Great Britain's National Curriculum places insufficient emphasis on handwriting instruction, and its suggestion to begin joined-up writing in Level 3 is inappropriate. A historical perspective on variations in handwriting style leads to a recommendation for a simple joined style, which would be based on the skeletal italic and taught by example.…

A graduate course in educational administration at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill uses simulation of a higher education institution to teach planning. A literature review on strategic planning is combined with an experiential planning exercise using the alternative futures approach. The exercise extends appreciation of planning…

In the cooperative controversy technique, two opposing sides are clearly drawn over a single issue, and learners on both sides cooperate to understand both sides and arrive at a personal position. Students respond enthusiastically to the exercise, are helped in exploring emotional responses to issues, and learn how, not what, to think. (MSE)

Explains how the author encouraged students to think about censorship and the arts when conducting a field trip to Robert Mapplethorpe's "The Perfect Moment" exhibition at the Wadsworth Atheneum (Connecticut). Suggests preparing the students beforehand and keeping parents informed. Recommends booking a public room at a museum where…

The situation regarding each Australian State's secondary physics syllabi are summarized. The planning directions necessary to keep such syllabi relevant to the changing needs of Australian secondary students are discussed. Factors influencing the implementation of these physics courses are described. (KR)

Discussed is how modern physics is usually approached via the photoelectric effect and how this can lead to a physically wrong picture of light. The importance of using the quantum theory developed after 1920 to explain the properties of light is discussed. (KR)

Cross-national study examines how social science, social studies, and civics instruction have evolved in public education. Finds that countries frequently adapt social science curricula independent of local conditions. Suggests that this produces a homogeneity of curricula over time and national boundaries. Illustrates curriculum's central role in…

Describes the implementation of a humanities-based curriculum for all ninth and tenth grade students at St. Michael's Academy (Austin, Texas). The ninth grade core is thematically organized, integrating the study of English and religion. The sophomore core integrates world history, world literature, and comparative religions. Describes sample…

Reviews two prominent philosophical justifications for animal liberation and describes a simulation that facilitates class discussion of animal research issues. Students reported that the exercise increased their awareness of the issues and of the complexity of making ethical decisions. (DB)

Offers a perspective on the challenge teachers face with the question of religion's role in the public schools. Discusses seven guidelines for curricular decision making. Cautions against seeking absolute solutions to the questions that will continue to surround the religious liberty provisions of the First Amendment. (DB)

The Iowa Board of Regents requires faculty to present a disclaimer when classroom instructional materials include sexually explicit content and allow students to complete alternative assignments. Some feel the policy strikes a healthy balance between academic freedom and student choice; others see it as giving students undue authority. (MSE)

Describes a college-level course in psychology in which students study community issues and problems. Outlines how students work in community program internships and participate in individual and group research projects. Includes course objectives, recommended instructional resources, and evaluation strategies. (CFR)

Asserts that efforts to achieve educational reform can have significant personal and professional effects on participants in the process. Presents "Ten Verities" as a perspective on the tremendous investment that participation in the reform process requires. Concludes that, the end product of world class geography standards will justify…

Reviews international studies that show that girls have a poorer command of physical concepts than boys. Examines factors that might explain this phenomenon and discusses whether or not boys have different learning styles than girls. Recommends that science course content must be structured to fit girls' skills and interests. (CFR)

Asserts that, for citizens in a democracy to understand and act upon complex societal issues, they must be able to integrate knowledge from a variety of subjects. Traces the history of interdisciplinary social studies education and examines arguments of its supporters and detractors. (CFR)