Track cards are manipulative materials used to promote verbalization, spatial perception, eye-hand coordination, simple problem solving, and fun in doing mathematics. (JT)

Examines the Indiana University Global Studies Project, an experimental alternative to world geography or world studies textbooks for junior high schools. The approach taken in the Global Studies materials is: global, topical, contemporary/futuristic, and activity-oriented. Some sample lessons are included. (Author/JK)

This study focuses on the ways in which various methods of instruction affect elementary school children's political attitudes and knowledge toward the regime level--values (goals and principles), norms, and structure of authority--of the political system. (MJB)

Results of the Patient Encounter Project are reported, which documented all clinical experiences of 36 medical students for seven months in the Rural Physician Associate Program and compared these experiences with those of a control group of 26 third-year students in the regular curriculum at the University of Minnesota.

Addresses problems associated with biology fieldwork and the teaching of ecology. Points out the need for the development of an objective approach in evaluating the effectiveness of fieldwork exercises. Reports on the evaluation of concept education by transect exercises. (ML)

Addresses the relationship of fear to certain outdoor adventure activities that are a part of some environmental education programs. Describes the construct of fear, its use in outdoor environmental programs, and the results of two recent studies on fear. (TW)

The article discusses a hands-on, multisensory science curriculum developed from the adaptation and merging of two curricula for handicapped elementary students (ages 9-13): Science Activities for the Visually Impaired (SAVI) and Science Enrichment for Learners with Physical Handicap (SELPH). The nine modules comprising the SAVI/SELPH materials…

Stresses that books used to teach about a specific subject area (e.g. history, science, geography) should be judged not only for their focus on the subject but also for their literary quality. (SRT)

Provides a compilation of recommended field guides which deal with birds, mammals, trees, and wildflowers. Each recommended volume is described, noting its distinguishing features and evaluating its organization, photography, and text. Includes the author, publisher, and suggested retail price. (TW)

Self-assessment offers an important element for programs seeking to serve adult learners and is a key principle of the School for New Learning, DePaul University. Four strategies to develop self-assessment skills are discussed: storytelling, development of standards, dialogue, and inquiry. (MLW)

Strategies for bringing knowing and doing together in the context of a seminar for students who are doing part-time internships along with their other courses are offered. Two students write and reflect about their own learning during their internships. (MLW)

Describes a field trip in which 6th grade students traveled to Florence, Italy. Delineates the planning necessary to make such trips beneficial and rewarding, identifying the responsibilities of teachers, parents, students, and the school administration. Argues that international field trips offer unparalleled opportunities for growth in both…

Suggests that many reading problems may be caused by insufficient background knowledge rather than lack of reading skills. Provides suggestions about how teachers can integrate concepts and materials from social studies into their reading lessons to build students' background knowledge. (ARH)

Reviews principles of rational behavior therapy. Presents model for changing the way one feels by changing the way one thinks for use by experiential educators during rockcraft, caving, or high ropes course briefings/debriefings to teach students to think rationally, feel more positive about themselves, and take responsibility for their lives.…

Describes ways to enhance a school's outdoor facilities to provide more educational opportunities: nesting boxes, ground water monitoring holes, nature's "swamp shop," soil studies, weather stations, wildlife habitat improvement, forestry practices, aquatic resources, archaeological dig sites, horticulture demonstration areas, outdoor…