A number of issues in classroom second language instruction, particularly as they relate to grammar instruction, are considered in the context of recent research and theory. Discussion begins with a review of the nature and role of second language grammar instruction. Following this, these issues are explored: whether the native or target language…

This booklet looks at the role of learner feedback in the quality improvement process. It suggests how adult and community learning (ACL) providers can adapt and improve their practice to meet the needs of learners in the changed policy context. Chapter 1 explores why providers should listen to learners and finds that listening to learners…

Because an instructor's first interaction with students on the first day of class can determine the success of those to follow, it is important to explore what happens in a classroom setting before offering prescriptions on how to best handle situations in that setting. To understand how students' responses to specific attributes related to…

This proceedings includes the following papers: (1) "Structure of Attention in Teaching Mathematics" (John Mason); (2) "Communicating Mathematics or Mathematics Storytelling" (Kathy Heinrich); (3) "Assessing Mathematical Thinking" (Florence Glanfield and Pat Rogers); (4) "From Theory to Observational Data (and…

This digest provides an overview of considerations for teaching students with autism. General considerations for providing effective instruction for students with autism include: (1) ensure that the student is in good health, free from pain and irritation, and in a safe, stimulating, and pleasurable setting; (2) provide structure in the…

There is growing evidence that the needs of adult and child or adolescent learners are very different. A recent study of adult learning and literacy suggests that participants who have goals in mind are likely to persist in their studies, and changing a goal through experience appears to be a positive decision. Effective adult learning programs…

A comparison of frequency and directionality of 13 Navajo and 7 Caucasian preschool children's oral-linguistic and nonoral-visual behaviors in an urban classroom and playground revealed Navajo children to be far less oral-linguistic, considerably less oral-nonlinguistic, and strikingly more nonoral-visual than the Caucasian children. (NEC)

Relates teaching experiences and problems encountered in trying to improve students' motivation with a variety of teaching methods and classroom techniques. Concludes that the social function of language provides the highest motivation for most, but advocates different approaches to teaching in response to different students' needs and learning…

Observers coded student-teacher classroom discussions and laboratory conversations which could be described as advisement, interpretation, confirmation, or reflection. All four verbal response modes imply presumption of knowledge of the person addressed. As hypothesized, teachers were more presumptuous than students, suggesting a link to social…

A survey of 1,200 students at York University (Ontario) found students' place of residence affected student involvement and first-year grades. After controlling for standardized test scores and department, freshman grades of off-campus students were higher than those of on-campus students. Despite off-campus residence and low involvement in some…

Describes the experience of Brown University (Rhode Island) in offering alumni a six-week electronic seminar, entirely text-driven, on drugs and drug policy in which course exchanges occurred with listserv software and electronic mail. Outlines the course's background and design, student demographics, technical support, dynamics of class…

Advocates a proactive method by Forrest Gathercoal of dealing with conflict and discipline in the music classroom through reliance on democratic principles. This method, "Judicious Discipline," is based upon the Bill of Rights and includes sharing power, allowing students to be heard, and acknowledging their thoughts as credible and…

Tape-recorded commentaries on student writing can tell students in detail how a reader responds to their writing. Computers that can record and/or play back voice recordings can also help improve the way teachers annotate students' drafts. Strategies for using the method are presented, with excerpts from students' discipline-based writing and…

Discusses how teachers can teach science to elementary students with deafness. Urges the need to provide scientific knowledge in an accessible language and to encourage "hands on" experiences with a variety of materials. Addresses how science can increase competency in reading and writing English. (CR)

Techniques for successful team teaching, drawn from an informal survey of Middlesex Community College (Massachusetts) instructors with team teaching experience, are outlined. Issues addressed include techniques for beginning class, taking attendance, seating, forms of address, passing out material, grading assignments, working together in the…