A discussion of where alternative assessment is going and what its value is suggests that it depends on the desired outcome. The article explains what alternative assessment means, how assessment and curriculum are value-laden, assessment as a perspective on curriculum, and assessment and curriculum as inquiry. (SM)

Involving students and parents in educational decision making is essential to public education based on democratic principles. Educators should conceive of themselves as the primary stewards of the democratic spirit. (SK)

The "Code of Practice," developed in the United Kingdom in consultation with key organizations concerned with students having special educational needs, is discussed in terms of effects of implementation efforts. Positive aspects such as its emphasis on individual programs are identified along with challenges, including lack of resources…

This article views differentiation as the process of identifying, with each learner, the most effective strategies for achieving agreed targets. It presents 10 elements of differentiation in special education, such as differentiation is multidimensional; differentiation is diagnostic; differentiation challenges classroom relationships; and…

Describes the Space Shuttle Commander software package, which utilizes the dynaturtle microworld to teach elementary and middle school students about Newton's laws of motion. Design considerations for computer-based microworlds that represent a compromise between the philosophies of constructivism and direct instruction are presented. (91…

Describes the elements of a democratic education model currently being used in Scottish schools. The model relies on reflective classroom practice, includes both structure and freedom in the learning environment, provides reproductive and productive forms of learning, and furthers the ideal of democracy through everyday classroom practice.…

This paper discusses arguments for the social nature of knowledge construction, the balancing influence of individual knowledge construction, conceptualization of the relative roles of individual and social dynamics in children's learning, important principles of effective instruction, and implications for designing educational programs for…

Describes the educational research community in Great Britain and the methodological principles of inquiry upon which it is based. Explores the crisis that threatens to undermine the growth and development of Centres of Excellence in educational research. Challenges the British Educational Research Association to develop political strategies as a…

An interview with Mario Montessori explores the origins of Cosmic Education and experiences of Montessori and his mother, Maria Montessori, in Kodaikanal, India, during World War II. Their experiences contributed to development of theories regarding the elementary child, the power of imagination, the intuition of a cosmic connection, the dynamism…

Examines the role of education in enhancing the natural spirituality of children. Maintains that when young children are given freedom of choice in activities, their behavior becomes gentle, compassionate, and purposeful. Asserts that children unconsciously build the basic structure of the human personality and that spirituality is evident in the…

Reprint of 1973 letter issued by the Association Montessori Internationale to its members regarding signs that although people have been striving for greater general welfare, individual rights, freedom, and leisure, extending reduced work and more leisure to children will disrupt healthy development. Describes necessary environments for healthy…

Argues that neopragmatism can provide art educators with theoretical perspectives to guide interpretations of works of art, pedagogy, and curriculum. Notes ways in which neopragmatist strategies would open art education to new forms of inquiry. Uses an analysis of Gerhard Richter's "October 18, 1977" to show how neopragmatic pedagogy…

Sets out the current situation for New York City teachers who must deal with increasing numbers of immigrant students. Describes how adapting teacher education to new classroom contexts is being carried out in the Program in Social Studies at Teachers College of Columbia University. Includes a list of related teacher resources. (DSK)

Considers ways that Discipline-Based Art Education (DBAE) has influenced art education, by examining the diffusion of its philosophy and language into the discourse of several national professional meetings. Analyzes several national policy documents and compares selected passages with earlier discipline-based theory. Concludes that DBAE has had a…

Describes school-based service learning at the middle school level and the rationale for implementing service-learning projects. Differentiates various types of projects, provides guidelines and ideas for implementing projects, and describes relevant organizations at the community, state, and national levels. (KB)