Surveys elementary administrators and social studies teachers in Billings, Montana concerning teaching methods used and those desirable to meet the needs of individual learners. Reports subjects' ratings of a variety of teaching methods and how well these methods address individual differences. (RS)

A small group program designed to improve social interaction between children and their autistic siblings is evaluated. Problem solving, role playing, rehearsal, homework projects, and contingency management procedures are used in group sessions. Results of the observational assessment confirm the feasibility of successful interactional training…

Describes a method for helping autonomous groups work effectively on problem solving without a facilitator. Application in a British part-time course for tutors working with adult learners is described; group dynamics are discussed; evaluation methods are explained; and detailed instructions for using this method are provided in the appendixes.…

Presents a high school unit about the U.S. Industrial Revolution featuring the Boott Cotton Mills of Lowell, Massachusetts. Includes student objectives, step-by-step instructional procedures, and discussion questions. Provides two maps, five illustrations, one photograph, and three student readings. (ACM)

Outlines a year-long study which sought to determine the effectiveness of social skills training on peer acceptance, self-esteem, social attraction, and self-confidence of students with disabilities. Social skills training with these students positively affected their social interactions and involvement with their nondisabled peers. (RJM)

Surveys completed by beginning elementary teachers revealed that one of their greatest concerns was perceived inability to deal with parents. Attempted to apply to real world of parent-teacher conferencing that which is learned by beginning teachers in role-play situation. Suggests counselors use such inservice education with new teachers. (NB)

Describes a lesson plan for a classroom activity in which students research the causes that prevented the usefulness of early nineteenth-century schools. Discusses the project, a town meeting in which students play roles of community members. Includes instructions, follow-up activities, roles, and materials for use in the project and evaluation.…

Discusses the use of feature films in promoting student critical thinking. Proposes using the technique on the elementary, secondary, or college level. Lists possible films and associated questions for discussion. Suggests that role playing could help students develop new perspectives on the films' characters. (SG)

Describes an award winning, multicultural enrichment program for sixth grade students in the District of Columbia public schools. Pairs students with participating foreign embassies in Washington. Includes study of the adopted country's culture, the functions of an embassy, and a mini United Nations in which the students represent their adopted…

Presents a simulation used in a political science course on U.S. foreign policy in which college students role play National Security Council members and government officials during a hijacking incident. Analyzes four groups' responses to the exercise. Suggests the simulation involves students in crisis decision making, developing better…

Examines the effects of job and organization attributes, applicant characteristics, and recruiter characteristics on job applicant attraction to an elementary school teaching position. Forty-eight university education majors (24 with teaching experience and 24 without prior teaching experience) role played the part of job applicant for an…

Advocates enhancing understanding of the present through teaching about the past. Presents units of study that are concept based and interdisciplinary, focusing on life in colonial New England. Includes role play and simulation activities that highlight historical periods and provide children direct experiences. Recreates classroom life in…

Presents secondary lessons on population growth and the social factors that influence it. Provides a simulation scenario in which students decide whether or not to raise the marital age or develop other population control policies. Includes charts, cartoons, and student work sheets. (CFR)

Contends that empirical research using laboratory experimental economics has flourished during the past decade. Discusses how two practitioners of experimental economics integrated their research interests into undergraduate economics education. Describes three computerized exercises and includes samples of student handouts and activities. (CFR)

Unlike traditional objective testing methods, alternative assessments encourage student involvement in real-life problems and challenges. The teacher's role is to help students determine and identify assessment tasks and criteria, participate in ongoing assessment of work in progress, and propose alternative ways to meet criteria. This article…