Addresses the distinction between conceptual and algorithmic learning and the clarification of what is meant by a second-tier student. Explores why novice learners in chemistry and physics are able to apply algorithms without significant conceptual understanding. (DDR)

Examines how four classifications of learning styles--field dependence/independence, holistic/sequential, styles linked to the experiential learning cycle, and "deep" and "surface" learning--relate to curriculum values. Draws on research at Sheffield Hallam University into the learning styles of General National Vocational…

Considers recent research in which peer dialogue has been examined with the purpose of understanding its impact on second language learning. Reviews research from the perspective of a sociocultural theory of mind that claims cognition and knowledge are dialogically constructed. (Author/VWL)

Describes what a methodology for situated action should do for students given problem solving in school settings. Proposes that a methodology for understanding situated action should afford the instructional designer, the methodologist, and the problem solver opportunities to co-construct coupling dynamics that operate on multiple space and time…

Illustrates principles of reaching students who fight or avoid adults by using examples drawn from the writings of Torey Hayden. Presents ten concepts that can serve as guidelines for building relationships with resistant children, and gives excerpts from Hayden's works to illustrate each concept. Demonstrates how books provide teachers with…

Describes a theory of learning in which the brain is seen as a Darwinian machine. Argues that the generative heuristic underlying Darwinism offers considerable value for technology and science education. Contains 33 references. (Author/WRM)

This article applies the concept of mediation to pupils who are or may be gifted as well as to motivational and psychological functions. It uses Feuerstein's theory of Mediated Learning Experience to analyze Renzulli's Enrichment Model for the gifted including underachieving and disabled gifted students and concludes that correct mediation…

Presents a cognitive theory of learning to read and examples of how its theoretical constructs can be measured. Measures of five phonological processing constructs were administered to 161 kindergarten children. Phonological awareness, naming speed, and letter recognition were the most frequent significant predictors of reading achievement in…

This article reviews the life of the educational psychologist, Lev S. Vygotsky, as it affected the development of his ideas about the education of children with disabilities. These ideas include the necessity of considering not only the primary disability but also the secondary, tertiary and subsequent strata affecting the student's learning. (DB)

Describes the author's research on learning and brain activity, which involved more than 5,000 students and faculty members. Explores six stages of learning: (1) preparing to learn; (2) starting to learn; (3) consolidation; (4) branching out; (5) gaining fluency; and (6) continued improving. States that merging educational research with…

Shares insights on community/environment-based learning gleaned from teachers over 30 years. Delineates what the author has identified as stages that teachers experience as they begin to move outside their classrooms. Genuine support for this approach would hasten its adoption. (DDR)

In this article, the authors discuss some myths about culture and literacy based on the deficit perspective, and add their voices to those advocating a contrasting transformational perspective. They present evidence for the importance of looking closely and respectfully at interactions among children and families to better understand their many…

A model for analysing the nature of the dyadic teacher-student interplay in instructional situations including one teacher and one student is described. The "teacher" may be a regular teacher, a parent, or any other person who is in the position of teacher. The "student" may be a student of any age. The model may discern (a) if the teacher merely…

This study examined the impact of structuredness of asynchronous online discussion protocols and evaluation rubrics on meaningful discourse. Transcripts of twelve online discussions involving 87 participants from four sections of a graduate course entitled Instructional Technology Foundations and Learning Theory were analysed across four…

Kindergarten teachers in Hong Kong are blamed for not putting child-initiated learning theory into practice. Their competence is challenged. An earlier study ( Li, 2003 ) suggested that the professional development of kindergarten teachers was limited by their inability to extend thinking beyond their own personal concerns so that the needs of the…