One of the greatest challenges in education today is to adapt and respond to a linguistically and culturally diverse world, and to combat social disintegration and discrimination. Participatory and collaborative action research represents an empowering and emancipatory approach to this challenge because the "target groups" become…

The role of educational technologies in improving educational practices and outcomes has been criticized as over-hyped and insignificant. With few exceptions, the state of education has changed less than expected as a result of tools such as computers and the Internet. To a considerable degree, this is due to the minor role educational technology…

In this article, three theoretical perspectives are used to extend Bulterman-Bos's (2008) argument regarding a clinical approach to education research. First, three intellectual virtues identified by Aristotle--"episteme," "techne," and "phronesis"--are related to the requirements of the "pure" education researcher, the skilled practitioner, and…

This article presents the author's response to comments on her article, "Will a Clinical Approach Make Education Research More Relevant for Practice?", which focused on the question of whether a clinical research practice might make education research more relevant for practice. The characteristics of a clinical approach are: (1) an overlap in the…

Three issues emanating from the Bulterman-Bos article (2008) form the core of this commentary. First, the issue of relevancy is addressed from the standpoint of action research and other forms of practitioner inquiry. From this perspective, the divisions between the cultures of university and school are addressed both ways: Each can potentially be…

This article identifies six core elements that have empirical support and should be included in instructional programs for students with autistic spectrum disorders. They are: (1) individualized supports and services; (2) systematic instruction; (3) comprehensible/structured learning environments; (4) specialized curriculum content; (5) functional…

This paper introduces student-centered learning, provides examples of postsecondary student-centered learning practices, and identifies problems and issues associated with adopting, adapting, scaling, and advancing technology-based student-centered learning environments. (DB)

This article summarizes the journal's special issue on intervention research for students with learning disabilities with emphasis on common themes in the preceding papers: (1) modeling in instruction, (2) the provision of feedback, (3) instruction for generalization, and (4) teacher preparation. (Contains one reference.) (DB)

Describes the policy changes in early childhood development in South Africa since 1994. Examines changes in Norther Province based on discussions by a group of teacher-practitioners and highlights the actions necessary to develop and implement the policies. Discusses the methodology of the change process, with particular reference to the role of…

This anthology was written by a group of Kansas educators and others with knowledge about the special needs of children with severe disabilities and deaf/blindness. The book was created to describe effective educational practices for these students identified by research and to serve as a resource for teachers and parents. The anthology is divided…

The goal of this book is to increase the usefulness and relevance of research to educational practice, particularly in the area of improving student learning. It proposes and describes an experiment: the establishment of a Strategic Education Research Program (SERP). The SERP plan calls for a large-scale and sharply defined program of research,…

This article summarizes the journal's special issue on educational intervention research for students with learning disabilities and identifies the following common themes in the preceding papers: (1) effective teaching, (2) the match between teacher and learner characteristics, (3) flexibility in delivery and use, and (4) teacher and student…

Explores the opportunities and problems inherent in the working relationship between sociologists and educators. Examines the ways that educational sociologists can participate in linking research, policy, and practice. Posits three requirements for productive collaboration between educators and sociologists: multilingualism, mutual programs, and…

The purpose of this literature review is to look at brain research and its effect on educational practice. For the last several years, educators, parents and policymakers have become increasingly interested in the potential role of positive early childhood experiences in promoting a child's emotional and intellectual well-being (Ellison, 2001).…

Presents seven brief essays addressing recent research efforts and policy initiatives aimed at reforming the history curriculum. Notes that policy recommendations are rarely informed by research on either historical or pedagogical thinking. Authors include Keith C. Barton, Matthew T. Downey, Terrie L. Epstein, Linda S. Levstik, Peter Seixas,…