Form and function of reinforcement is discussed with attention to the focus for feedback. Case studies of five junior high schools provide data and field notes for a tentative analysis of the determinants of reinforcement including organizational factors and types of computer assisted instruction applications. (Author/MBR)

A self-monitoring treatment (via taped cues) was used to increase time-on-task behavior of two emotionally disturbed and three mentally retarded elementary grade children, all of whom were easily distracted from class activities. In general, the program resulted in improved attention to task and academic productivity. (CB)

This study investigated the effect of task difficulty, evaluation condition, and sex of subject on continuing motivation of fifth-graders. Results indicted higher return rates for teacher evaluation and for boys over girls. Boys returned to a challenging task more than girls did, whereas girls preferred the easier task. (Author/JAZ)

University counseling center clients read one of six counselor descriptions generated by crossing counselor gender with counselor sex roles (feminine, androgynous, and masculine), then rated their willingness to see the counselor for a variety of concerns. Feminine sex role was rated highest for personal concerns, masculine for assertiveness…

History fairs are an excellent way to recognize student achievement and to generate an interest in history. Described is a History Day fair that encouraged students in grades 6-12 to research and prepare papers, projects, and media presentations on a historical theme and to have them judged by history professionals. (RM)

This experiment explored the mediating functions of attributional and self-efficacy variables on achievement outcomes for skill training treatments offered in conjunction with attributional feedback. Children who were identified as learned helpless and deficient in division skills received training on division operations either through modeling…

Defines and discusses the operating principles of the Explorative-Creative Way of language teaching, an approach in which the teacher encourages the students to investigate the target language and to tap the linguistic resources available to them in order to produce a maximum number of new meaningful utterances. (SED)

A study of attitudes toward institutional promotion policy and practices among 104 faculty at an Australian university revealed that staff perceive their institution as actively encouraging research, and especially publication, through rewards and incentives but paying only lip service to teaching, without adequate rewards or recognition. (MSE)

Exploration of concepts crucial to development of new computer-based learning environments focuses on process rather than product and the computer's ability to record, represent, and communicate the underlying process. Cognitive, pedagogical, and sociological issues relevant to creation of learning environments in five domains (empowering…

Merit pay for teachers is fine in principle, but teachers must have a role in evaluation. The problems that concern merit teaching exit between teacher and principal. It is a question of checks and balances; administrators will play favorites as will teachers. (MLW)

A non-recursive model was developed to assess the degree of reciprocity between satisfaction and performance as indicated by grade point average. Data from students at a single research university were used. The causes of satisfaction differ for men and women. (Author/MLW)

To understand the wellsprings of faculty energy and commitment, 50 professors designated by their presidents as faculty leaders were asked to write a brief statement in response to questions dealing with meaning and motivation in their work. These questions covered the structure of academic careers, the changing work environment, etc. (MLW)

This study investigated a causal model of second language learning, in particular, three situation-specific constructs: language class discomfort, language class risktaking, and language class sociability. Findings indicate that discomfort negatively predicted risktaking and sociability, risktaking positively predicted participation, and…

It is argued that it is as necessary to gauge a student's interest in and respect for his/her learning as his/her skills and knowledge. Definitions of beliefs, attitudes, disposition, and motivation as they relate to measurement are proposed, and two measurement methods--systematic observation and a consequences questionnaire--are presented. (MSE)

Describes a study conducted with undergraduate psychology students to determine if the relationship between expectancy measured shortly before an examination and subsequent achievement can be accounted for by the possible common antecedents of previous achievement, past effort expenditure, and perceived ability. (MBR)