Constructive-developmental theory, with its emphasis on epistemology and cognitive complexity, explicitly links learning and developmental growth. One model, which identifies five shifts in perception throughout the life span, describes some of higher education's values and objectives. The theory offers a promising direction for student evaluation…

Explores the potential of partnerships to increase the influence and effectiveness of student services. Outlines effective internal partnerships, such as those involving advising and marketing, and productive external partnerships, such as those involving businesses and recruitment. Argues that partnerships work when they are part of an overall…

Drawing on students' experiences, examines ways that Electronic Discussion Lists (EDLs) can enhance a sense of community on a college campus. Provides a brief history of electronic mail and discussion groups and outlines the uses of EDLs, such as its effectiveness in voicing complaints and in clarifying values. (RJM)

Presents a rationale for student affairs professionals to serve as campus consultants on learning. Identifies particular areas in which they can work with students and faculty as consultants and also provides examples. Discusses assessment, student peer groups, conflict resolution, faculty development, student learning, collaborative efforts, and…

Relates children's experiences with parents and teachers to the acquisition of academic skills from preschool through second grade. Children tended to show better academic skills across time if their parents had more education and reported progressive parenting beliefs. Family background and teacher-child relationships indicated that a closer…

Discusses the connection between economics and decision making in everyday life. Compares basic economic concepts such as choices, scarcity, opportunity costs, indirect costs, and decision making to the choices that students make in their personal lives. Maintains that through the study of economics, students can become responsible decision…

The University of Vermont's approach to collaboration in professional development has been to establish specific schools as field sites. By sharing perspectives, knowledge, and resources, the schools and university can enrich practice for preprofessional students, professional teachers, and professors of education, with programs evolving in…

A survey of 73 parents, most having gifted children, examined perceptions of the development of leadership abilities. Parents identified: leader characteristics; their children's strongest and weakest areas of leadership skills; methods for encouraging leadership development; school opportunities for leadership experiences; the role of teachers,…

Current research and literature--most either psychological or sociological--on the college student is discussed. The monocultural focus of most research and the lack of process models to guide implementation of theory are described. (Author/MLW)

Student activities professionals have a role in teaching ethics on campuses. Teaching ethics is defined as "the process of teaching ethical decision making." Karen Strohm Kitchener's "Model of Ethical Decision Making" provides a framework to be used when looking at an ethical problem. (MLW)

Underscores the importance of both access to education and educational quality to student success. Urges student development educators to advise students honestly and retain the special mission of community colleges to meet individual student needs. (DMM)

Assesses stability in achievement-related beliefs, emotional experiences, and task behavior from one grade to the next in 77 fourth- and fifth-grade students. Results indicate that task behavior and some beliefs and emotional experiences were predictable from one year to the next. (RJC)

The Schmerenbeck Multi-Racial Educational Centre (South Africa) implemented "Integrated Arts Workshops" to develop the creative thinking of gifted/talented children. Professional artists and teachers are brought together with groups of children, and ideas are explored through sensory stimulation, creative problem-solving, and reflection.…

Describes a method used to help students clarify and resolve problems related to their study habits. The "Plan-Making" process involves reality therapy, identifying characteristics of a good plan (e.g., simple, specific, repetitious, independent, and immediate), selecting areas of need, and individual conferences. Reviews student responses to the…

This speech examines the image of the university as a powerful center of knowledge in the contexts of both the traditional university and the modern research university. The institution's role in thinking and research, personal growth, and social change are discussed, especially as these areas interrelate and can create an exciting intellectual…