Investigates whether preschool children aged 4.5-6 can construct the concept of mechanical stability through structured hands-on activities that involve the building of a tower on an inclined plane and the use of cans of various sizes and weights. Presents a theoretical framework for teaching and learning physics in the early years. (Contains 47…

Posits that historical details can lend credibility, spark interest, and establish context for elementary history instruction. Argues, however, that teachers must distinguish between factual details and major historical developments. Suggests textbooks, mastery learning pressures, and test construction practices contribute to the inappropriate use…

The study interviewed 20 university teachers of architecture recognized for excellent studio teaching. Fourteen factors contributing to effective studio teaching were identified, including teacher vitality, a match between teacher interests and the course, the frequent use of questioning techniques, use of students' interests, encouragement of…

The paper introduces the articles in this special issue, which addresses curriculum for learners with mild handicaps, the curriculum modification process, general modification techniques across subject areas, and content-specific modifications. Curriculum development is viewed as a process of modification rather than as a unique and separate body…

Contends the history and values that lie behind Jewish music offer music educators more than the holiday songs normally utilized. Discusses a variety of ways that Jewish music can enrich students' understanding of and appreciation for music history. Lists important composers of Jewish and non-Jewish background who have produced Jewish music. (DB)

Integrated learning systems need to be integrated into the school's larger curriculum, into regular classroom teaching, and into each student's total learning experience. (SI)

This article delineates characteristics and needs of gifted youth which should be addressed in developing the gifted curriculum, presents guiding principles for curriculum development, illustrates the goal writing process, specifies definitions and parameters of the process, and illustrates the development and use of scope-and-sequence documents.…

Critiques an article in which Shirley Engle points out the failure of designers and implementors of the social studies curriculum to develop adequate citizenship education content and strategies. Calls for a collective approach by social studies educators and urges an end to the divisive debates among these educators concerning the best approach…

Describes a Master's course in accounting that involved practitioners as members of the class who led discussion on an area in which they had expertise. (JOW)

A rationale for restructuring preservice teacher education programs to include higher-order thinking skills is presented. Models for such programs are reviewed and strategies are provided for course revision that reflects the infusion of a higher-level thinking emphasis. (IAH)

A checklist for the first year art teacher provides a means to set goals and select activities to improve instruction. The list addresses specific needs of the art teacher in nine areas. (JD)

Students in special schools or classes can follow mainstream curricula if sufficient support is provided through objective-based curricula. Identified are types of special education curricula, elements of curriculum planning and organization, characteristics of an objectives-based curriculum, specification of curriculum objectives, and suggestions…

At present computers in schools are misconceived; they are better conceptualized as a source of energy. The energy metaphor is applied to three categories of functions associated with computers in schools: curriculum functions, teaching functions, and learning functions. (IAH)

A service delivery model for language learning disabled adolescents is described. The model involves a daily classroom format which focuses on teaching language-based academic skills with an emphasis on learning strategies. Philosophical and historical rationales are presented, along with a curriculum implementation example. (Author/DB)

A conceptual framework for developing track and field programs in public schools is related. The framework consists of three phases of experiences: a fundamental movement phase, an athletic form phase which emphasizes action possibilities based on personal striving, and a final phase with a dual focus (health and sport skills/strategies). (IAH)