In both education and extension studies, the traditional approach (transfer of knowledge, learning as passive absorption) has given way to new discourses: in education, knowledge construction and in extension, participatory learning and research. The new paradigms have yet to be formed into effective praxis. (SK)

Suggests specific ways in which laboratory activities might be slightly modified to increase students' understanding in science, based on recommendations from the National Science Education Standards and on constructivist understandings of the learning process. Contains 42 references. (WRM)

Identifies the social dimensions of learning. Advocates a teaching approach that is sensitive to the various barriers encountered by a diverse body of students seeking to negotiate access into the subculture of school science. (Author/CCM)

Explores theoretical and practical advantages of a constructivist shift from breadth to depth, and from formalism to contextualism, through the inclusion of artists' primary source writings. Believes that students benefit from linking artist's words to their images providing students with another point from which they can survey the world of…

Discusses the gap between educational theories and practice and focuses on constructivism in mathematics classrooms. Contains 12 references. (ASK)

The dominant approach to on-the-job training is the job instruction model (experienced colleague as instructor). The model involves task analysis and direct instruction. Task analysis is useful if restricted to elements that benefit from standardization. Direct instruction is effective only if embedded in continuous work improvement and is…

A study of 1,176 Taiwanese 10th graders showed that they tend to perceive their learning environments as less constructivist than they preferred. Those with more constructivist than empiricist beliefs about science felt that environments did not provide sufficient opportunities for social negotiation, integration of prior knowledge, and meaningful…

This article describes constructivist principles of learning in geometry specific to children's imaginal anticipations in line measurement and fractions. Application with seven sixth grade students with learning disabilities found that students had difficulty coordinating and imagining second-order and higher nested relationships that could be…

Focuses on problem-based learning (PBL). Explains ill-defined problems of PBL and compares PBL with the typical problem solving approach. Lists 10 steps to involve students in constructing understanding for use with PBL. (YDS)

Argues that "truth" and "time" are defined differently by scientists and postmodern observers of science: a theoretical definition of "truth" is often applied to scientific knowledge within science education, whereas a practical definition, supported by evidence, is used within science. (Author/CCM)

Compares five perspectives on experiential learning in terms of their views of knowledge, learning, and teaching; relationship of knower, culture, and knowledge; and critiques of the perspectives. The five are reflection (constructivist), interference (psychoanalytical), participation (situative), resistance (critical cultural), and co-emergence…

Examined the reactions of students to an educational psychology course designed to be constructivist, situated, and socially mediated. Response of 34 graduate students to a questionnaire suggest that most students believed class activities were helpful to their understanding of course content and learning of new teaching strategies. (SLD)

Studied effects of a constructivist and interdisciplinary block of methods courses on the self-efficacy in mathematics of 73 preservice teachers. Significant differences were found between pretest and posttest results. Discusses implications for teacher education programs. (SLD)

The criticism of the review of social competence and affective behaviors provided by D. Ferguson and P. Ferguson does not respond to the review so much as it presents a constructivist point of view about disabilities and inclusion and, as such, is a statement of an ideology rather than a critique of a review. (SLD)

Draws attention to some contemporary educational issues that hinge upon interpretations of the nature of science, especially constructivist proposals. Discusses the range of philosophical debate on the merits of constructivism. Contains 88 references. (DDR)