Describes an evaluation of the added value of skills methods for preventing smoking with sixth-grade students from two schools. Skills conditions subjects learned problem-solving, self-instruction, and interpersonal communication methods. The article discusses the strengths, limits, and implications of the study for other smoking prevention…

A survey of 58 undergraduate students regarding classroom incidents leading to satisfaction or dissatisfaction examined five factors: teacher affect, teacher task, student process, student outcome, and student evaluation. Satisfactory incidents occurred where features, such as teacher role and classroom climate, were consistently related and not…

Reports results of an Alberta study measuring university supply/labor market demand, imbalances between 1975-1980, comparing graduate starting salaries between 1970-1980, determining evidence of responsive supply behavior by students, and determining adapatation of the "world systems model" to explain social changes affecting the…

Reports on a study of differences in selected behavior of Catholic elementary school children from divorced/separated families as compared to children from intact family structures. Indicates that children of divorce differ most from their peers in interpersonal skills and relationships. Discusses the teacher's role in a student support system.…

The behavior of children from a wide range of family backgrounds was observed in elementary school classrooms several years after program services had been delivered. The results indicated that program participants benefited, particularly in the area of academic learning behavior. (Author/BW)

Reviewed information regarding 215 students referred to school psychologists. Results showed 74 percent were males and one-half were referred while in third through sixth grades. Referral reasons presented by classroom teachers corresponded to the four major characteristics of behavior disorders: conduct disorders, personality disorders,…

Reports figures indicating a rise in teenage suicide in Canada. Shows how the problem is compounded by silence resulting from official and parent reactions and social taboo. Discusses some of the causes of teenage suicide and explains the role of the school and family in suicide intervention and prevention. (SB)

Describes the efforts of a Maryland high school to strengthen its position in the community by means of public service radio messages, a "positive family contact" system that emphasizes positive reinforcement of student achievements, and a weekly newspaper column that acknowledges the contributions of "students, staff members and…

A survey of chief academic officers views on changes among college students is presented that includes information on students' academic preparation, student attitudes and behavior, trends in instruction, and student services. Data were compiled by John Minter Associates. (MLW)

Teachers who took a training course in classroom behavior were observed by external raters as more emotional, warm, and appreciative than those who were not trained. (Author/DEP)

This four-page issue brief summarizes findings from Mathematica's evaluation of Teach For America. The researchers found that TFA teachers outperformed non-TFA teachers in the same schools in math and achieved the same results in reading. However, TFA teachers also reported greater challenges in managing their classrooms. TFA and non-TFA teachers…

Knowing how to interest and motivate pupils is a skill, which separates the "great" teachers from the mediocre. This book will inform and inspire staff and give them confidence in dealing with pupils who are not naturally "teacher pleasers." The book explains: (1) how personality affects learning styles; (2) suggests assessment tools and…

This report identifies core principles and best practices for schools and communities to use in creating, practicing, enforcing, and assessing expectations for all students, enabling them to develop as ethical, responsible, and involved citizens. The report defines the attributes of a healthy and sustainable process for schools and communities as…

The purpose of this paper is to explain how origami can be used to foster life and academic skills in struggling students in rural schools. At-risk students often lack the social, behavioral, study, self-management, academic and life skills to face their daily challenges. This paper describes: (1) benefits of origami and its integration into…

In spring 1999, the Palm Beach County, Florida, Public Schools implemented an after school program designed to improve students' behavior, school attendance, and academic achievement. The program targeted 63 at-risk students in a high-needs elementary school. Students were identified as having behavioral and/or academic problems. Participants…