Describes the creation of a computer-assisted course in introductory psychology. Discusses cost, availability, and requirements for hardware and software development. Provides a guide for teachers interested in developing such a course. Discusses student projects, a homework checker, exercises, and examinations. Argues that the technology frees…

This paper proposes the use of portfolio assessment practices to evaluate literacy development in students of diverse ability levels. It examines how to assist students in becoming self-evaluators and discusses problems inherent in relying exclusively on end-product assessments. Sample observation forms and student checklists are provided.…

Discusses a pedagogical approach to calculus based on the question: What kinds of problems should students be able to solve? Includes a discussion of types of problems and curriculum threads for such a course. Describes a projects-based calculus with examples of projects and classroom activities. (Author/MDH)

Four ideas for classroom French language instruction are described, including an exercise in selection of passive and active voice, a project in which students prepare transparencies for an oral presentation, an activity in which Italian students develop a tour for French visitors, and a radio broadcast project. (MSE)

Several types of physics activities that use real-world problems to motivate learners, use computers to assist in developing conceptual understandings, connect problem situations to mathematical models, and use the models to analyze other real-world problems are presented. The topics of racing sports, sailing, and damped harmonic oscillations are…

Described is a interdisciplinary unit on space. During the planning of their projects, students become immersed in talking about ideas, writing, designing, and illustrating a space colony. The unit relates science to language arts, social studies, mathematics, art, and music. (KR)

Suggests using city directories to integrate original geographic research into the classroom. Explains that using directories allows students to think geographically, teaches map skills, and provides the basis for field experience. Provides a case study of the ethnic patterns using the city directory of Sacramento, California. Illustrates other…

Offers ways to use postcards as a tool to teach local history. Outlines steps for class projects involving field trips and student research. Incorporates innovative methods to teach a community's visual history in which students utilize a wide spectrum of community resources. Provides tips on how to obtain old postcards. (NL)

Maintains that many educators have recommended that public school students need to develop social action skills and participate in community service programs. Discusses student volunteer participation in community food service programs. Provides recommendations for teachers about developing such programs. (CFR)

Presents calendars for the months of May, June, July, and August that contain problems and projects to be done for almost every day of the month. Provides instructions on how parents can utilize the calendars. (MDH)

Asserts that traditional field study, widely regarded as an essential part of geographical higher education, is under attack because of high costs and poor administration. Describes a case study of an undergraduate program that combines training in field study with research and presentation skills. (CFR)

A high school teacher describes student experiences of meeting resistance when attempting to learn more about community issues or problems. These negative encounters, although causing some anxiety and distress, taught beneficial lessons that enabled students to grow and learn. (LP)

A third-grade teacher and her students used the Foxfire practice of reflection to analyze student projects in reading. Analysis of student comments and levels of participation indicate that elementary-age students are capable of using high-level thinking skills to improve the quality of their work. (LP)

Contends that students in spatial analysis courses generally are familiar with computer use and programs but lack basic computer programing skills. Describes four exercises in which students learn programing using BASIC and dBASE. Asserts that programming exercises help students clarify concepts, understand the rationale behind calculations, use…

Argues that a capstone course in college-level sociology should focus on synthesizing information gained from a sequentially integrated curriculum. Discusses the course organization and content of the sociology capstone course at the U.S. Military Academy. Describes a six-chapter student project that comprises the major course assignment. (CFR)