Argues that there are many kinds of understanding and many ways to reach these different understandings. Suggests that this is the reason why articulating general rules that can consistently lead to understanding is difficult. Discusses the relationship between brain structure and learning. (DDR)

Examines the qualities of hypermedia information systems that enable them to facilitate learning and knowledge construction. Discusses the background of current learning theories, and describes a possible hypermedia system based on constructivist learning principles that could be developed through the use of intelligent autonomous agents.…

The constructivist educational theory of instructional scaffolding, where a teacher provides support to students on an as-needed basis and decreases support as the student's competence grows, is evaluated. Scaffolding is seen as being only one part of effective instruction for students with learning or other disabilities. Limitations to the…

Discusses electronic journals available on the World Wide Web, particularly in the field of education. Highlights include hypermedia journals; journals, the Internet, and education and learning theory; journal formats; the role of the librarian; and concerns, including archiving, copyright, updating, and subscriptions. (LRW)

Discussion of barriers to effective learning when librarians teach students with limited English proficiency focuses on second language acquisition theories and teaching practices derived from them which can significantly impact outcomes of information literacy instruction. Includes a checklist for course preparation and instruction. (Author/LRW)

Theory and research provide insight into the characteristics, needs, and teaching preferences of adult learners in the college classroom. This chapter provides an overview of the literature on adult learning and education theory, along with recommendations for practice. (Contains 46 references.) (Author)

Describes a study that examined the experiences of 175 teachers as they learned technology for educational purposes within the framework of transformational learning. Highlights include technology integration; educational technology professional development; adult education; teacher self-confidence; and classroom practice. (LRW)

Described is a study of second grade classes that participated in a year-long project in which instruction was generally compatible with a socioconstructivist theory of knowledge and recent recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Methods, results, and implications for mathematics instruction are discussed. (CW)

Explores the nature of historical thinking, asserting that no intrinsic differences characterize how people understand ideas. Suggests history's role in the social studies is to inspire creative inquiry into past cultures and into oneself. Examines mythology's power to teach what is timeless and quintessentially human. Highlights Joseph Campbell's…

In order to understand and evaluate the continued prevalence of corporal punishment in school systems, this article reviews the following topics: (1) historical issues; (2) current demographics and correlates; (3) the effectiveness of corporal punishment in school settings; (4) myths; (5) alternatives to corporal punishment; and (6) social policy.…

Performance of 5 students (ages 8 and 10) with moderate intellectual disability was compared as they received the DISTAR Arithmetic instructional intervention and a Discrimination Learning Theory (DLT) intervention not requiring a fast-paced verbal student response. Academic engagement and skill mastery were greater during the DLT intervention.…

Tests how perceived self-efficacy influenced cognitive task performance among 64 Canadian college students. Shows students with high perceptions of self-efficacy, induced by positive feedback, completed more problems, had more efficient problem-solving strategies, and accurately self-evaluated responses. Illustrates self-efficacy's context…

Describes four major types of learning theories (behavioral, cognitive, cybernetic, and andragogical); examines pertinent literature for each; and traces links between the literature of learning theory and that of the design of online public access catalog instructional systems. (32 references) (Author/CLB)

Raises concerns about the music educator's approach to teaching pre-kindergarten children. Proposes a pre-kindergarten music curriculum model based on a synthesis of theories about the learning environment with the contributions of learning/play theorists and music educators. Provides a global to specific approach to interactive play periods. (LS)

Howard Gardner's view of education for the gifted in 2000 includes individual-centered schools, "intelligence-fair" testing, and mentorships and internships in the community that match students with learning opportunities, allowing them to explore career opportunities and avocations for life enrichment. (MSE)