Uses a Vygotskian framework to examine students' (n=26) use of tools in a ninth-grade physical science classroom during a unit on electric circuits. Indicates that conceptual progress may be hindered by students' need to first understand the tools in terms of everyday application. Advocates selection of laboratory tools and activities that match…

Presents arguments for an emphasis on listening comprehension in language learning and teaching. An explanation of how listeners use strategies to enhance the learning process is presented with a review of the existing research base on how second-language listening is taught. Pedagogical recommendations are presented as well as examples of…

Examines H. G. Wells's ideas about a World Brain and a new world encyclopedia organization that would change universities and systems of learning. Highlights include politics and notions of social repression and control, the nature and organization of knowledge, and current theorizing about global information systems and emerging intelligence and…

Claims many changes in education are based on political agendas and popular educational philosophies rather than solid research findings. Suggests reform would benefit from the kind of practitioner/researcher relationship that operates in other fields such as agriculture and medicine. Provides guidelines for effective research. (NH)

Considers how to integrate theory, research, and practice in human performance technology. Discusses human learning; market pull versus knowledge push; using inquiry to connect theory, research, and practice; constructivist examples; behavioral and cognitive approaches; and differences in research methodologies. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Focuses on the importance of more closely understanding the ways in which faculty foster and perpetuate classroom authority, and ways in which learners become entangled in unconscious transference. Uses a psychoanalytic model to discuss the implications of traditional classroom power relationships between teachers and students. Suggests strong…

Argues that viewing learning from a biological basis is particularly fruitful for technology-and-science education. Demonstrates the potency of this new view of learning in making sense of the findings of empirical studies of technology-and-science learning, modeling technology-and-science education as a set of five natural and contiguous acts.…

Shows that before students can begin doing research and inquiry on their own, they need to experience extensive nonfiction reading and writing and learn to generate questions and find resources. Offers a list of strategies and ideas that will help prepare the teacher, students, parents, and other teachers for the inquiry process. (SR)

Reports on a small-scale study designed to estimate science teachers' awareness of findings derived from research in science education and other branches of educational research. Focuses on experienced science teachers in Portugal who were following advanced professional training programs that usually lead to Masters' degrees in science education.…

Indicates the importance of the interdisciplinary approach in teaching and learning. Recommends using grids in curriculum design for the integration of concepts such as art, math, and science. (YDS)

Explains the phrase "What is Assessment?". Lists the principles of assessment and includes standards and goals, trust, total campus commitment, constant and continuing assessment, and incorporation of assessment research into practice and policy as the ideal components of assessment practice. Recommends the use of scoring rubrics for student…

Describes model for teaching group dynamics to enhance generalization of learning from classroom to workplace by using the following learning processes: viewing videotapes of classroom interaction; maintaining a journal; participating in outdoor experiential course; role playing in simulation games; and applying sociodramatic techniques. After…

A focus on people--whether community members, students, historical figures, or fictional characters--and their motivations brings excitement to learning. A community's experts on everything from jazz music and Chinese tapestries to building construction can help students move inside history and other subjects. (MLH)

Comparison of the conceptions of learning of 60 nursing students and 54 auto mechanic students, elicited in individual interviews at program beginning and end, found qualitative differences and similarities. Differences within an educational program were fewer than those among students participating in different programs. Among students within a…

Recent research has revealed remarkable data about the intricacies of brain-based learning and the integration of this knowledge into the academic setting. Prudent educators can create a brain-friendly classroom by developing an emotionally and physically safe environment, using laughter and simple exercises to eliminate mental cobwebs, creating…