Whether explicit-strategy instruction combined with whole-language instruction would improve third graders' spelling more than using either approach alone was studied with 37 students. Findings suggest that young children learn to spell best when they are taught a repertoire of effective strategies in a meaningful context. (SLD)

Evaluates the effectiveness of two different intertrial intervals for increasing the sight word vocabulary of four learning disabled students. Results indicate that, when measuring learning as a function of instructional time, immediate presentation resulted in a faster learning rate than did the five-second condition for three of the…

Considers the results of a study supported by the American Educational Research Association (AERA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) that focuses on the impact of different environments on students' abilities to learn calculus. (DDR)

Presents an interview with an award-winning science teacher who is queried about why one of her studies dramatically changed her attitude about science. (DDR)

The effects of four different instructional formats (orthographic drawing, isometric drawing, physical model, and isometric and physical model together) on learning outcomes and strategies for spatial tasks were studied with 40 secondary students. Findings indicate that physical models cause the least extraneous cognitive load. (SLD)

Studied videotapes and interviews to examine students' use of learning strategies and encoding processes while engaged in a hypermedia concept lesson on propaganda techniques. Found that even among high-ability fifth graders, there was a wide variation in strategy use and encoding processes, not always leading to successful posttest performance.…

Describes a seventh-grade science course that is based on the phenology of the seasons, uses the outdoors on a regular basis, and uses reference books and field guides. (DDR)

Presents a modification of a procedure for making and launching hot air balloons made out of garbage bags. Student instructions for balloon construction, launching instructions, and scale diagrams are included. (DDR)

Presents ideas for creating a purposeful classroom environment that will help students become strategic readers. Suggestions include using the conference table to learn about students as readers, organizing books to help children make wise choices, and creating a meeting area that invites discussion. (SM)

Presents an activity that begins with a discussion that leads into the rationale behind the techniques used in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI) program. Students decode a message intended for extraterrestrials and consider a number of topics related to the possible existence of extraterrestrials. (DDR)

Provides technical information about digital photography including cost, quality, and applications in classrooms. Recommends that digital cameras be used for student classroom presentations and record keeping. (DDR)

Explores the relationship between learners' actions, visualizations, and the means by which these are articulated. Describes a microworld called Mathsticks which is designed to help students construct mathematical meanings by forging links between the visual and symbolic representations they develop and their actions. Presents a case study of two…

Describes two integrated distance learning environmental engineering degree courses offered by the environmental engineering group of the Open University in Great Britain. Discusses admission requirements for courses, advantages offered by distance learning, professional accreditation, site visits, and tutors. (AIM)

Poorly organized and dominated by amateurs, hucksters, and marketeers, the net requires efficient navigating devices. Students at Bellingham (Washington) Public Schools tackle information overload by contributing to virtual museums on school Web sites, using annotated Web curriculum lists, and conducting research in cooperative teams stressing…

Investigated understanding and use of numerals in 48 children ages 3 and 4. Found that children rarely noticed the absence of numbers if they were not able to explain their purpose. They used several methods to represent number on notes for the milkman, party invitations, and labels. Results suggest that understanding preceded use of numerals.…