Explored teachers' verbal motivational strategies, applying a framework derived from expectancy-theory which addresses student motivation for academic tasks. Audio-taped math and literacy lessons of two exemplary second grade teachers showed a high number of comments related to experiences and relatively few related to valuing tasks. Teachers made…

The existence of an Institutional Orientation as a motivation for adult education participation was supported by analysis of data from 90 adult participants in church, community college, and Red Cross educational programs. The church-sponsored group differed significantly in degree of commitment to the institution. (92 references). (SK)

Examines various motivations of adults to learn and to participate in organized educational programs. Identifies factors that encourage or inhibit adult participation in educational programs, and distinguishes between learning motivations related to the self and those related to societal obligations. Contains 24 references. (SV)

The reasons for teaching/learning English in China are examined, followed by a delineation of the obstacles to be overcome and an explanation of the advantages of using a communicative approach. Experiences of foreign teachers in the classroom and Chinese educators' attitudes are discussed. (21 references) (Author/LB)

Techniques for teachers to use in asking questions and encouraging critical thinking in the classroom are offered. Discussion includes components of an effective question and methods for getting students interested, promoting success, and providing useful feedback. (MSE)

Discusses situated learning and virtual reality, focusing on the pedagogical aspects of the technology and its importance in achieving a learning environment which challenges and supports effective learning. (AEF)

A Shakespearean play was taught in a resource room with students with learning disabilities in grades 10 through 12, in a manner that took advantage of the students' learning differences. Questions about "Macbeth" were developed and investigated before reading the play. The experience increased self-esteem and academic motivation. (SW)

People will learn better if they like what they are learning. Computers offer an extensive library of cases, examples, and stories that are easy to access, fun to work through, and tell students what they want to know. One example is the ASK system, a 15-module, self-study, multimedia program that is fun for trainees to use, which should enhance…

Interviews with 12 students each from grades 1 through 4 found students' attitudes could be placed in four categories differing on attitudes toward school learning, homework, and personal learning projects. More students with than without learning disabilities fell into the category which saw almost all learning as an imposition. (DB)

Attempts to define children's (age 8-10) linguistic needs and interests to provide a basis for foreign language syllabus planning. A questionnaire administered to 637 children determined the social and psychological roles children like to play; the topics they prefer to discuss; the functions they most frequently use; and the notions children are…

Dastoor discusses neurolinguistic programing (NLP), a model for understanding human behavior and a set of communication and learning techniques based on the belief that people have preferred modes of acquiring and processing information. Reed explores learner-centered learning. (JOW)

Ten suggestions for fostering motivation in adolescents with learning disabilities include encourage choices; advocate ownership; strive for relevance; give positive and negative feedback; set high, but manageable expectations; encourage activity and interaction; and model--share your enthusiasm for books. (DB)

Because college teaching aims to elevate, not entertain, it must be nourished and appreciated as a pedagogical alchemy mixing facts and feelings, ideas and skills, history and mystery. The current debate on educational reform should focus more on quality of learning experience, and on how to create and sustain it. (MSE)

Students are motivated to the extent that they initiate and sustain meaningful involvement in learning. Theories of motivation suggest that appropriate attention to college students' needs and expectations for success will enhance their involvement and learning. (Author/MSE)

A number of surveys conducted in Wyoming and discussions with 16 adult basic education students determined barriers to and motivation for participation. Results indicate the need for more positive publicity emphasizing socially acceptable reasons for attending; recruitment through support groups; attention to such barriers as child care, funding,…