A new educational foundations course at Indiana University combines human relations training, contracting, and field experiences. Entering students are given a course overview, assigned to an area school for six hours per week, and pretested using various personality instruments. The class is subdivided into reference groups, with one full-time…

This skill laboratory provides a technique for problem definition and alternative methods to gather pertinent data that surrounds a given situation. Seven skills are discussed including Kaufman's tri-level needs assessment model, intergroup building, organizational slice, force field analysis, brainstorming, problem definition, and conflict…

Based on the contract grading system, this language arts course guide focuses on reading, writing, research, and film projects on topics which give people the "heebie-jeebies" and for which students earn points toward a final grade. Point values are dependent on the difficulty of the project or the length of the reading material. Contents of the…

The study compared the relationship of the contract plan of student evaluation and a traditional type of evaluation, for changes in knowledge and attitudes during a college course in ecological relationships. The Syracuse Environmental Awareness Test was used to measure both cognitive and affective changes. In the experimental group the contract…

Adaptations of and variations on the grade contract system are described with emphasis on individualized instruction, fair evaluation, and learner-oriented classes. The method used is described, and results are assessed. (Author/RM)

Describes an alternative grading system that sets a basic quantity for "C" grades and quality as well as quantity requirements for "B" and "A" grades. Reports positive results from using such a grading system in a freshman poetry course. (RL)

The contractual competency program is designed to develop and assess the understanding and ability to apply the basic concepts of physical activity. This is done through a program of self-assessment and the subsequent planning and implementation of an individualized program of physical activities and experiences. (JD)

Attempts to present an overview of the accountability models presently being considered, along with their shortcomings. Gives major criticisms of the accountability movement and develops a model of accountability that would be most workable, given the state of the art for meeting educational and statistical criteria necessary to evaluate and…

Testing of a modified contract instructional method (contract, instructional objectives, self-test) with a traditional procedure supports the contention that, for a population of underachieving junior high school students, the modified contract procedure constitutes a more effective teaching method. (Author/MJB)

Describes a contract grading technique which includes assigned and optional laboratory work and the grades attached thereto. (SL)

The Carmen Millan School (Puebla, Mexico) was established to meet the high intellectual faculties of gifted students through development of willingness to learn, oral expression, talent, and the ability to plan systematically. Special education teachers act as monitors of learning contracts developed for students during school and during…

Explains John Wood Community College's (JWCC's) common market approach to educational cooperation, which allows students to access higher education at participating area colleges via educational service contracts. Considers the growth of JWCC and its institutional linkages. Offers a checklist of key activities for community-based contract…

The authors propose matching selected models of individualized instruction (academic domain) to varying degrees of student self-control (behavioral domain) for behaviorally disordered children. The specific models discussed include tutoring, programmed instruction, personalized systems of instruction, and contracting. (Author/CL)

Discusses the use of performance contracts to teach reading to secondary school students in classes classified as "corrective,""developmental," and "enrichment." (HOD)

Motivating music students to practice is a perennial concern for teachers and parents. Behavioral contracts, in which the teacher or parent guarantees a certain reward in return for the student completing a designated task, is one solution. How to construct a contract is discussed. A sample contract is included. (RM)