Teacher judgments impact on students' academic development, yet studies have revealed only modest judgment accuracy. Identifying biases hampering judgment accuracy is crucial. The present study scrutinized one such bias, namely reference group effects on teacher judgments (i.e., systematic relations between class-average ability and teacher…

Background: Securing appropriate challenge or preventing boredom is one of the reasons frequently used to justify ability grouping of gifted students, which has been shown to have beneficial effects for achievement. On the other hand, critics stress psychosocial costs, such as detrimental effects on academic self-concept (contrast or…

In-depth interviews with Mexican-American and Euro-American bilingual teaching candidates examined differences in reference group orientation, affiliative identity, and rationale for becoming a bilingual teacher. Mexican Americans had a strong Mexican affiliative identity and seemed personally compelled to maintain the language and culture.…

Formulates three reference group hypotheses to explain why some disadvantaged students achieve more highly than others. Focusing on low SES Hispanic language minority students, analysis shows that both middle class and Hispanic reference group orientations have a positive impact on educational achievement. (PS)

This manual describes a project developed to assist schools to help low-motivated students to increase their attendance and motivation, and to help reduce dropouts by enhancing students' self-image and increasing their success experiences in school. Each chapter contains a step-by-step outline for developing each stage of the program: (1) student…