Describes a secondary course on "American Pluralism" which emphasizes both content and process. The content and primary source readings, and how these lend themselves to students' use of interpretive skills are discussed. Examples from the test developed to evaluate the course are provided. (RM)

During the past decade, two issues have dominated national debate on education: (1) the existence of substantial gaps in academic achievement between White and non-White students; and (2) the contention that, compared to family background, schools don't make much difference in the academic performance of poor and minority students. (JN)

A survey of 909 university students revealed that the most important physical education objectives were: keeping in good health and physical condition, getting regular exercise, having fun, and improving self-confidence. (CJ)

The authors discuss research findings concerninq the potential of computer-assisted instruction in training programs. Research studies concerned levels of skill acquisition, retention of learned materials; and cost effectiveness. (CT)

This article explores indicators which will reveal if organizations are ready to deal with the change implied in undertaking a quality circle (QC) program. It discusses characteristics of successful QC programs and lists readiness indicators which include internal project staffing, openness from management, time commitment, and financial…

Discusses a study to determine the effects of furnishing taped alternatives to textbook learning in social studies classes on the junior high school level. Results indicated that listening alternatives are useful addenda to instruction in social studies classes. (DB)

Presents data concerning social validation of an empirically based training model for increasing job-interview skills. The model was easily employed as an effective training procedure. Student participants reported high levels of consumer satisfaction and identified several components of the model as being most beneficial. (Author)

Describes an activity in which eighth graders explored color relationships in art. Students selected their favorite pieces of art work, redrew and redesigned the artists' composition, and then painted them using completely different color schemes. Student confidence in their own artistic judgment and capabilities increased. (AM)

Describes the results of a survey which asked music therapists what goals they most frequently established for children in their programs. The goals were: to improve gross and fine-motor skills, to encourage cooperation with peers and adults, to increase ability to follow directions, and to encourage active participation. (AM)

Discusses the need for systematic training in critical thinking skills in English universities. The author argues that there is little recognition given for this skill because it is not considered socially valuable. Most teachers do not know how to do it themselves, and few are trained to teach it. (AM)

A program for teaching reading offered courses for teachers during after-school hours and in the summer. The success of the program was demonstrated at the end of the year when more than 90 percent of the children passed the basic competency reading tests. (JN)

Study results indicate that proficiency needs of teachers of composition include: (1) teaching/learning strategies for improving student writing ability; (2) applying the writing processes to their own as well as to student writing; and (3) evaluating student writing performance. Findings indicate that teachers need to engage in considerable…

Describes a reading scheme in which seventh-grade students engage in sustained silent reading for one class period per week and the reading gains made by the students in the first six months of the year. (HTH)

Annotates 16 children's books that have as their main thrust the development of children's visual awareness through puzzles, pictures, and games. (FL)

Describes a project designed to assist 12- to 14-year-old students in developing abstract reasoning skills in math and science via interactive computer programs. Examples of learning modules designed to be run on microcomputers are included. Seven references are listed. (MER)