Argues for the establishment of "African-centered" schools on an experimental basis, in direct consultation and partnership with students, educators, administrators, and the local community. Maintains that most mainstream public schools reinforce concepts and values of the dominant culture and alienate students of color. (MJP)

The "folkehojskoler," innovative Scandinavian secondary schools based on radical humanistic ideas, are examined from both empirical and philosophical perspectives, focusing on three elements: ideology; the student experience; and the teaching culture. Implications for goals, objectives, assumptions, forms, and practices in American…

Despite the success of Japan's educational system in terms of academic achievement, a closer examination reveals a rigid system that discourages student expression and creativity, stresses conformity, ignores differences in student abilities, and supports an intensively competitive entrance system for high school and college. Discusses negative…

Two teacher educators interviewed 10 elementary teachers regarding their belief systems about the teaching/learning process, examining the extent to which their instruction reflected their beliefs and noting challenges to implementing instructional strategies that complemented their philosophies. Results indicated that teachers' theoretical…

Asserts that the sociology of education is fraught with noncommunicating paradigms. Outlines this paradigm split from a critical theory perspective. Discusses the use of history to support education reform efforts. (CFR)

Examines home and church learning of indigenous Ethiopians, the Amara Welloye, and the richness of this indigenous education as a foundation in building an effective educational system for present-day Africans. Indigenous learning is vital to transmission of values that Africans consider essential in understanding and experiencing life's fullness.…

Politicians and educators recommend significant improvements in scientific and mathematical competency so Americans can be more competitive in tomorrow's high-tech economy. The article outlines shortcomings of current change proposals and describes an alternative that integrates various kinds of knowing, including science and technology, into an…

Describes backgrounds, educational philosophies, and the relationship between the 2 for 18 exemplary African-American teachers in 2 ethnographic studies emphasizing effects of differences in background. Teachers' knowledge of community norms and the position of the community within the larger society explains much of their success with students.…

Describes the terms and benefits of the 1889 Welsh Intermediate and Technical Act. Regards the Act as a victory for the Welsh middle class and Nonconformists because it produced a secondary school system free from Church of England influence and recognized Welsh national identity. Notes that the Act emphasized equal education for girls. (CH)

Shows how discipline-based art education developed, and relates it to Thomas S. Kuhn's theory of paradigm shifts. Critiques Gilbert Clark, Michael Day, and W. Dwaine Greer's theory of disciplined-based art education and highlights mistaken notions in the inquiry methods of curriculum specialists. Concludes that art educators should focus on how…

An elementary school teacher changed his teaching approach to one based on John Dewey's philosophy that science should be taught as a method of inquiry, not as a fixed body of knowledge. Students were encouraged to formulate scientific questions and work together in establishing experimental procedures. (LP)

Examines the changes and challenges accompanying increased attention to early childhood education during the past several years. Interest has been piqued by the first national educational goal (readiness), big business concerns, and professionals' reexamination of the field. The authors in this special "Kappan" section examine issues…

Describes an assignment for an education course in which students assume the role of prominent educational theorists. A librarian introduces students to a variety of library resources in the field of education, which they use to find background information on their selected theorist, prepare a formal in-character speech, and participate in an…

Responds to Enid Zimmerman's article, "Questions about Multiculture and Art Education." Argues time and resource limitations dictate that teachers determine art curricula. Maintains that other examples of fabric art can teach what the NAMES project (AIDS Memorial Quilt) offers without the controversial perspective. (KM)

Introduces the journal issue's articles and their theme that focuses on the controversy over university practices and mission in responding to changing demographics in a multicultural society. Reviews positions of Eurocentric traditionalists and multicultural perspective proponents. Urges that higher education broaden the constituency of…