Statistical analysis of the relationships between three schooling outcomes and family background in 13 Latin American countries employing data from 1996 study. Finds that while the relationship between schooling outcomes and family background varies among countries, the most effective schools share similar characteristics, for example, high levels…

Examines the early childhood and primary learning environments and developmentally appropriate practices in light of the findings of brain research in the mid to late 1990s. Focuses on how the brain works, creating the optimal learning environment, developing classroom learning centers, and presenting meaningful learning experiences. Identifies…

This article discusses a comprehensive program for gifted students with learning disabilities in Maryland's Montgomery Country Public Schools (MCPS). MCPS has developed special self-contained classes for gifted students with severe learning disabilities while those with moderate and mild disabilities receive gifted instruction and services in…

This article discusses the increase in the rate and intensity of child maltreatment, defines the types of maltreatment (physical, sexual, psychological and neglect), their possible effects on learning, and school interventions that can assist the children with learning disabilities. The need for a structured classroom environment is emphasized.…

Using questionnaires and the Relationship Dimension Subscales of the Classroom Environment Scale, compares attitudes of 1,174 junior high and senior high school girls and boys about social studies and social studies teachers. Finds that girls enjoy social studies more than boys when they have female teachers. Posits reasons for this finding and…

Functional, constructive, dramatic, and social play behaviors were observed in two classes of hearing-impaired kindergarten children--one using sign communication and the other using oral communication. Children in the sign-based class demonstrated higher levels of social play behavior and lower levels of aggression than the other class.…

Analyzes a collaborative activity, both as a traditional classroom event and as a collaborative event. Finds that, even when the activity is explicitly collaborative and students are experienced collaborators, patterns of traditional classroom discourse dominate their communicative choices. (MG)

Maintains that creativity is enhanced when students are given responsibility for their own learning. Identifies factors necessary for the fostering of creativity: computers, sound as the language of instruction, and a supportive classroom environment. Focuses on the necessity of maintaining a supportive environment, and suggests ways to create a…

This theme issue is devoted to teachers and teaching and includes nine articles on teacher communication, classroom environment, teacher effectiveness, student learning styles, successful programs, teacher commitment, cooperative learning, teaching strategies, agricultural education in the middle school, teacher behavior, and classroom management.…

Focuses on the oral language that accompanies the writing process of Native American students. Finds that of all the oral language observed during composing, 90 percent of that language was related to the fact that writing was taking place. (MG)

Reviews the literature supporting cooperative learning as a means to promote social and cognitive growth among handicapped children in a classroom environment. In an analysis of three studies, cooperative learning strategies were shown to increase the chance that mainstreamed children would be accepted by classmates and show positive gains in…

Examines the teaching and learning conditions in select developing countries. Expounds on teachers' levels of qualifications, working conditions, training, and teaching environment. Assesses pupil retention levels and achievement, curriculum, books, and materials. Compares urban and rural schools, suggests ways to improve teaching and learning…

Discusses study that was designed to examine the effects of microcomputers on the ecology of secondary special education classrooms and explains the MICROS Observation System, which was used to collect observational data. The effects of microcomputer use on student behavior and teacher behavior are described. (25 references) (Author/LRW)

A study, involving 80 Israeli junior high mathematics classrooms, sought to establish some of the variables related to the classroom learning environment, with emphasis on teacher credentials. Results indicate that observed teaching effectiveness was the most powerful and most consistent predictor of the mathematics classroom learning environment.…

Reviewed is some of the literature concerning the development of sex stereotypical behaviors of boys and girls in mathematics. Early socialization in the home and in school are discussed. Suggestions for creating an unbiased atmosphere at school are suggested. (25 references) (CW)