Describes a thematic curriculum unit in which elementary students simulate travel around the world and record their experiences using word processors and databases. Includes figures listing student directions and an actual student journal entry. Asserts that technology can heighten student motivation and improve knowledge about the world. (CFR)

This paper summarized contributors' ideas about evaluation as a field and where it is going. Topics discussed were qualitative versus quantitative debate; evaluation's purpose; professionalization; program failure; program development; evaluators as advocates; evaluation knowledge; evaluation expansion; and methodology and design. (SLD)

Randomly assigned 246 African American adolescents either to an educational program or to an 8-week intervention that combined education with behavior skills training. Results indicate that, compared with the education program, youth in behavioral skills training lowered their infection risk to a greater degree, maintained risk reduction changes…

Presents a vision for change in foreign language education. Topics include U.S. national interest, views of prominent politicians, role of the intellectual community, curriculum content, global outlook, cooperation among universities and elementary and secondary schools, and changing technology. A response to this overview is presented. (12…

Examines an interlingual subtitling course for Welsh-English transfer designed to provide professional capability and developed over 10 delivery cycles. Analysis of student performance on course indicates the need for regular practice to maintain capability and the possibility of developing an individual style. (14 references) (Author/CK)

Examines three possible mechanisms for the effects of first-grade reading group placement. Finds that first-grade ability-group placement can have persistent effects on children's achievement in school for several years and may shape expectations of the children by parents and teachers. (CFR)

Asserts that interest has increased in social skills training with children and adolescents. Reviews research literature on this topic and concludes that, although social skills training may be a necessary component in bringing about real life changes for children lacking in social competence, it may not always be sufficient. (CFR)

Discusses the perceptual effects of music on culture. Outlines the differences between "high" and "low" culture and attributes of popular culture. Concludes that the goal should not be to encourage students to listen to better music, but to listen to all music more intelligently. (CFR)

Provides concluding remarks for the theme issue on critical thinking skill development in college psychology courses. Maintains that conclusive evidence exists that critical thinking skills can be learned and are transferable. Encourages educators to make critical thinking a primary educational goal in all instruction. (CFR)

Describes the origins, development, and activities of the Elementary School Economics Project at the University of Chicago during the "New Social Studies" era of the 1960s. Maintains that the program was compatible with the social science and inquiry-based instructional strategies popular at that time. (CFR)

Describes a junior high school course in musical composition using Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) technology. Discusses course objectives and three composition projects. Includes a list of definitions and asserts that MIDI technology offers students and teachers a powerful method to study how music works. (CFR)

Describes the process that the National Center on Educational Outcomes used to generate outcomes that could be viewed as applying to all students. Descriptions of the process should provide special services personnel with a perspective on how they might be leaders in developing school goals and standards for students. (RJM)

Argues that parents be included in developing a model for early childhood education. Recommends the careful consideration of the support parents provide their children for reaching educational outcomes, as well as the support received by parents. Addresses the composition of stakeholders involved in developing a model of outcomes and indicators.…

A study of 547 science and mathematics majors graduated from a leading women's college found that cohort, major, number of undergraduate science courses, parental encouragement, and career advice from faculty were key factors associated with persistence in science and mathematics after college. (Author/MSE)

Analyzes political aspects of postapartheid educational transition in South Africa, 1990-93. Focuses on educational politics as a process of negotiating incremental reform, changes in educational objectives and strategies of key progressive organizations, the role of the state in civil society, and the relative importance of equality versus…