Presents a case study that focused on students' perceptions of gender differences in instructional activity and discussion about that activity in physics classes. Data analysis indicates that although teachers may be unaware of gender inequities, students of both sexes are aware of such inequities. Reports that differential language patterns were…

A multimedia module for training college faculty in discussion-leading techniques consists of a computer-based component, demonstration videotape, and practice session. Use of the module with an initial group of teachers has resulted in increased confidence in discussion skills, rearrangement of participants' classrooms, and positive participant…

Examines three anecdotal cases of the teaching of evolution theory in an exploration of the best approaches for teaching about evolution. Three instructional options are presented: (1) readings in natural history, (2) commercially prepared activities, and (3) the use of small-group (peer) discussions. (LZ)

Focuses on two major applications of authentic materials: developing learners' language skills and orienting learners to the application of these skills in possible subsequent activities in the outside world. The article describes experiences in selecting and using authentic materials and in designing and evaluating tasks illustrating such…

Presents a mathematics problem that provoked an excellent classroom discussion concerning the nature of numbers and their relationships. (MKR)

Whole-faculty study groups show promise as a vehicle for integrating initiatives and focusing school improvement efforts on increased student learning. The paper describes the San Diego Unified (City) School District's experiences in developing and implementing successful whole-faculty study groups. The groups increased collegiality and improved…

The intuitive simplicity of probability can be deceiving. Described is a dialogue that presents arguments for conflicting solutions to a seemingly simple problem determining the probability of having two boys in a two-child family knowing that one child is a boy. Solutions contain multiple arguments and representations. (MDH)

The article presents guidelines for creating a thinking environment for children at home. Teachers today have little time to emphasize thinking skills, so parents must make their homes more thoughtful places by encouraging questions, open-mindedness, discussion, and practice time using simple everyday experiences to teach critical thinking and…

An innovative use of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is described. A university-based computer network used for real-time, synchronous discussion in intermediate Portuguese and elementary French classes provides a unique environment for student-student and student-teacher interaction. (11 references) (Author/LB)

Describes the California Assessment Program's (CAP) group performance assessment task. Provides a sample task field test in world history, including written and culminating exercises. Suggests that such assessment exercises are popular with students and provide the teacher with an amalgam of curriculum, instruction, and assessment. (DK)

Describes a pilot project using electronic mail and conferencing in college courses including blind and deaf students. The effectiveness of group interaction is compared to the standard classroom. The use of communication technologies in the design of educational systems to simultaneously transcend physical distance and physical disabilities is…

This play continues a dramatization used in the NCTM videotape Mathematics Assessment: Alternative Approaches. Issues and methods of assessment are discussed from the points of view of the teacher, students, principal, and parents. Methods include portfolios, informal interviews, group projects, and open-ended questioning. (MKR)

At Jefferson Medical College and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, medical ethics case discussions have been implemented successfully in 7 of 17 clinical departments. Success is attributed to broad institutional support, program and format capable of capturing and holding residents' attention, direct involvement of all residency participants,…

Describes a study that compared drawing and discussion as planning activities for writing, to determine the effects of each upon the quality of narrative writing. Reports that, among second and third grade students, the writing quality of the drawing group was significantly higher. (KM)

Describes a project in England in which a class of 9- to 11-year olds enthusiastically and successfully explored the play "Hamlet" by writing about, discussing, performing, and visually interpreting the actual text. The teacher suggests that, with a little creativity, Shakespeare is very accessible to children. (SM)