Discusses the positive transfer of computer-related skills to new computer tasks and reviews transfer-related literature to provide recommendations to facilitate better transfer of students' skills from introductory computer classes to future needs. Topics addressed include course goals, user interfaces, problem solving, and software. (Contains 60…

This paper illustrates how, in the item-response theory framework, collateral information about test items can augment or replace examinee responses when linking or equating new tests to established scales, using data from the Pre-Professional Skills Test for approximately 40,000 examinees. Collateral information can predict item operating…

The study questioned 41 employees with learning or other mild disabilities, their parents, and employers on vocationally related items. A four-factor model--job match and accommodation, social acceptance, work rationalization and family support, and special programs and services--is advanced to explain job success. Results are interpreted in terms…

A model of direct communication in American Sign Language is presented for application in mainstreamed adult education courses. Comparisons of 12 hearing and 11 deaf students enrolled in a mainstreamed word processing class using the suggested client-centered, individual instruction format with limited lecture time showed no significant…

This excerpt from "Managing the Facilities Portfolio: A Practical Approach to Institutional Renewal and Deferred Maintenance" offers higher education business officers a conceptual framework comprising four steps: (1) establish baseline; (2) estimate needs; (3) compare model alternatives; and (4) report to management. (DB)

This study, which applied an instructional model based on Piaget's theory of cognitive development, pragmatics theory of language development, and Mahler's theory of development of interpersonal relationships, found that 49 preschool children with autism did not make less progress than a comparison group of 27 children with other…

Through a review of the literature, looks at instructional and curricular issues related to the student-as-scientist model and the critical nature of the teacher's role in expanding school science activities to include this model. (SM)

Explores what constitutes an explanation for a science teaching event, noting conceptual-analysis-of-teaching and task-analysis approaches. Examples of various categories and distinctions are provided, drawing on data from pre- and postlesson discussions of an experienced teacher's seventh grade science lesson. The Science Teacher Thinking…

Describes a mathematics and science course designed to inspire early childhood education preservice teachers. They learn to interest young children by engaging in the kinds of science and math activities used with young children. These activities arouse feelings, stimulate curiosity, and offer opportunity for engagement. (SM)

C. S. Dweck's achievement goals model was tested by examining relationships between individual differences in achievement-goal tendencies and perceived causality for 123 undergraduates (45 males and 78 females). The stronger each performance-goal tendency, the more unstable and controllable low ability was perceived. Inconsistencies with Dweck's…

Continuing an earlier historical review of educational needs assessment (ENA) in the United States, this article considers certain criticisms of ENA in light of basic assumptions about the process; the relationship between ENA theories and practices; and their impact on schools and students. ENA's role in educational planning and renewal is also…

A system of school process indicators is needed to provide descriptions of educational opportunity, monitor reform, and explain student outputs. A model of school process is proposed, against which problems of definition, measurement, and sampling are identified. Criteria of importance, validity, and cost are considered. (TJH)

Describes an undergraduate, clinical, child psychology course combining classroom, practicum, and guest speaker components. Provides students with an overview of characteristics, clinical theory, and treatment of primary disorders and problems of childhood and adolescence. Attempts to create linkages between academia and practitioners. Evaluations…

The Joint Action Committee of Organizations of and Serving the Visually Handicapped is a coalition of 24 California consumer, parent, and professional organizations; agencies; and product distributors. This article highlights coalition accomplishments in the areas of information dissemination, public policy influence, and public education and…

The work of J. Eccles and others (1983) in proposing an integrative theoretical model of achievement behaviors was extended using data from the Second International Mathematics Study. Strong support was found for the constructs identified by the model as determinants of the intention to take more mathematics courses. (SLD)