Research shows that exposure to local neighborhood violence is associated with students' behavior and engagement in the classroom. Given the social nature of schooling, these symptoms not only affect individual students but have the potential to spill over and influence their classmates' learning, as well. In this study, I use detailed…

Drawing upon standpoint theory and phenomenology, this study chronicles the lived experiences of 16 successful female first-generation students of color as they pursued K-12 schooling and accessed higher education. Findings indicate that a complex set of school, family, peer, and personal factors affected students' lived experiences in their urban…

Research is just beginning to describe with precision determinants of racial and ethnic achievement gaps. Work by Reardon, Kalogrides, and Shores found that factors such as parental income, parental education, and segregation are the strongest predictors of achievement gaps. In this study we expand this line of inquiry to examine the role of…

During the past three years we have been designing and implementing a technology enhanced urban ecology program using geographic information systems (GIS) coupled with technology. Our initial work focused on professional development for in-service teachers and implementation in K-12 classrooms. However, upon reflection and analysis of the…

Greenways are prominent features of many urban landscapes and synthesize several geographic topics: human-environment interactions, urban ecosystems, and the promotion of sustainability within riverine corridors. Greenways are easily accessible and provide an opportunity for students at various grade levels to study interactions across physical…

Defines an ecosystem, an urban ecosystem, and the need for ecosystem-based management. Also, addresses managing the flow of natural cycles through the urban ecosystem, and building new policies that promote positive environmental actions. (LZ)

African American communities are disproportionately subjected to large amounts of environmental pollution and environmental hazards. However, little is known about their environmental concerns, understandings, and values. In the study reported in this paper, 24 African American parents from Houston, Texas were interviewed on their perspectives…

A state bureau of environmental education has developed a master plan, and state funds are allocated to school systems or individual teachers for the development of "exemplary programs or instruction materials." (Author/MLF)

This first of a two-part series presents basic definitions and teaching ideas on landmarks, which were developed by a funded project at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. (SJL)

Describes the work of the Brooklyn Center for Urban Environment (BCUE) which aims at encouraging young people to appreciate the city's built and designed aspects as well as study and care for the islands of green space that help lend harmony to the built environment. (JRH)

This article examines the objectives of environmental planning to rejuvenate old city districts in Hong Kong in relation to their limitations and potential. The prospects of environmental improvement through new institutional framework and legislative measures are discussed. (LZ/Author)

Gentle teaching, empowering children growing up amid poverty and violence, is the only alternative to ineffective coercive teaching. "Decent" teachers are not judgmental, moralistic, or easily shocked; they listen, recognize their biases, are culturally competent, and do not seek to fulfill power needs. (SK)

This guide contains a selected list of urban, environmental, and social problem gaming/simulations. The games included in the list are suitable for a variety of age groups and educational purposes. Each listed game/simulation is accompanied by an identifying statement, the developers of the game, number of players, game time, and source of the…

Provides examples of the benefits of research in urban forestry and examines the gap between the science of urban forestry and practices used by city leaders. (LZ)

Outlines key dimensions of social cohesion, exploring whether societies are facing a new crisis in this area. Examines where contemporary residential neighborhoods fit into social cohesion debates, particularly regarding the interaction between social cohesion and social capital. Outlines key debates over social capital, showing how it can be…