Aspects of the social theory of J. Habermas with implications for education are reviewed. Habermas had influenced thinking about pedagogical and administrative theory and about the societal role of education and educational practices. According to Habermas, critical social science requires mastery of the analytic and interpretive sciences, not…

The incorrect Humean notion of causation in the standard view of science has had devastating effects on social science research. Alternatively, scientific realism, as illustrated in R. Bhaskar's work, provides a scientific framework for research, incorporates the perceptions and intentions of participants, and advances critical values (i.e.,…

Describes reform of a Chinese vocational teaching program. Emphasizes a teaching structure combining theoretical and practical teaching. Lists prerequisites for an independent teaching system as suitable instructors (usually engineers), equipment for practice, and a transformation of the students' views toward study. Urges revision of teaching…

Tests theoretical perspectives about the effects of employment during high school. Supports a zero-sum model which suggests that working during high school subverts traditional academic goals. Finds no support for the developmental model which claims that employment during school builds character. Acknowledges that working to save money for…

Proposes a theoretical framework for including higher order thinking and problem solving in vocational education. Reviews recent theories of advanced learning, addressing the brain's role in constructing meaning, contextualized learning, and flexible cognition theory. Considers the applicability of hypertext and multimedia for learning complex…

Explores most transformative aspects of critical theory of schooling informed by imperatives of feminist politics of literacies. Feminism is a fundamental discourse for developing a broader notion of democratic struggle and social justice. Feminist theory is central to eliminating sexist, racist, and classist social practices, empowering students,…

A three-year study of graduates of a teacher education program assessed the extent to which education and subject matter coursework predicted teaching performance. Results indicated that coursework in teacher education made a positive difference in teaching performance and was a more powerful predictor of teacher effectiveness than measures of…

Profiles a few of the affinities between pragmatists and scientific realists, and indicates a few dramatic differences dividing these schools of thought. Pragmatic research is driven by anticipated consequences. Scientific realists hope to find the truth about what the world is really like. (SLD)

Argues that G. A. Cziko's conclusions about the inadequacy of mainstream educational research result from misunderstandings of statistical method, philosophy of science, and other topics. Perceptual control theory, which he espouses, may contribute for educational research but its potential does not result from shortcomings of mainstream…

The article provides a history of the status of preservice and inservice teacher education in Ireland from the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922 to the present, noting the role of educational research. It also examines the relationship of teacher education and educational research, focusing on six related themes. (SM)

This review offers a general theory of utilization of educational evaluation and considers factors affecting utilization, including evaluation context factors and evaluator-controlled factors. Special challenges in evaluating programs for gifted students and design shortcomings common in evaluation of such programs are identified. Specific…

It is argued that the current agenda for improving teacher education only seeks to improve the present system. A new, radically restructured approach would train teachers to learn from their experiences, communicate clearly, know their subject matter, integrate ideas into practice, apply learning theory and child development principles, and…

Advocates grounding a tutor training program in research-based theoretical models, such as student development and metacognitive theories. Recommends that tutor training cover student development philosophy, effective communication skills, campus resources, instructional support materials, learning theory/learning styles, metacognitive approaches…

The article offers a critical inspection of the effectiveness of resource room programs in serving students with disabilities. Types of resource models (categorical, cross-categorical, noncategorical, specific skill, and itinerant) are described. Also noted are ethical considerations (segregation versus integration) and suggested improvements in…

The paper addresses the care and treatment of retarded individuals from a historical perspective, and notes the historical and philosophical underpinnings of normalization. It concludes that normalization of lifestyle requires focusing on the betterment of the lives of retarded individuals rather than focusing on the "social address" at which…