Defining readability in both the narrow sense of formula use and refinement and the broader sense of the processing and comprehension of language, this paper argues for the need for more research focusing on readability as a way of improving the match between reader and text. Following a brief introduction, the paper reviews current readability…

This monograph analyzes transition in educational administrative theory. A brief introductory section describes the theoretical movement, the substance and repercussions of Thomas Greenfield's critique of educational administrative theory in 1974, and emerging qualitative approaches. Seven readings, all written by the volume's author, view…

Since current research and theory question many of the traditional methods and techniques of teaching vocabulary, a study was made to determine the content of 55 college vocabulary texts and the extent to which the content was consistent with empirical evidence. The study investigated the techniques used to teach word knowledge and whether they…

Current theories of reading are concerned with the nature of the "means" for achieving goals--processing components, paths, practices, and strategies. If reading is understood as text-oriented cultural activities, a continuum of text use can be formulated with enabling texts (those that enable the reader to do something) at one end and…

This review of the literature focused on the issue of classroom application of social skills training for handicapped children. First, ten theoretical models are described as representative of the approaches to social skills training in special education: behavioral, humanist, psychological, transactional, neuropsychological, ecological,…

The Saanich Elementary Internship Program (SEIP), a team effort between the University of Victoria (British Columbia) faculty of education and the Saanich School District, was investigated for the purpose of improving the preparation of elementary school teachers. The Saanich School District was primarily responsible for selection and placement of…

Field experiences in preservice teacher education may be both valuable and problematic. Problems may arise from: (1) previous experiences of teachers and teaching; (2) previous experiences in classrooms; (3) the potential influence of the norms and values of the setting; (4) the difficulties of relating theory and practice; (5) the challenge of…

This guidebook for preservice secondary student teachers outlines in detail the techniques for relating field experiences to the academic work in the university classroom. It assumes a progressive involvement on the part of the student teacher, beginning with active observation and leading to tutoring, working with small groups, teaching a whole…

This paper examines the steps taken in Sweden and Hungary to improve schools. A description is given of the social-political-economic context of each of these countries, noting their similarities and differences. Particular focus is upon the role played by educational research and development efforts in the two countries, and most particularly on…

To help integrate reading and writing in grades K-8, this book presents teaching strategies that reflect the most recent classroom-based research. The book is divided into the following eight chapters: (1) "Why Integrate Reading and Writing Instruction? An Overview"; (2) "Making Early Connections: Promoting Emergent Literacy";…

A three-part correlational study examined the explanatory power of the Lexile theory of reading comprehension, which was based on the semantic and syntactic components of prose. Correlations were performed between the item difficulties of nine nationally normed reading comprehension tests and computer generated difficulties which were reported in…

A project organized by the Consortium for Mathematics and Science Education at the State University of New York at Albany is described. The purpose of the project was to develop closer linkages between practice and research in didactics in mathematics and science education. A state-wide research network was created of higher education faculty with…

Although teacher education programs spend very little time on the development of listening skills, the importance of listening to communicative effectiveness can hardly be exaggerated. As good listeners, teachers: (1) establish a classroom environment conducive to learning; (2) make better pedagogical decisions based on good listening skills; and…

Organizational theorists have viewed organizations as "mini-societies" based upon commonly held cultural values and assumptions, which may serve to revolutionize organizational practices or to bring about new organization structures. The middle school is an example of an educational institution that has arisen as a result of a particular set of…

This paper begins by contrasting theories of teaching (which are predictive) to theories of learning (which are descriptive). It justifies the feasibility theory of distance teaching by asserting that methods of distance teaching can affect the pace and direction of learning; therefore, it should be feasible to develop a theory of distance…