A summer program for gifted and talented students combined students' interests in writing and computers, as students worked together to create a "Choose Your Own Adventure" book, using computer word processing, graphics, and publishing programs to produce the book. (JDD)

This study of the effectiveness of the Project Success Summer Program found that the eight-week program improved dyslexic adults' (n=63) reading and spelling scores in five areas. Results indicated that training in phonological skills improved decoding skills and that passage reading rates and individual word reading rates best predicted…

Presents a model of integrated residential camping, providing a resource for other models. The model program creates an inclusionary environment responsive to the needs and interests of children with and without disabilities. Parental responses, anecdotal information on interactions, and descriptions of changes in attitudes are included. (SM)

Charleston (South Carolina) Southern University has developed a summer enrichment program for gifted and motivated middle school students focusing on the science-based and mathematics-based professions, especially engineering and research. The program provides special motivational advantages to young girls through individual attention and…

Ripon College (Wisconsin) has developed "colearner" classes as part of the Advance College Experience held each summer for academically able and motivated children. Two classes (in ornithology and computer programing/problem solving) were offered to 15 children and their adult partners (parents, other relatives, or friends). Special…

This study of 905 academically talented students (ages 12-16) who completed a 1-year course in high school biology, chemistry, or physics in a 3-week summer program found that the fast-paced courses effectively prepared subjects to accelerate in science and that talented students could begin high school sciences earlier than generally allowed.…

A survey of 44 secondary level students who attended a summer camp for gifted/talented youth analyzed reasons that campers did not enroll in certain course offerings, ideas for future course offerings, occupational areas of interest, the extent of racism in the schools, and the amount of drug use in the schools. (JDD)

Reports on a three-year study conducted by two site directors of the National Writing Project in northern Arizona. Examines the effects, both immediate and longitudinal, of the Summer Institute on the fellows' attitudes and concerns about teaching writing. Shows that significant progress was made over time. Illustrates this claim with a case…

The Postgraduate Institute on Comprehensive Health Education improved inservice training for health teachers, bringing them together with health researchers and expanding the coverage of health education topics and health skills. Pre- and posttest data indicated that participants increased the number of health topics and health skills taught in…

Describes an academic-enrichment program that targets underrepresented secondary students and strives to increase their competence in science and technology, potential for leadership, allegiance to local communities, and interest in post-secondary careers in the health sciences. Contains 22 references. (WRM)

School-to-Work programs can help camps address the chronic shortage of support staff and can provide funding for the training and support of teenage staff. One camp's success with teen workers was based on collaboration with families and local schools and agencies, staff cooperation, and administrative willingness to stretch job roles. Benefits to…

To explore cultural influences on giftedness, a study was conducted of 20 culturally diverse children (ages 3-5) attending a specialized summer program for bright preschoolers. Observed behaviors are described, illustrated by examples in context, categorized as to epistemological orientation, and related to Gibson's human behavior hallmarks.…

Describes the Voyager Program, a national educational initiative supporting elementary schools and teachers by providing essential supplies and a research-based curriculum. Reviews the role of selected community colleges in providing support for summer and after-school programs. (JDI)

Describes a curriculum design approach, "the ill-structured problem," based on real life situations, that was used for a summer gifted foreign language program for fifth- and sixth-grade students in the Chesapeake Public Schools, Virginia. Elements of problem-based learning are described, including the problem comes first, the problem is…

Describes the development of a week-long summer computer camp for middle school students at the University of West Florida. Highlights include practicum experience for college students; the learning model; curriculum plans; day-by-day activities, including email, digital cameras, PowerPoint, Web pages, and technology integration; and suggested…