Reciprocal interactions between teachers and two groups of preschoolers (four autistic, four mildly developmentally delayed) were observed and recorded. Teachers or aides ignored most negative initiations. Although most neutral interactions (e.g., question-answer) were reciprocal, students (especially the autistic group) did not respond…

Identifies verbal teacher immediacy behaviors which relate to increased learning, finding that the impact of both verbal and non-verbal behaviors on learners is enhanced as class size increases. Provides empirical definition of a specific set of low-inference verbal variables which, combined with previously identified nonverbal variables, clarify…

In response to the recent emphasis on communicative skills and simulation in the language class, a new approach brings the techniques of dramatic improvisation into the classroom. (MSE)

Describes a teacher workshop that dealt with the prevalence of sex-role stereotyping and the influence of teachers on children's perceptions of sex roles. Provides detailed workshop agenda with summaries of learning activities designed to heighten awareness of sex-role stereotyping in schools and help teachers examine their own values. (JHZ)

Analysis of instructional strategies associated with interaction-based teaching in a graduate course in higher education pinpoints critical incidents in the course's unfolding and resolution of testing, grading, and evaluation problems and their resolution. Teachers must be ready to share course control and leadership with the students. (MSE)

Describes a study of classroom interaction conducted between 1980 and 1984. Findings include male students are given more attention in classrooms, educators are unaware of the impact of this bias, brief training can eliminate sex bias from the classroom, and increasing equity in the classroom increases teacher effectiveness. Includes 10…

Investigates teacher classroom management communication using Scheflen's context analysis as a descriptive framework. Focuses on the movements or positions that teachers use in managing classroom interaction in an alternative high school class. Suggests hypotheses for future research. (PD)

This journal, which deals with topics in educational research, includes articles written in Spanish (translated here) such as the following: "Management of the Competence of Professional Action (CAP)]" (Benito Echeverria Samanes); "Concepts and Beliefs of Andalusian Secondary School Teachers on Mathematics Assessments"…

Of the 22 million children currently enrolled in U.S. schools, more than 2 million have limited English proficiency. Preschoolers and elementary-age children make up the greatest proportion of the immigrant student population, and many teachers need support in educating these young, linguistically diverse students. This digest reviews proven…

This paper presents and analyzes two examples of classroom discourse which belong to the genre of "talk about texts." Both are extracts from discussions between a small group of primary school students and their teacher (in England) on the topic of short texts of narrative fiction which they have just read together during the…

The proliferation and subsequent devaluation of electronic symbols necessitate a rethinking of classroom discourse. In recent years, "visual literacy" has become an issue among those who feel that the increasingly symbolic orientation of communications compels the writing instructor to address the dynamics of both visual and written…

A qualitative study was undertaken in a bilingual school for the deaf to examine how meaning is negotiated during literacy events in this setting. Analysis was conducted with reference to Vygotsky's theory of the Zone of Proximal Development, similar to the theory of scaffolding, in which one who is more "expert" enables one or more…

This study examined methods of providing language evaluation and remediation services to students with language impairments in the regular classroom in order to focus on authentic classroom-based language and discourse. Evaluation was through observation of routine social uses of dialogue between students and teachers. Remedial strategies involved…

This guide discusses an approach to discipline which focuses on student self-control as opposed to external control imposed by the teacher. After "Introduction: Caring Teachers Can Make a Difference," the ten chapters are: (1) "Setting the Stage for Appropriate Behavior"; (2) "Expectations, Limits and Rules"; (3) "Encouragement, Praise, and…

This tipsheet provides suggestions to help teachers work more effectively with students who are late-deafened. Suggestions include: (1) allow time for the student to introduce himself and discuss possible needs; (2) learn the basics of CART (Computer-Aided Realtime Translation) and other communication options; (3) learn the basics of using…