The ability of the theory of reasoned action to predict computer-related attitudes and behavior was demonstrated through two studies: a questionnaire on computer behaviors and attitudes; and word processing training involving various levels of persuasive communication based on belief statements identified in the first study. (22 references) (MES)

Discusses highlights of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child that a student outlines in a letter to Senator William Bradley of New Jersey. Includes children's needs and problems. Describes the health care situation in the United States and its effect on children from poor families. Argues that the convention contains many advantages and…

Analyzes nuclear strategic doctrine by applying understandings of human communication processes to deterrence theory and game theory. Focuses on communication as risk. Demonstrates flaws in game theory because of its mechanistic view, stressing that communication is a process not an event, and actions are bound by cultural dispositions. Advocates…

Raises questions about an aspect of rhetoric called the commonplace. Suggests how commonplaces may be applied to educational topics in innovative ways. Shows historical analysis can highlight assumed concepts and values in discourse, policy, and practices. Argues educators must increase awareness of the interrelated arts of rhetoric in teaching by…

This study surveyed personal factors influencing reasoning of 61 adult citizens about federal budget deficit solutions. Reasoners were motivated to present a strong argument for their answers and generally did not offer counterargument unless prompted to do so. Education level was not significantly related to quality of argument. (SLD)

College and university fundraisers are recognizing their international alumni's willingness as donors, but making the most of these potential donors requires explaining the concept of philanthropy, unknown in some cultures, researching prospects through a variety of sources, and preparing carefully for the cultural context of meetings overseas.…

Studies different methods of teaching argumentation to middle school students. Concludes that explicit instruction in argumentative form and argument structure sharpens students' judgment regarding the content and organization needed to generate logically connected arguments and improves students' writing of arguments. Finds that such an approach…

Discusses how Wake Forest university's adoption of campus-wide computer technology exhibited critical elements of conscience formation. Details how the computer revolution challenged the customary morality of the university; describes how the community engaged in moral deliberation about its technological future; and discusses how the…

Discusses the impact of teaching econometrics, particularly the theoretical aspects, in a computer classroom focusing on the hands-on and discovery learning approaches that computers encourage. Explores the problems that occur when teaching in a computer classroom, such as the increase in course preparation time. Includes reactions by Jeffrey…

Suggests that formal classroom debate presents an opportunity for dental students to develop important learning/thinking skills and can be incorporated into coursework along with other active learning strategies. Discusses debate organization, presents rules of debate used in second-year dental school classes at the State University of New York,…

Argues that the obstacle to the revitalization of civic education in academic political science is the view that research and publication deliver professional advancement and recognition while engaging in civic education does not. Reviews the reflections of several American Political Science Association (APSA) committees on instruction. Provides…

Discusses three educational ideas, demonstrating their incompatibility: (1) a focus on socialization; (2) Plato's notion that education is the process of seeking truth about reality; and (3) Jean-Jacques Rousseau's idea that the mind undergoes a developmental process and education furthers its development. Argues that education is learning to use…

While college composition theory/pedagogy courses are standard offerings in composition and rhetoric graduate programs, specialized basic writing graduate courses lag behind. At the same time, there is a pressing need for highly qualified teachers of nontraditional adult students, especially in community college and adult literacy education…

In this article, the author presents Fox (2005) argument on functional contextualism and his assessment of the current conceptual frameworks in the field of instructional design and technology. The often unquestioning espousal of constructivism in the field of instructional design and technology has caused problems for a number of reasons. Fox…

In this article, the author discusses that in January 2006, the "New York Times" headlined a new $3.75 billion federal initiative that would give $750 grants to low-income college students who successfully completed a "rigorous secondary school program of study" (Dillon 2006). The author argues that this quiet addition to the…