Two approaches to the content of thermodynamics were used in an introductory college physics course: traditional organization and organization based on Ausubel's learning theory. The influence of these organizations on engineering student's (N=58) cognitive structure was investigated using a word association test analyzed through hierarchical…

Ideas for enhancing learning from work experience are described, including work-learning progressions, learning descriptions, project development, linking work experience and courses, and educational debriefing. The importance of combining an effective work experience with other parts of the educational program is emphasized. (Author/SF)

Suggests and lists sources of information on reading instruction that discuss the promotion and enrichment of the interactive learning process between children and their environment based on principles underlying the cognitive-field theory of learning. (MKM)

Social sensitivity is discussed as a factor in effective teaching and an investigation, using microteaching, is described. A high degree of correspondence was found between the teacher's standing on social sensitivity and students' and experts' reactions to them and their teaching performance. (Editor/SJL)

This study focuses on the relationship between formal operational reasoning, as defined by Piaget, and the success of physics students, defined by their final examination grades. (SA)

Investigated was the relationship between spatial visualization and cognitive development in a sample of 88 Australian freshman teacher education students. Results support the hypothesis that enhanced capacity to visualize is an outcome of overall cognitive development. (HM)

The development of earth and gravity concepts among 250 schoolchildren ages 8, 10 and 12 from two regions of Nepal was investigated. The children studied five nations located in different parts of the world. (HM)

The Personalized System of Instruction, known as the Keller Plan, is compared with the mastery learning approach. Learning concepts of both are discussed, as well as differences, difficulties, and effectiveness of each method. (SA)

Reconceptualizes a cultural perspective for science education that offers an account of life in a science classroom by characterizing students' experiences as crossing borders between subcultures. Contains 160 references. (DDR)

Argues that the quest to know God evokes fear. Explores the fear of knowing God (which includes the fear of questioning dominant metaphors of God) and the fear of knowing ourselves. Proposes an approach to education that inspires and encourages people to seek to know and respond to God. (MJP)

Presents the results of a study that measured the efficacy of an international economics simulation among undergraduates. The simulation consisted of a macroeconomics game where students develop economic policies for four hypothetical countries. A multiple choice test and posttest questionnaire suggests that classroom games are more effective than…

Defines contextual learning, or presenting new information to students in familiar contexts. Argues that community colleges must be ready for an anticipated increase in contextual learners due to its use in tech prep programs. Describes elements of contextual learning, its application in the classroom, and ways that colleges can prepare for…

Discusses the principles of teaching that can help students to be actively, purposefully engaged in their learning. Describes current innovations in reading, language arts, and mathematics education. Introduces the constructivist principles and teaching practices that can facilitate implementation of current instruction innovations. (MOK)

A collaboration between Outward Bound and Northeastern University allows a diverse group of 6-10 college students to participate in a community service learning project. Describes how the collaboration emphasizes "connected knowing," (the collective construction of knowledge) and reflective inquiry to increase the relevance of the…

Provides an overview to the "Handbook of Research on Social Studies Teaching and Learning," a project sponsored by the National Council for the Social Studies. Identifies the handbook's organization and major topics. Argues this comprehensive review and analysis of social studies educational research promotes improved research, assists…