Two primary lines of investigation are involved in this study of elementary school teacher effectiveness. The first focuses on individual differences in students and how these affect teacher expectations, attitudes, and behavior, and the process involved in the formation and change of expectations and attitudes. The overwhelming conclusion that…

This collection of papers suggests ways to foster the success of all students in schools and classrooms, focusing on the complex, changing identities young people manage while confronting the challenges of school. The papers are: "Introduction: Why Identity Matters at School" (Michael Sadowski); (1) "Identity and Possibility:…

The report is a comprehensive survey of incoming freshmen at the University of Maryland at College Park (UMCP). The profile includes 2493 new students surveyed during their summer 1997 orientation. The student make-up included 53 percent males and 47 percent females; 64 percent were Caucasian and 36 percent were from minority ethnic or racial…

This study investigated common themes in preservice teachers' case writing, noting how the thematic content diversified since teacher educators first added case writing to the course agenda. The study examined contributing factors that influenced expansions in preservice teachers' case writing perspectives and theme variations in preservice…

This curriculum plan for educators is a three-credit undergraduate course that focuses on recognizing and eliminating gender bias in teacher attitudes and behavior. The purpose of the curriculum plan is to integrate gender equity awareness, skills, and competencies into teacher preparation programs. As a result, preservice educators will have an…

This guide for novice teachers includes ten sections: (1) "A Knowing Colleague as Counsel...About the Policies, Practices, and Politics!" (proactively seek a mentor); (2) "A Place Called 'My Room' for Students To Grow, To Groom, and To Zoom!" (create a climate that fosters growth and pride); (3) "A Method for Managing 1,500 Decisions: On Your…

This book highlights one school district's attempt to desegregate its schools according to socioeconomic status, focusing on a study of 10 fourth-grade classrooms. The study uncovered the ways that teachers' leadership styles, tasks, and reward structures affected students' peer relations. The 9 chapters focus on: (1) "Socioeconomic Desegregation…

This collection of papers on HIV/AIDS prevention and education in rural communities includes: "Understudied HIV/STD Risk Behaviors among a Sample of Rural South Carolina Women: A Descriptive Pilot Study" (William L. Yarber, Richard A. Crosby, and Stephanie A. Sanders); "Risk and Co-Factors among Women Related to HIV Infection and…

This report summarizes a study of Americans' attitudes toward teaching, educational opportunity, and school reform. Surveys of 2,501 adults nationwide indicate that Americans unequivocally support the guarantee of free public education and consider improvement in fundamental areas of student behavior and academic performance essential. Greater…

North Carolina's 1999 Governor's Task Force on Youth Violence and School Safety produced a report that generated 10 action items and 6 main recommendations. This research bulletin presents a follow-up to the task force's efforts. It begins by providing background information about the task force and putting its work into context. It then discusses…

This book presents ways to address the problems of bias, harassment, and violence in schools. Part I covers the dynamics and effects of bias, harassment, and violence. In three chapters, it discusses the extent of the use of degrading language and slurs by students; the process of escalation from minor insult to violence; what happens when…

This book provides advice intended to empower new teachers with the tools necessary to feel prepared, confident, and comfortable and to succeed, maintain enthusiasm, and remain committed to teaching. Among the numerous strategies and survival skills it promotes are time and stress management, effective organization, quality lesson plans, and…

This report describes an intervention program for improving social skills. The targeted population comprised a kindergarten, second grade, second grade physical education, and trainable mentally handicapped primary aged classes. All sites were located within 60 miles of a major metropolitan area. The lack of social skill development was documented…

This applied dissertation was designed to decrease confrontation among African American females at an alternative evening school for high school students who were at least 2 years behind grade level academically. The program involved developing a small group guidance curriculum, creating and videotaping role playing scenarios, arranging for…

Examines court decisions in 1995 concerning college and university tort liability in accidents. Issues addressed include defects in premises, inadequate facility maintenance, school policy concerning safety, recreational activities on campuses, student field experience programs, campus activities involving children, operation of campus housing,…