This inquiry focused on the use of carpentry tools as a valid school activity for the young child. The research included an examination of the historical development of tools in the school and the current theories on learning in early childhood programs. (Editor)

A trip to the zoo can be a terrific way for young children to learn about animals, especially using planned learning experiences. Presents some activities for use before, during, and after a trip to the zoo. (NB)

Investigated the experiences of a group of adults enrolled in the Pure Mathematics module of the Certificate IV in Adult Tertiary Preparation in 2000 at one of the Institutes of TAFE in Brisbane, Australia. Classroom learning experiences, exposure to technology, and the impact of returning to study on other facets of students' lives were…

This article describes a science learning experience in which intermediate grade students launched balloons with attached postcards to study wind currents. More than 200 (of over 900 balloons) were returned, and their analysis supported the students' hypothesis about the direction of wind currents. (DB)

A documentary will detail the experiences of two Canadians surviving for a year in the wilderness of northern Ontario by using Native skills. For the past year, they have prepared jerky, studied and talked with Native elders, made flour out of cattails, and sewn protective clothing out of animal hides. (LP)

Parental coaching with homework of gifted children is considered. The coaching process involves planning, teaching, reflecting, and applying what has been learned to the next situation. The parent's role is described as providing the right environment for working, providing help when desired, and being nonjudgmental. (SW)

The majority of 40 parents of middle schoolers in an integrated curriculum believed their children enjoyed the learning experience and their family become more involved in learning. However, they did not seem to be very aware of the qualities of an integrated curriculum. (SK)

A survey of undergraduates (172 co-op, 216 non-co-op), graduate students (80 co-op, 153 non), and 233 work supervisors indicated that co-op and non-co-op students had similar experiences of mentoring. Recommendations were for more focus on the transformational aspect of mentoring and creation, development, and enhancement of relationships in…

Interviews with 18 people aged 100-106 revealed rich late-life learning experiences, knowledge acquisition, skill development, and behavior change. Most learning occurred through social interactions, some through media. Impediments included vision, hearing, mobility, and health problems. (SK)

In discussing what makes for a challenging and supportive learning environment, this paper uses the fiction of J. K. Rowling as a literary vehicle for considering the role of educators and contemplating ideal context for learning. This literature can be used as a guide for educators to try and design a general curriculum where students have a…

Claims that involving children in the process of gardening--selecting seeds and plants, planting, tending the garden, and harvesting the crop--helps them see the natural process of growing plants. Introduces container, square-foot, raised, and conventional gardens. Gives suggestions on what and when to plant as well as tips on gardening and…

Notes that guided participation is not a new instructional technique, and that "apprenticeship" best illustrates the concept. Cites as key how teachers create a context for active participation in socially constituted practices. Points out that accent is on relationships, not individuals, shifting attention to learning experiences with a…

Describes how storytelling can be used for reflective learning purposes. Explores the context in which storytelling occurs and identifies the characteristics that shape the process: setting, number of listeners, and type of story. Demonstrates how storytellers can mix these characteristics, which are translated into eight storytelling pathways,…

Three interviews each with five people who had articulated a life mission and analysis of their journals delineated the relationship of life mission to self-directed and transformative learning. New learning experiences refocus mission. The stronger and more focused the mission, the stronger and more focused the learner's self-direction. (SK)

The price of a university education has increased over the years. As a result, students often graduate with thousands of dollars of debt. Conducting research or developing class projects that require personal expenditures can be overwhelming, if not impossible. Participation in research and in developing projects can enhance a student's…