Sixth to eighth grade students received points based on weekly quiz performance and a base score derived from a pretest and adjusted to reflect actual weekly performance. The points were reported in a weekly newsletter. Students in experimental classes achieved more on a final standardized test than did control classes. (Author/GDC)

The article briefly explains three stages of small group development and suggests ways to apply existing knowledge of group dynamics to outdoor education settings. The article explains the role of expectation, conflict, and stress in behavior change that occurs in the context of extended field excursions. (SB)

High, neutral, and low statements of success expectancy were paired with positive and negative success feedback statements in a reading comprehension experiment. Incongruent combinations such as high success expectancy--negative feedback produced higher comprehension than congruent combinations. Results were interpreted by arousal and attribution…

The development of the Estimate of Self-Competence Scale is described. The instrument was designed to measure generalized expectancy of task success. Reliability and validity data are provided. (Author/JKS)

First through sixth graders rated behaviors of teachers as they would treat a hypothetical male high or low achiever. Differential treatment was perceived across one-fourth of the teacher behaviors. In some cases, grade level and perceiver characteristics colored perceptions. (Author/RD)

Discusses how cultural discontinuity between white teachers and black students influences teachers' perceptions and expectations of students. Notes a disproportionate overrepresentation of black students in mentally retarded or special education classes, and underrepresentation in gifted programs. Argues for more African-American teachers,…

Discusses issues related to dual attendance of school and before- or after-school programs, including structural differences between school and child care, transitions between two programs, recognition of children with adjustment difficulties, easing of the adjustment process, the importance of communication, and implications for the curricula and…

Summarizes a workshop exploring quality in education and training. Describes a role-playing exercise in which small groups of teacher participants planned and delivered a short teaching and learning session, observed and reported on the planning process and differences in learner and teacher expectations, and derived a list of points to ensure…

Examines whether computer networks can empower second-language learners, focusing on three aspects: autonomy, equality, and learning skills. The article concludes that these networks, appropriately used, can empower students, and provides pedagogical suggestions for effective computer networking in the second- and foreign-language classroom. (66…

Examines the differences between language teaching in private and public institutions in the same country. The study uses learners' reports on how they are taught and how they learn new English vocabulary as a guide to examine the differences between the two prevailing pedagogical environments in Greece--private institutes of foreign languages and…

A survey of 273 Australian educators from special and regular primary schools found greater acceptance for the inclusion of a child with a physical disability than for a child with an intellectual disability, and a rapid decline in acceptance for both categories as the degree of disability increased. (CR)

Discusses the unique challenges of the first year of teaching. Challenges include over enrollment, long hours, and overload of paperwork. Gives advice on how new teachers can overcome problems by creating alliances within the spiritual community, working with administrators, and taking care of their health. (MZ)

Surveys of 111 faculty at 3 campuses of New Mexico State University indicated that respondents had medium-high levels of information literacy and realized that students needed information literacy education. However, respondents were not committed to promoting information literacy in students. Recommendations for promoting Latino students'…

Connects some of the author's classroom discoveries and reflections--made during 10 years of practitioner research--to educational literature. Explains transformations in a classroom which resulted when the teacher focused on "good things." Proposes that teachers make discoveries when they pay attention to details. Notes that teachers also make…

Offers tips on how to study effectively at home for class and how to benefit from class time. Discusses teacher expectations of the foreign-language learner. (Author/CK)