Discusses the close connection between cultural beliefs and practices and the use of language and focuses on the erosive impact of Western language literacy on native cultures. Suggests that when teachers teach connections between first- and second-language discourses, students can retain the intimate truths of their primary discourse while…

Paper considers the strategy of using aligned policies to encourage more ambitious instruction for all students from the perspective of elementary classroom teachers charged with implementing such instruction. Nine elementary teachers' responses to their local school district's efforts to press more ambitious ideas about literacy instruction are…

Summarized are uses of microcomputers. Included is a review of word processing, problem solving, microcomputer based laboratory, and database programs. Microcomputer networks and telecommunications are also discussed. (KR)

Compares the differences in purposes for literary campaigns when conducted in developed and developing countries. Considers literacy goals of students, teachers, administrators, and government policymakers. States this primary difference: developing nations' literacy campaigns identify literacy as instrumental to national and individual…

Discussion of computers in schools in developing nations focuses on national and regional policies in China. Topics discussed include computer literacy; computer-assisted instruction; instructional improvement; industry interests; cost effectiveness; attitudes of administrators, teachers, parents, and students; hardware selection; and future…

Verbal skills traditional in many Black communities were acquired by a pattern of socialization that was not as congruent with school use of written and oral language as the mainstream socialization process. The changing language use needs of the workplace present an educational challenge for both minority and mainstream populations. (Author/BJV)

Describes the goals of the Environmental Education Review Committee and presents the results of a survey on the importance of environmental education. Lists recommendations from the Committee. Provides some demographic and geographic data on the region. (YP)

Describes the revision of the 1987 edition of "The Wisconsin Library Media Skills Guide" to emphasize information skills rather than library skills. Topics discussed include cooperation between library/media specialists and classroom teachers, including curriculum development and flexible scheduling; new technology; literature use; and…

Reports on a study examining how well several personal variables predict elementary school teachers' use of computers for teaching. Variables examined included innovativeness, teacher locus of control, perceived relevance of computers, and self-competence in using computers. Data on age, gender, and years of computer experience were also…

Argues that the integration of mainstream literacy into social studies instruction is necessary to ensure that students in urban middle school classrooms learn content. Also argues for instruction from a "multiple literacies" approach in order to validate and engage disinterested students. (CFR)

Discusses future education for library media specialists that will reflect the changes being brought about as a result of school restructuring. Topics include an educational model based on instructional specialization, realigned staffing patterns, a global perspective, information literacy, and helping students construct effective mental…

Describes an eighth grade computer literacy course in which students used spreadsheet programs to illustrate statistics for classroom presentations. Discusses the use of color and animation in graphs, and the value of active participation using technology to increase student motivation, retention, and self-expression. (AEF)

In a classroom setting with young bilingual children and their parents, oral and written code switching allowed for effective communication among parents, children, and instructor in a way that was natural and comfortable for all involved. Proposes that code switching be viewed as part of a whole language approach in bilingual contexts. (Author/TD)

Reviews studies suggesting benefits of block play for literacy development that provides actual reading and writing experiences. Suggests that block play centers can be literacy-enhanced with materials that are authentic, useful, and appropriate, including: thematic books, magazines, architectural blueprints, envelopes, and adding machine tape.…

Researchers consistently underestimate the enormous potential of children to participate in the construction of their own learning environments and as research partners in examining learning. The paper chronicles one 6-year collaborative project with students on research in literacy learning and highlights students' perspectives on what the…