The effects of problem solving and peer collaboration as two instructional methods advocated by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) were evaluated for enhancing mathematics achievement, motivation, and self-concept of 104 low- achieving third and fourth graders. There were significant positive effects for both approaches, as…

Discusses the evolution of the educational system in India, developments in new communication technologies, and plans by the open and distance education system to develop educational networks. Policies and programs adopted by the Distance Education Council are outlined. (AEF)

This case study describes use of apprenticeship opportunities in a collaborative writing context with two primary grade students with multiple disabilities in an inclusive setting. Analysis of written work and verbal interactions revealed the collaborative peer approach fostered active and constructive participation by both students. (Contains…

Two evaluations of video programs that involved groups of learners interacting with LaserVision software are presented. One concerns counselling skills for student teachers. The other is a geography simulation program. Program structure, group interaction, and the role of the instructor are discussed. Learners in both studies found the visual…

Results using 165 students show a greater difference on the Test of Integrated Process Skills occurred in the setting where cooperative learning and microcomputer-based laboratories were used. (PR)

Describes a pilot curriculum at the Peddie School, an independent preparatory school in rural New Jersey, designed to achieve cost-effective school reform through technology. Elements include student use of laptop computers, cooperative learning, block scheduling, off-campus studies, and interdisciplinary units. The school's information network is…

Describes a National Science Foundation (NSF) project that addresses changing the science curriculum and how science is taught in college classrooms to increase participation of all students in science, especially women. Preliminary results based on qualitative and limited quantitative data suggest that the project is meeting its objectives.…

Zero-tolerance policies, security systems, peer mediation, and other "supervisory" violence-prevention measures ignore the classroom's potential for forming or modifying student behavior. When properly trained in cooperative-learning methodology, teachers can reinforce positive social behaviors and encourage tolerant attitudes on a daily…

Discusses the importance of the relational nature of school librarianship to meet the affective and social needs of children and youth. Topics include psychological dimensions of library-student interaction; library activities that foster cooperation and independence; communicating feelings and attitudes; barriers in seeking help at the reference…

Describes the ways one middle school teacher works with students to develop the unique culture of the class. Considers the use of collaborative projects, and notes how the classroom functions as a setting for the developing social group in which experience is continuous and intertextual and communication is referential. (JPB)

Direct observational data on 17 general educators and on eight matched pairs of middle school students with and without behavior disorders (BD) was collected. Teachers' use of student-centered practices versus teacher-directed classroom management practices was associated with positive and task-appropriate student behavior, but only for students…

Examines the history of the homeschooling movement in the United States, the reasons parents choose to homeschool their children, the general profile of homeschoolers, and the responsibility that public libraries and librarians have in serving the homeschooling population. Suggests ways librarians can better serve homeschoolers. (AEF)

Forms part of a themed issue describing "Parent-Kid-Teacher Investigators," a program in which parents, children, and teachers gather regularly to use language and literacy for action research projects. Explains the philosophy, assumptions, and intentions behind the program, and research that supports it. Offers action examples of how each belief…

Finds that collaborative group work among pre-service elementary teachers stimulated increased levels of discussion and fostered deeper conceptual understanding than did traditional instructional methods. Discusses implications for science education in Fiji and similar places. (Contains 37 references.) (Author/WRM)

Foreign language instruction is known to develop better critical thinking skills in children. Therefore, the teaching of foreign languages should be promoted so that "all" students may attain better creative, divergent, critical, and analytical thinking skills. Research done in past years on cooperative learning models has consistently shown that…