Proposes guidelines for introducing enrichment materials in the Montessori classroom, focusing on the introduction of numbers to young children and recommendations for specific mathematics activities. Suggests that one reason for adding materials is to revitalize the classroom environment, as children expect novelty and change. The risk is that…

Draws parallels between Montessori's mathematical curriculum and the evolution of numbers and counting. Suggests that children share with ancient Sumerians a basic human tendency to develop "the mathematical mind." Argues that children do not need to be surrounded by math; rather, the classroom must supply them with the means to explore…

Examines circumstances under which teachers, as guardians of culture, might define themselves not as gatekeepers for the received wisdom of culture, but as keyholders who unmask authoritative knowledge and cultural domination. In this context, the article discusses the importance of student voice; mimetic, liberal, and critical teaching; and…

An integrated curriculum geometry unit, "Beyond the Surface," is presented and built around four principles promoting students' mental connections. The principles include a significant problem context, assignment of concrete, active tasks, employing tools embodying the mathematical concept, and reflection on established connections…

Presents a lesson for teaching geography and science by concentrating on the oceans. Includes topography, wave dynamics, and ratio of ocean to land mass. Focuses on geographic themes of location, place, and region. Suggests that students will visualize and manipulate information as they are introduced to concepts in physics and earth science. (DK)

Implementation of the University of Virginia Medical Center's computerized system for mandatory recordkeeping of physician orders is discussed, focusing on issues raised among residents and physicians: time required for system use; changes in work responsibilities, patterns, and priorities; and attitudes. Recommendations are made for institutions…

Results in 487 reports were integrated by meta-analysis to study characteristics of problem solvers, conditions for harder and easier problems, effects of different instructional methods on problem-solving performance, and effects of classroom-related conditions on problem-solving performance. Problem solving related positively to measures of…

Observed six children from two primary grade classrooms in different instructional settings: teacher-directed/large group; teacher- and child-directed/large and small group; and child-directed. Children's choice was related to high levels of cognitive functioning, language production, cooperative behavior, and generative use of materials. (MM)

Examines the potential role for Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) when teaching courses as functions, calculus, and linear algebra to students with low prerequisite algebra skills. A study reports the rationale, planning, and implementation of a functions course integrating Maple CAS into instruction. (MDH)

Presents study results of teaching social studies in a rural environment. Addresses size of school, teacher preparation in social studies, teacher orientation toward teaching content, and achievement scores. Concludes that teachers in rural schools have more positive opinions of their students but need additional teaching materials and inservice…

Describes a program for Russian high school students with teaching talent. Examines the program goals of (1) increasing the students' interest in becoming teachers; (2) fostering democracy in a formerly autocratic system; and (3) encouraging thought about teachers' problems. Suggests that successful teaching involves some acting talent,…

Uses a sociocultural perspective that acknowledges the many resources for children beyond school for language acquisition to describe how research about children' communities can be used to enhance bilingual instruction. Argues for the redefinition of researchers' and teachers' roles for a collaborative working relationship to bring about…

To improve urban schools, we must create a culture of success for African-American students. A multicultural education that infuses African and African-American history and culture throughout the curriculum is appropriate at this time because problems have reached such critical proportions. (SLD)

Examines issues of home education since 1970 by surveying the home school movement in the broader historical context. The 20-year growth period illustrates the fluid nature of home education as a social movement. Contemporary home schooling is not closely tied to the liberal roots of home education. (SLD)

Reviews the association between material deprivation and child abuse and considers the implications of this association for preventive strategies. It is concluded that communitywide strategies aimed at supporting all care providers are more likely to succeed than those based on at-risk groups. (SLD)