The Communication Observation Schedule (COS) records systematically the pragmatics of communication with children who have deaf-blindness and are functioning from the prelanguage to true words level. The COS provides the opportunity to record the purpose of an interaction, who initiates and who responds to it, the mode of response, and whether the…

Discusses a teaching experiment with (n=19) senior and graduate mathematics students. Analysis suggests that students' difficulties with the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus stem from impoverished concepts of rate of change and from poorly developed and coordinated images of functional covariation and multiplicatively constructed quantities.…

Nine comprehensive observations were conducted of 24 preschoolers (8 with disabilities) in free play settings, with social behavior categories based on the work of Strain. Comparison of partial and complete observational records demonstrated that at least five observations were required to represent the children's social behavior adequately.…

Examines effectiveness of structured groups as collaborative approach to developing problem-solving and interpersonal communication skills of remedial college students. Participants were primarily first-generation black, Hispanic, or female college students. Results were inconclusive but suggest need for larger sample and more appropriate outcome…

Evaluators using a naturalistic orientation observe a teacher's performance within the context of other lessons and interactions, view teacher observation and evaluation as processes rather than outcomes, and see events from the teacher's perspective. Principals can increase objectivity by recognizing the effects of their attitudes and experiences…

Presents three types of peer coaching as a staff development approach for physical educators that is usable at all levels on an individual, school, or districtwide basis. Peer coaching helps teachers feel less isolated, use educational practices effectively, use educational reflection positively, and develop professional collegiality. (SM)

Suggests that experimental studies are valuable in analyzing children's language development. Criticizes the scarcity of experimental and naturalistic investigation into preschool language development. Calls for long-term study of continuity and discontinuity in children's school and home learning and between different school stages. Observes that…

Describes a formative and reciprocal partnership that can help librarians with similar experience and knowledge develop their instructional skills through peer coaching. A literature review; program guidelines; choosing partners; the process of classroom observation; and the provision of descriptive, nonevaluative feedback are covered. (23…

Observers used two Q-sorts to describe mothers' and infants' behavior at home. Mothers of more difficult children were less sensitive than other mothers. There was a strong relation between maternal sensitivity and infant attachment. Mothers of more secure infants noticed and enjoyed their babies more than mothers of less secure infants. (BC)

Discusses a study of systematic observation instruments designed to assess characteristics of children's physical activity related to health. The article identifies 8 instruments designed for children from 20 months to sixth grade and examines the advantages of direct, naturalistic observation. Recommendations for improving the current…

A study involving 11 teachers and 375 students was conducted to examine teacher behavior in biology classes/laboratories in Nigeria. Objective and detailed quantitative description of teacher behavior was made possible by systematic observation using the category system presented. The predominant feature in the classroom was talk by the teacher.…

In a study of 29 aspiring administrators from the University of Colorado preparation program, only 10 percent demonstrated adequate instructional conferencing abilities. Identified problems included underanalysis, poorly focused strategizing, lack of reflective discussion, and failure to pursue the conference objective. Recommendations and…

This study evaluated the effects of completing infant development questionnaires on mothers whose ability to provide an appropriate caregiving environment for their infants was suspect. The 18 mothers who completed the questionnaire were found to be more accurate observers of their infants than 18 control mothers who had not completed the…

Describes strategies used in a demonstration project monitoring teachers' use of Manually Coded English, American Sign Language, and pidgin signing in communicating with deaf students. Factors considered to influence teacher behavior included student characteristics, teacher training and certification, and support systems. (Author/CB)

The methodological issue of qualitative versus quantitative research is addressed, and the argumentation of research using interview methods for research is explored. Warrants of the type that are used in arguments generating conclusions from interview data are included. (KR)