level when using hand-held calculators and a specially designed curriculum. (MK)

Describes the conflict resolution program, Resolving Conflict Creatively (RCCP), that was founded for violence-torn schools in New York City. RCCP encourages open discussion in a supportive atmosphere through curriculum support, professional training of parents and teachers, and student-led mediation. (JPS)

This article gives a brief account of secondary school mathematics curriculum development in China. Some experimental teaching materials and teaching methods are introduced. One of the most influential projects is described in detail. (Author/PK)

Presents an experimental secondary school curriculum as drafted by the Soviet Union's Ministry of Education in 1987. Intended for implementation (after modifications) by the year 2000, as part of perestroika and educational reform. Examines the curriculum's rationale. Lists school subjects, indicating number of hours and grades in which they…

Illustrates how one mathematics department has added courses to widen pupils' views of mathematics and to improve their problem-solving ability. (PK)

Investigates the acceptability and possible role of virtual reality (VR) in environmental education. Among the principal findings were that the sample population of environmental educators indicated an acceptance of VR as a teaching tool. VR applications that allow students to have an experience not available in the physical world were perceived…

Examines forces leading to the establishment of Cecil Reddie's New School at Abbotsholme in Derbyshire (England). Views the school, with its emphasis upon physical fitness and practical activity, as the first modern progressive school from which many such institutions evolved. Notes that Reddie contributed to concepts of numerous subsequent…

In September 1992, France opened 104 high school subject-area classes taught in English, German, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese. The experience of the first year of these "European sections" is examined, and the implications for change in the French education system are considered. (MSE)