Conducted a study to determine the value of using metaphors to understand learning environments, determine if prospective elementary teachers gain an understanding of traditional and constructivist learning environment research, and explore the implications for teacher education. Reports that the use of metaphors helped teachers understand and…

During employment interviews, the principal's two major roles are encouraging effective communication and measuring the data collected. Communication requires a relaxed atmosphere, focus on the interview purpose, and active listening by both parties. To measure response adequacy, the interviewer must decide whether the question was truly answered…

Ten evaluation models are examined in terms of their applicability to investigative, emergent design programs: Stake's portrayal, Wolf's adversary, Patton's utilization, Guba's investigative journalism, Scriven's goal-free, Scriven's modus operandi, Eisner's connoisseurial, Stufflebeam's CIPP, Tyler's objective based, and Levin's cost…

Examines the relationship between maternal-report measures of referential vocabulary and observational measures of referential vocabulary and usage in 8 first-born middle-class children at 50 and 100 words. Results indicate that, although this measure can be reasonably reliable, such measures tend to exaggerate the relative importance of common…

Describes two chief alternative models of English instruction, critical theory, and constructivism or naturalistic inquiry. Discusses the functions of genre in disciplinary communities. Argues that naturalistic inquiry does not constitute a comprehensive corrective to the legacy of positivism. (HB)

The Communication Observation Schedule (COS) records systematically the pragmatics of communication with children who have deaf-blindness and are functioning from the prelanguage to true words level. The COS provides the opportunity to record the purpose of an interaction, who initiates and who responds to it, the mode of response, and whether the…

Discusses a teaching experiment with (n=19) senior and graduate mathematics students. Analysis suggests that students' difficulties with the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus stem from impoverished concepts of rate of change and from poorly developed and coordinated images of functional covariation and multiplicatively constructed quantities.…

Nine comprehensive observations were conducted of 24 preschoolers (8 with disabilities) in free play settings, with social behavior categories based on the work of Strain. Comparison of partial and complete observational records demonstrated that at least five observations were required to represent the children's social behavior adequately.…

Examines effectiveness of structured groups as collaborative approach to developing problem-solving and interpersonal communication skills of remedial college students. Participants were primarily first-generation black, Hispanic, or female college students. Results were inconclusive but suggest need for larger sample and more appropriate outcome…

Evaluators using a naturalistic orientation observe a teacher's performance within the context of other lessons and interactions, view teacher observation and evaluation as processes rather than outcomes, and see events from the teacher's perspective. Principals can increase objectivity by recognizing the effects of their attitudes and experiences…

Presents three types of peer coaching as a staff development approach for physical educators that is usable at all levels on an individual, school, or districtwide basis. Peer coaching helps teachers feel less isolated, use educational practices effectively, use educational reflection positively, and develop professional collegiality. (SM)

Suggests that experimental studies are valuable in analyzing children's language development. Criticizes the scarcity of experimental and naturalistic investigation into preschool language development. Calls for long-term study of continuity and discontinuity in children's school and home learning and between different school stages. Observes that…

Describes a formative and reciprocal partnership that can help librarians with similar experience and knowledge develop their instructional skills through peer coaching. A literature review; program guidelines; choosing partners; the process of classroom observation; and the provision of descriptive, nonevaluative feedback are covered. (23…

Observers used two Q-sorts to describe mothers' and infants' behavior at home. Mothers of more difficult children were less sensitive than other mothers. There was a strong relation between maternal sensitivity and infant attachment. Mothers of more secure infants noticed and enjoyed their babies more than mothers of less secure infants. (BC)

Discusses a study of systematic observation instruments designed to assess characteristics of children's physical activity related to health. The article identifies 8 instruments designed for children from 20 months to sixth grade and examines the advantages of direct, naturalistic observation. Recommendations for improving the current…