Synthesizes current thought in neuropsychology, philosophy of cognition, and science education. Suggests that dualistic views and those based solely on biological structural-functional analyses may be insufficient to explain the active role of the learner. Presents 10 principles of neurocognition as a context for analysis of learner-centered…

Presents a case study in which two 8th grade students developed knowledge for modeling a physical device called a winch. Demonstrates that students have and can use criteria for evaluating algebraic representations. Explains how students can develop modeling knowledge by coordinating criteria with knowledge for generating and using algebraic…

Advocates a constructivist approach to learning mathematics in which children are given ample time to think and reflect about numbers and exchange ideas with peers. Teachers should construct a classroom environment in which children invent methods to solve problems. Every child's thinking must be assessed in order to guide each to a higher level…

Discusses learning theories, standards for school library media programs, and two related documents: a revision of "Information Power," and new "Information Literacy Standards." Implementation is discussed, and resources for standards in other content areas are also included. (LRW)

Describes multiple intelligence instruction (MII), based on the theory that humans possess seven intelligences: visual, musical, logical-mathematical, intrapersonal, interpersonal, linguistic, and bodily-kinesthetic. Argues that current methods of assessment are deficit-based and, therefore, not helpful in assessing MII students. Describes an…

An overarching learning theory is presented, based on assumptions that all learning includes (1) external learner-environment interaction and internal acquisition and elaboration and (2) cognitive, emotional, and social dimensions. The framework depicts four types of learning: cumulative, assimilative, accommodative, and transformative. (Contains…

A secondary analysis of the National Assessment of Educational Progress was conducted to provide insight into ethnic differences in 12th-grade math achievement. Variables central to the three conditions model of achievement accounted for 45%-50% of the variance. The implications of these results for theories of ethnic differences and for reform…

Narratives of three women experiencing crisis suggest the following: (1) crisis context presents conditions incompatible with transformational education; (2) adult basic education's structure of mastery or absolute knowledge is an obstacle; and (3) the fragmented self is a more appropriate organizational structure for the concept of meaning…

Self-definition plays a crucial role in complex learning. This article offers a framework for making identity central in learning to promote learning and self-authorship. Four examples of this framework in multicultural education, community development, academic advising, and teaching offer student affairs educators a foundation for leading…

Compares "associationist" instructional theory and standards with constructivist instructional theory and standards. Argues that constructivist standards should be used to help create a culture of high quality based on high expectations in urban schools. Provides two examples: Central Park East Secondary School (CPESS) and the Philadelphia's…

Outlines a model of mathematical understanding as a whole, dynamic, nonlinear, recursive growing process, entailing "folding back" for the reconstruction of inner level knowing. Presents examples from seventh graders' work. Discusses teacher awareness of student level of understanding, and implications for development of mathematics…

Based on current second-language acquisition theory and research, it is proposed that curriculum planning and teaching activities be guided by three issues: supplying students with optimum comprehensible input; providing interaction in real communicative contexts; and increasing motivation to seek additional input and interactive opportunities.…

Proposes a model of critical thinking in science with affective (dispositions), cognitive (knowledge, basic skills, and higher order skills), and behavioral (contextualized or generalized behaviors) components. Describes the links and mutual influences between the environment and these components. Emphasizes the role of affectivity in the…

Discusses the relationship between theory and application in the field of educational technology. The relationship of technology to education is examined, including the role of the teacher; the theory and practice of instructional design is discussed; and the importance of integrating design with instructional implementation is emphasized. (60…

Theories--based on concretizing, assimilation, and structuring--of the use of metaphors in learning are assessed. Each is shown to predict different patterns of inferences and errors in problem solving. An experiment with 43 undergraduates involving college lectures indicated that structuring may provide the most important function of metaphors in…