Effects of constant time delay, observational learning opportunities, and differential attentional cuing were examined during small-group instruction of three elementary students with mental retardation or at risk for learning problems. Findings support the salience of time delay in facilitating word acquisition in heterogeneous groups, and a…

Since history textbooks omit and/or emphasize certain data, students are left with a false sense of history. Although the "hard data" presented in history texts is generally regarded as reliable, the selection and organization of that data is inherently manipulative because other data has been excluded. Because authors do not begin with a…

Discusses what museums offer science teachers, including a visual extension of textbooks, educational experiences to hone observational skills, and special supplementary services including field museum courses, materials loan, museum libraries, and research departments. Specific instructional goals teachers should prepare before museum trips are…

Four curricular formats were examined for teaching employment-related interpersonal skills to 122 secondary students with mild retardation. Compared were the instructional effects of teacher or videotape modeling, behavior rehearsal, and problem-solving. The combination of videotape modeling and problem-solving was most effective in student…

Discussed is the 1986 NAEP data on understanding and using basic science facts. Suggests using observing, measuring, and hypothesis testing as supplements to traditional instructional methods. The use of this technique is urged for Black, Hispanic, and female students to compensate for the lack of outside experiences noted in the NAEP findings.…

Discusses environmental education, noting that teachers' science backgrounds are not nearly as important as their showing interest in children's experiences and discoveries, respect for environment, and encouragement of close observation of the world. Suggests that to help children understand and appreciate nature, teachers can focus on having…

This study investigated the differential effects of three laboratory experiences on preservice teachers' knowledge of specific teaching behaviors and ability to observe and report teacher behaviors. Results indicated knowledge of teaching behavior was significantly higher for the live telecast observation group than for the interactive video…

This study compared effects of two variations of the constant-time-delay (CTD) procedure on the observational learning of content area vocabulary by seven primary grade students with learning disabilities in a small group instructional setting. Both conditions (every student writes all words or only target student writes) were equally effective…

This study of two groups of four children (ages 6-9) with learning disabilities evaluated the effects of two contingencies (independent and interdependent) on the learning of students with learning and behavioral disabilities when conducted in small groups with constant time delay. Measures were collected on the rapidity with which children…

In keeping with the trend toward active, participative learning, observation projects for speech communication students can allow them to experiment with designing and carrying out a study of human communication. Students can be encouraged to look at the dynamics of a church congregation, a courtroom, a pre-game football huddle, or an office, and…

Two studies of teaching roles used by faculty in baccalaureate and higher degree nursing programs are discussed. The first study examined perceived clinical teaching roles identified by nurse faculty members who taught in clinical laboratory settings. Responses from 30 interviews revealed that: (1) The most commonly perceived role was that of…

This lesson plan demonstrates how to use common animals in your backyard or school grounds to study basic ecological principles with students. An example study uses squirrels for observational study. Includes background information, references, suggested equipment, activities, and observation techniques. (MCO)

Demonstrations that can be used to lead students to wonder and write about basic scientific principles are presented. Each demonstration includes the concept demonstrated, a list of materials, and procedures. Concepts include density and temperature of liquids, contracting matter with heat, atmospheric pressure, dramatic color changes, fireproof…

This paper reports research on interactional patterns associated with teaching and learning among Polynesian-Hawaiian children. Earlier ethnographic studies indicate that Hawaiian people may employ sets of learning and teaching behaviors which differ widely from those usually used in public schools. Comparison of videotaped mother and child…

Using simulations developed by the High School Geography Project and films recording the use of the simulations, teachers learn to: (1) use simulation exercises in class; (2) provide a classroom atmosphere conducive to free interaction and expression among students; (3) analyze simulation in terms of problems considered, alternative choices,…