The Oregon System in Mathematics Education tries to rid teachers of their long-standing fear of math and help them see it as a useful, problem-solving tool. (Editor)

This article examines older adult preferences for instrumental vs. expressive learning activities. Course title selections and actual learning activity information were analyzed. Interviews with 256 Nebraskans, 55 or older, (average age was 68.11) were obtained. It was concluded that more instrumental learning opportunities must be made available…

Introduces the concept of formal and informal groups in a variety of settings, including the classroom. Argues that informal group processes in the classroom do make a difference in the accomplishment of formal learning goals and provides suggestions for legitimizing communication about student feelings and for giving to students formal…

Describes a behavior-modification program used effectively with elementary school underachievers (Grades 3-6). (HMV)

The purpose of this study is to investigate the problems associated with learner motivation in Web-based instruction, in particular in self-directed online learning environments. This study is interested in identifying and exploring what motivate or demotivate learners from completing a self-directed online course, which have implications for…

The purpose of this qualitative study done in 2003 was to determine which factors motivated the adult learners who were employed full time to pursue and complete a college degree at a Southern California university complex. Using a structured survey which included Q-Sort and Likert Scale methodologies followed by in-depth interviews, the study's…

Malcolm Knowles, in his theory of adult learning (1972, revised 1980), presents adults as motivated, self-directed learners. Basically, once a person starts seeing himself or herself as an adult, he or she has an expectation of being independent in decision-making, valuing personal experience, and desiring respect. Courses, curriculum, and…

Methods used for teaching children to read could be the whole language approach, or the phonics approach, or maybe a balance of both. This paper is a discussion of appropriate and effective teaching practices through interesting methods such as music, the use of culturally diverse materials, and the role of toys and television as they relate to…

Argues forcefully that the assignment of grades can have more deleterious than beneficial effects in education. The theme that grading should be abolished is developed by answering a series of commonly asked questions about evaluation of students. (JR)

Studied the effect of collecting, correcting, and grading homework on student mastery of course content and the student activity and attitudes toward homework assignments. Concluded that there were no significant effects on academic achievement and students probably did not realize the importance of feedback in their homework activity. (CC)

Summarizes two recent research studies dealing with beginning reading behaviors of low socioeconomic level kindergarten children: (1) the effects of race of story book character on story recall and identification of Black and White children; and (2) the effects of different reinforcers and operant level on reading task behavior. (JM)

A motive to succeed (Ms) is defined in terms of one's academic self concept (Sa) and confidence in that self concept (Sc). (Author)

The emotional climate of a classroom is an important factor in the proper use of media and teachers should encourage students to develop their own sense of responsibility when they use slides, projectors, and tape recorders. Author discusses skills children need for using such media. (Author/RK)

Illustrated article describing an educational park facility designed to make each student proud to identify with his chosen trade, to understand its relevancy in a cooperative effort, and to realize its importance to the community -- through the use of bold color and supergraphics.'' (Author/EA)