Describes a study that investigated how to teach computer skills to undergraduate female novice users through the design of an instructional manual that facilitated learning computer skills and increased computer self-efficacy by using familiar analogies. Treatment of the experimental and control groups is explained, and measurement techniques are…

Interviews were conducted with 142 above-average readers and 128 below-average readers in the fourth grade. In contrast to poor readers, good readers reported understanding what they read, talking more, being understood more often, and reading more frequently at home and for fun. No differences existed between groups in opinions of the value and…

Characterizes the medieval cathedral as an architectural encyclopedia, expressing the humanistic concerns, beliefs, and aspirations of the period in which it was built. Explains the theological, political, and social significance of the cathedral's architectural characteristics from the floor plan to the spires. Discusses the process and problems…

Early literacy involves daily reading aloud as well as writing or dictating activities. Preschoolers learn that reading is enjoyable, pictures provide story clues, and print goes from left to right and represents words and meaning. Listening, watching, and asking questions increase vocabulary and comprehension. Sidebars include tips, a book list,…

An international research project investigated the role of principals in developing and supporting information -literate school communities. Principals and teacher-librarians completed three surveys examining their perceptions/beliefs about their current and future roles, and views on such concerns as strengths and challenges of the school…

In Chiapas (Mexico), the public schools call themselves bilingual, but in reality they consider traditional languages inferior and teach only in Spanish. Sna Jtz'ibajom, a Chiapas group that preserves Mayan culture through oral and written literature, founded a community school that has taught over 2,000 men, women, and children to read and write…

English as-a-Second-Language teachers can use CD-ROMs to integrate multimedia into their lessons. This paper discusses how teachers can encourage students to use CD-ROM encyclopedias and databases as information sources for class projects, as the basis for defined assignments, as the source of information for subjects within the English syllabus,…

Discusses the importance of a school's infrastructure, equipment and software acquisitions, and the need for staff training and inservice workshops targeted toward helping teachers develop skills in technology applications. Considers the significance of the Internet and the changing role of the teacher. (AEF)

A case study is presented of the language and literacy development of a girl with deafness from preschool through sixth grade. Annual evaluation of language and literacy skills was used to select educational placements, instructional methods, strategies, and materials. Grade level progress and instruction is presented and discussed. (Contains…

Examined relationship between family literacy practices and mothers' beliefs about early reading instruction, and children's emergent literacy skills. Identified mothers with 'whole language' theories and mothers with phonics orientations. Found that mothers' implicit theories were associated with their modeling of literacy behaviors, helping…

Describes a course that linked first-grade students using emergent writing skills with university early-childhood majors studying the process of emergent literacy, and, in so doing provided an authentic and meaningful learning context for both groups. Suggests that the pen-pal project demonstrates the value of interactive writing exchanges.…

This annotated bibliography of titles published in 1997 (in English) lists materials dealing with information literacy, including instruction in the use of information resources, research, and electronic skills related to retrieving, using, and evaluating information. Titles are presented in the categories of Academic Libraries; Public Libraries;…

In 1998, passage of Proposition 227 virtually eliminated bilingual education programs and called for instruction overwhelmingly in English. However, diverse student populations require diverse instructional approaches. Standards-based reform aids only students who can fully understand and assimilate high academic content. Constructivists value…

Examines the efforts of indigenous communities in the United States to maintain and revitalize their languages by restoring traditional learning environments and creating new ones. Describes immersion programs in Hawaiian and Navajo, bilingual education programs, master-apprentice programs, development of a Hualapai writing system and resources,…

Describes using the World Wide Web in a multilingual classroom to address different learning styles and to teach English, social studies, math, science, art, foreign countries, writing, and media literacy. Discusses parent involvement and use of technology in interdisciplinary lessons. Highlights Web sites for national standards, five reasons to…