HRD (human resources development) is tackled by the author, who argues against HRD's psychological construct; the assumption that for every problem, there is a theoretical and workable solution; teamwork as opposed to individualism; listening as a discrete skill; if it's Japanese, it's better; and HRD's theory of leadership. (CT)

The concept of "synergogy," which combines the benefits of teacher-centered and learner-centered instruction, is discussed. The benefits of synergogy (broad applicability, modest resources, increased learning, and secondary learning) are explained. The principal synergogic designs (team effectiveness, team-member teaching, performance…

Examined the effectiveness of a structured learning skills course for college freshmen (N=75). Compared to a matched control sample the learning skills group achieved a higher grade point average after one year and a higher rate of retention after three years. (JAC)

Summarizes the responses of governors and past presidents and executive directors of the National Council of Teachers of English and the International Reading Association to the question "If it were in your power, what one thing would you do to improve the reading and writing skills of boys and girls?" (FL)

Presents a study of the process and the product in the early writing attempts of two children. Examines some of the strategies they use during the intermediate or invented spelling stage. (HTH)

Describes the Peninsula Academies program developed by the Sequoia (California) Union High School District and 27 local high technology companies to help educationally disadvantaged students break the pattern of low academic achievement, lack of skills, and chronic unemployment. (FL)

The use of search strategy as a conceptual framework for teaching research techniques has long been a central concept of library instruction. It involves teaching analysis of research questions, understanding of structural differences in knowledge across disciplines, and evaluation of information. (MSE)

The author reports on the efforts to put 4,000 microcomputers into the Broward County (Florida) Schools in a two-year period. He discusses choosing hardware, teacher training, integrating Florida high technology companies' employee requirements into the vocational curriculum, articulation at the secondary and postsecondary levels, equipment…

Describes importance of listening and interest in developing listening skills in today's educational curriculum, and discusses past attempts to develop listening skills through legislation mandating listening education, development of listening courses, formation of International Listening Association, and Sperry Corporation's listening…

Discusses educational research related to time students spend listening and implications research findings should have on teachers' methods and roles. Development of teacher training programs to improve listening behaviors, how listening should be developed across the curriculum, and how teachers serve as listening role models are suggested. (MBR)

Describes the development of a set of training modules based on the learning by example paradigm, with modules differing in the degree of guidance offered to the learner. The program structure is outlined, and three kinds of loops used to adapt the program to the learner's performance are discussed. (MBR)

Describes a project which involved designing a nine-week course utilizing computer assisted instruction (CAI) to teach seventh graders critical thinking skills. Results indicate measurable gains were made in the critical thinking skills of verbal analogy and inductive/deductive reasoning, although no consistent gains were made in logical reasoning…

Provides examples of science activities in which children use their senses in manipulating objects and ideas. Suggests that these and other activities be extended to help children deepen their understanding of scientific concepts. (JN)

Laid-off music teachers should make sure their educational self-improvement is cost-effective. Some skills can be acquired without formal instruction. If graduate school is indicated, teachers should choose prestigious schools and should try to get scholarships or assistantships. Broader qualifications can also help employment potential. (CS)

Geography must help students understand the interrelationships of people with each other and with their surroundings. Describes a world geography unit for the sixth grade based upon the climatic regions of the world. By asking questions at increasingly higher levels, teachers can raise students' thinking skills. (CS)