Studies effects of the Paideia curriculum on critical thinking skills of 270 high school students in the Paideia curriculum and 284 in the standard curriculum. A problematic relationship exists between the treatment investigated and the measures used to collect data, supporting arguments for localized evaluation of Paideia Program efforts. (SLD)

The article reveals philosophical, social, and practical difficulties with ongoing governmental policy in vocational education, focusing on the School-to-Work Opportunities Act of 1994, which is designed to construct a national transition system administered at state and local levels. Alternative approaches are suggested. (SM)

Examines communication and motor skill learning from the perspective of research on teaching. Discusses research design for laboratory motor learning, applied motor learning, physical education teaching, and contributions of each to knowledge of motor skill learning, concluding that teachers are important in structuring and communicating…

Argues that secondary economics teachers must help students learn to apply fundamental economics concepts to real problems. Advocates the critical thinking approach. Outlines goals, objectives, content, and procedures for an inquiry lesson that teaches the concepts land, labor, and capital through a problem-solving, hypothesis-testing method.…

Data from the national Youth in Transition Study for 1,456 high school students and recent graduates indicate that reported grade averages in grades 11 and 12 are significantly affected by academic self-concept measured the previous year. Results demonstrate the influence of academic self-concept on subsequent academic achievement. (SLD)

A survey of 130 students in 2 community colleges measured perceived differences in educational experiences as high school seniors and college freshmen, academic and personal skills perceived as needed at college entry, and perceived development of those skills. Respondents felt overall academic instruction was better in college. (Author/MSE)

Describes a study that was conducted to assess the educational value of simulation gaming in business policy courses. Student and practitioner perceptions of simulation effectiveness are examined and compared; relevant literature is reviewed and research problems are discussed; and the importance of various managerial skills is considered. (30…

Among concepts that seem to be the guardian angels of school reform, coherence is a rebel angel, advancing human learning, but escaping control. Coherence must not be confused with consistency. It allows for change and imagination but remains true to concepts and experiences that construct coherence without fabricating consistency. (SLD)

A Harvard School of Dental Medicine introductory course in computer basics and providing computer-assisted instruction in scientific research methodology is described and evaluated. Most students found the coursework difficult, and only one-quarter found it relevant. Integration of computer science into content-area courses is recommended. (MSE)

Compares two instructional strategies, prompting and direct instruction, to determine which produces dialogical reasoning in written essays concerning controversial issues. Participants were 45 sixth graders. Finds both strategies equally productive and concludes that the emphasis should be on providing thought-provoking, issues-oriented social…

Describes a college English-as-a-Second-Language curriculum model based on a whole-language approach that is presented to stimulate others to review and revise their own curriculum. (25 references) (GLR)

Describes the following seven approaches to integrating technology with science education: (1) instructional technology, (2) technology as a method of inquiry, (3) technology as cultural knowledge, (4) technology as vocational training, (5) technological literacy as process and manipulative skill, (6) science-technology-society, and (7) design and…

Multiple group structural equation modeling was used to analyze structural relationships between latent factors underlying writing-related developmental skills and component writing skills in grades 1 through 6 for 600 students (50 boys and 50 girls at each grade level). Results for handwriting, spelling, and compositional quality are discussed…

Examines what children learn from using educational technology in an informal, collaborative environment. Explores how mastering educational computer programs can promote problem-solving transfer. Studies at three after-school computer clubs reveal children who use educational software may learn content knowledge about computer literacy,…

Describes a classroom experiment in cooperative learning, in which economics students were grouped into learning teams and given a computer simulation package to learn the effects of fiscal/monetary policy on various economic variables. Results included thorough coverage of course material, greater student interest, better discussion, higher…