Offers alternatives to conventional modes of instruction by making practical applications of collaborative learning theory. Describes strategies to de-center the classroom by journaling, workshopping, and linking reading with writing. Suggests that with this approach students exhibit less writing apprehension, increased fluency, as well as changed…

Describes a science experiment in which the heartbeats of mammals can be counted and graphed as measurable data by the computer. Provides information on materials needed, pre-lab activity worksheet, and follow-up activities. (RT)

Outlines a lesson on the study of rocks including classification, identification, and observation techniques. Provides a listing of activities which integrate rocks with art, mathematics, and language arts. (RT)

Urges history teachers to be more cognizant of the methods involved in the writing-across-the-curriculum movement. Suggests that these methods could provide students with the opportunity to learn history independently. Outlines the steps taken to implement these methods. (KO)

Suggests the use of picture books to teach the five fundamental themes of geography in the primary grades. Describes the use of maps which follow the paths of characters in children's literature. Discusses the use of four stories that are accompanied by maps and follow-up activities. Includes reproducible maps. (KO)

The article identifies some of the problems with current cooperative-learning strategies and implementation, links those limitations to both the wider cooperative-learning movement and the nature of middle schools, and calls for conceptualizing and structuring cooperative learning within a much larger educational, social, economic, and political…

This second in a series of articles on technology and at-risk students focuses on innovative teaching/learning strategies. Highlights include individualized instruction through integrated learning systems and electronic books; collaborative learning through simulations and computer conferencing; peer tutoring with software; parental involvement;…

Discusses a method of teaching the multiplication of integers to eighth-grade students that utilizes videotape recordings to represent positive and negative rates. Videotapes of students walking forward and backward in the play and rewind modes illustrate that the product of two negatives is positive. (MDH)

Interviews with 18 teachers in high school technical classes indicated that instructional setting demands are very similar to those in general academic classes and pose serious challenges to the literacy and mathematical skills of students with learning disabilities. Special educators are urged to collaborate with technical teachers to apply…

Proposes an approach to educational change that is nondisruptive to the present system, produces meaningful and lasting learning outcomes, and is cost-effective. Identifies the elements involved in creating this approach: learning and thinking models, technology integration, shared vision of the future, professional practice, interdisciplinary…

Asserts that folktales from around the world can be used in the elementary social studies classroom to teach about cultural traits. Discusses types of folktales and recommends instructional procedures and classroom activities. Maintains that studying folktales can increase children's awareness of moral and social issues. (CFR)

Presents a five-hour simulation designed for secondary social studies students that focuses on the civil war in the former Yugoslavia. Describes necessary materials, a recommended time frame, and a five-day instructional plan. Includes data sheets about individual nations, focus questions, and individual role descriptions. (CFR)

A pharmacy school large-group (110 students) course in pharmacokinetics was designed to incorporate small-group team-based problem solving. The method allows students to learn material through traditional lecture, research the topic further, discuss the information gained, and apply the learning to specific cases in a manner that promotes…

Making books is a creative and enjoyable way to integrate science with other subjects, to extend learning, and to make science relevant to children's lives. Presents successful book-making techniques and procedures. (PR)

Contends that the success or failure of an undergraduate research project can hinge on one or two decisions made at an early stage in the process. Describes a "Snakes and Ladders" board game used to remind students of good and bad research design practices. Includes game rules and a listing of the good and bad practices. (CFR)