Describes the use of generative curriculum in a first-grade class, whereby students pursue their own topics of interest and ways of learning as they engage in meaningful inquiry. Outlines demonstrations that teachers can use to help students develop their own topics. Areas covered include composition, visual arts, notetaking, interviews, surveys,…

Presents three hands-on, discovery geometry lessons based on the use of special pieces called Polydrons by a fifth-grade class to build and investigate special properties of polyhedra and to stimulate students to think geometrically. Includes reproducible student worksheets. (MKR)

Discusses a course which combines Assessment, Investigation, and Mathematical Skills (A.I.M.S.) to originate, arouse, and sustain student interest in mathematics by changing to a more group-centered, democratic style of classroom management and by shifting toward more self-evaluation on the part of the students. (MKR)

Reviews 12 professional books dealing with the following topes: (1) children's literature; (2) literacy development; (3) young writers; (4) discovery science and nature; (5) whole-language resources on butterflies and on dinosaurs; (6) mathematics; (7) engaging children in literacy; (8) early childhood curriculum; (9) the High/Scope Perry…

This paper describes student performance and beliefs regarding fractions resulting from a five-phase approach toward developing mathematical intuition via physical materials. Interviews with students using this approach and with students using a conventional textbook approach indicated significant differences in problem-solving abilities and…

Presents a study to determine whether computer use in guided-discovery learning episodes would enhance the problem-solving ability of secondary school students (n=147). Results indicate interaction between low- and middle-level students' mathematical achievement and treatment groups, while high-level students performed well regardless of approach.…

Argues that traditional educational methods erode children's natural enthusiasm for learning. Suggests that reformers consider incorporating principles of Montessori education as a way to improve the present educational system. Replacing emphasis on performance and competition with respect for children's right to follow their own interests and…

Proposes replacing the term child-centered with child-sensitive to indicate more accurately the major role of teachers in determining the curriculum and activities offered to young children. In contrast to the laissez-faire, child-indulgent approach of many child-centered programs, a child sensitive approach would encourage teachers to capitalize…

Describes the federal legislation introduced in 1991 that provides formula grants to states to purchase elementary science equipment. The purchases are to be matched by local education agencies and coordinated with hands-on laboratory activities. (MDH)

An outdoor trip leader reflects on the outdoor leader's role and responsibilities and on three qualities that set outdoor education programs apart from recreational programs: they promote continued self-directed learning; encourage reflection on the experience, both through structured activities and the creation of conditions conducive to…

Describes the Vicarious Learner Project, a project which investigates the fundamental role of dialog for learning, specifically the benefits to learners of being able to observe others participating in discussion. Theoretical aspects of the work, a high-level process model of learning, and a more detailed logic model of what happens in educational…

Describes the basic mechanisms of the SimQuest, an authoring system for designing/creating simulation-based learning environments. The functionality authors have in providing the learner with guidance and experiences on how authors use opportunities and learners employ the cognitive support are reported.(Author)

As vocational "shop" courses are being replaced by technology education, a woodworking class at Springfield (Pennsylvania) High School is thriving. It is the school's most popular course, with over 100 enrollees each semester. Students think critically, solve problems, and take pride in their fine craftsmanship. (MLH)

Although most people believe that schools exist to help children learn and achieve, some wonder why children's instruction must be hurried and why kindergarten is becoming so academic. Full-day programs, which accommodate parents' work schedules, are now commonplace; they may benefit some disadvantaged kids more than their affluent counterparts.…

Built around such themes as nature, cooking, and community involvement, after-school programs help students make powerful connections and ask big questions. Theme-based programming is most successful when staff members listen, observe, and acknowledge experiences that excite and motivate the students. Kids also love clubhouses and pressrooms. (MLH)