The underlying methodological approach of the CEFR is defined as being "action-oriented" and task-based (Council of Europe. 2001. "Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, teaching, assessment." Cambridge University Press: 9), although it explicitly leaves room for a variety of approaches, since the CEFR…

This article describes the development and administration of a survey to identify early childhood educators' successes and barriers when delivering remote instruction (e.g., online whole or small group instruction) during the COVID-19 pandemic to children 2-5 years old. The survey was developed using procedures outlined by the commonly accepted…

The area of progress testing has been neglected and has lagged far behind developments in language teaching and testing in general. In most classrooms today, English is taught through communicative textbooks that provide neither accompanying tests nor any guidance for test construction. Teachers are on their own in constructing tests to measure…

The development of classroom experiments where students examine their own DNA is frequently described as an innovative teaching practice. Often these experiences involve students analyzing their genes for various polymorphisms associated with disease states, like an increased risk for developing cancer. Such experiments can muddy the distinction…

The Guidelines for Good Practice of the European Association for Language Testing and Assessment (EALTA) stress the importance of collaboration between all parties involved in the process of developing instruments, activities and programmes for testing and assessment. Collaboration is considered to be as important as validity and reliability,…

Developing the ability to speak in a foreign language is an arduous task. This is because it involves the mastery of different language subsystems, simultaneous focus on comprehension and production, and the impact of a range of social factors. This challenge is further compounded in situations in which learners have limited access to the target…

The author states that by neglecting to give essay tests, teachers not only eliminate the motivation to read and write but also fail to test for a deep understanding of the material. The author presents guidelines for designing essay questions. (CT)

This article addresses ways in which fitness tests can be used positively in physical education. We take the position throughout the article that fitness tests should be used as formative evaluation to further educational goals. We begin by discussing the different ways in which adults and children use fitness tests. The next section, the heart of…

To assist in formulating design for mediated instruction, a series of guidelines were drawn up and validated, based on procedures developed for Project ASERT in Lincoln, Nebraska Public Schools. Eight steps are identified and detailed--design management, identifying target population, discovering learner needs, setting goals, establishing…

This paper reviews the empirical studies of washback from external exams and tests that have been carried out in the field of English language teaching. It aims to do so from the point of view of the teacher so as to provide teachers with a clearer idea of the roles they can play and the decisions they can make concerning washback. The paper…

This booklet outlines guidelines for choosing a teaching technique and describes a wide variety of techniques. It is intended as an aid to teachers of all subject matters. The first chapter develops a number of principles for choosing a teaching technique appropriate to a given situation, and divides techniques into three categories: 1) real-life,…

Vocational education teachers can use a variety of teaching methods and classroom techniques to help their students develop good work attitudes. First, the teacher can serve as a role model, acting as students should act when they are employed in industry. Along with role modeling, teachers should make sure that attitudinal development finds its…

This book provides practical, commonsense strategies successfully used by teachers to help students become active, responsible learners. In general, these strategies are centered on mutual respect, not bossiness; collaboration, not isolation; commitment to learning, not fear of failure; and the dignity of all, not praise or rewards for a few. Each…

This guide was prepared to assist vocational teachers in developing and implementing competency-based education in their classrooms and laboratories throughout secondary vocational and adult programs in Virginia. The guide may also (1) provide general and specific information on competency-based education (CBE); (2) serve as a resource for…

This report is distilled from Rand's findings in previously reported research and from new research. It is addressed to school board members, administrators, and other educational decisionmakers who may be contemplating a performance contracting program. The guide follows the life cycle of a project and identifies the three major phases as…