Describes the Collaborative Distance Learning Support System (CODILESS) including its research objectives, the conceptual model, and its architecture. CODILESS supports collaborative and resource-based learning within the same environment by integrating asynchronous and synchronous multimedia communication with electronic resources on the local…

Examines the importance of cooperative learning in early childhood, which promotes social and academic benefits and can build supportive and more inclusive classroom communities. Suggests seven key ideas to differentiate cooperative groups from traditional groups, including interdependence, goals, grouping, and leadership, with examples from…

A number of less-usual approaches to work in biology education are discussed and illustrated. The approaches include a range of nontraditional writing activities, drawing, and model making. A rationale for such work is given and criticism leveled at these activities reviewed. Examples are drawn from the work of pupils aged 11 to 16 years.…

Discusses the labor market consequences as well as the differential literacy skills achieved by urban and minority-population recipients of alternative types of high school certification: traditional high school diplomas versus General Equivalency Diplomas (GEDs). The author concludes that, although certain vocational programs foster high school…

Many school districts have set up alternative learning centers to provide programs for students whose behavior problems keep them from functioning effectively in a traditional school program. A recent study of seven alternative middle school programs attributes program success to teacher effectiveness, focus on student learning, and smaller class…

Discusses the factors contributing to the growing demand for lifelong learning and examines the disproportionately low participation rate of minority students in the lifelong learning process. Considers the need to create, from the elementary level onward, self-directed students who are aware of their educational options. (DMM)

Examines organizational patterns for administering community services at community colleges. Identifies conditions contributing to successful organizational patterns. Suggests features of organizational development which may be helpful in analyzing community services administration and in dealing with emerging community services functions in the…

Describes Ohio's Westgate Alternative School of Academic and Physical Excellence which focuses on physical education. Westgate's philosophy is based on educating the total child--physically, intellectually, and emotionally. Physical education, critical-thinking skills, health, self-concept, self-esteem, the writing process, and lifetime learning…

Describes three alternative teacher certification programs in Los Angeles, New Jersey, and Connecticut, focusing on policy context, program elements, school-based support systems, and certification requirements. Such programs should be judged by their goals and context as well as their impact on students and the teaching profession. (SM)

To explore the mathematics knowledge of teachers from two alternative certification programs, researchers analyzed interview data from the beginning of the programs and the end of the first teaching year. Most subjects could use algorithms, but many could not explain them. They appeared ill-prepared to help students develop mathematical…

The Kentucky Governor's Scholars Program for gifted rising high school seniors is a five-week intensive living-learning experience that promotes flexible daily class schedules, active learning, student confidence, creative expression, intellectual discovery, and social responsibility. The program attempts to break down barriers between students…

Suggests ways parents can help steer their children toward the field of science, noting the current decrease in the proportion of students in science and engineering. Some of the ideas are to take children to museums, watch science specials on television, and buy toys and tools that teach. (SM)

Two teachers discuss their experiences implementing Foxfire practices in an alternative high school. One teacher was apprehensive about changing from the "traditional" approach to "student-initiated learning." The other teacher also experienced moments of doubt, but both teachers realized the benefits of the Foxfire approach…

Determined the prevalence of health-risk behaviors among Texas high school students attending dropout prevention/recovery alternative schools. Student surveys indicated that a substantial number participated in behaviors that placed them at acute or chronic health risk. There were differences in prevalence of risk behaviors by gender,…

Presents views of three faculty members at Penn State about online distance instruction. Discusses their opinions on interaction with students; whether online courses are demanding; instructional effectiveness; faculty support; student profiles; and reasons for distance education. (AEF)