Real-world problems often do not mesh well with mandated curricula and texts. Designing challenges to develop the understandings, skills, and beliefs necessary for tackling real-life problems involves a commitment to authentic learning experiences of increasing sophistication. The experiential learning cycle, by combining academic, scenario, and…

Discusses what school business officials should know concerning environmental hazards in educational facilities, particularly bloodborne pathogens (Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis B), lead in paint and water, and asbestos. The keys to managing environmental hazards are education and a knowledgeable inhouse employee or outside consultant…

Discusses groupware, a form of computer-mediated communication that supports interaction and cooperative work among group members regardless of location. Highlights include computer-supported cooperative work; electronic mail; computer conferences; group decision support systems; an example of a classroom groupware project with undergraduates; and…

This article discusses the incorporation of architectural principles into redesigning a classroom at York University (Ontario) for a mix of university students and professors/lecturers who are culturally deaf, oral deaf, hard of hearing, late deafened, and hearing. Special design features include lighting and color, noise control, furniture, and…

Reviews the literature on the design and evaluation of user interfaces on CD-ROM. Defines interfaces, dialogs and interaction and explores diversity in, and issues associated with, standardization in interface design for CD-ROMs. Reviews current criteria and guidelines for the evaluation of CD-ROM interfaces and proposes alternative guidelines.…

Eight guidelines are suggested for incorporating a contemporary issues curriculum into special education programs so that students with disabilities have the knowledge and skills to make responsible, informed life choices. Examples of possible contemporary issues are listed, and a table lists different methods of addressing contemporary issues.…

Attribute sampling can be used to audit academic library collections, clarify cataloging and access problems, evaluate allocation strategies, and make collection development decisions. Attribute sampling involves randomly sampling the physical collection and catalog records to conduct relationship tests between them. Guidelines are provided for…

Offers guidelines for planning a prototype multimedia classroom and discusses its technology components and arrangement. The prototype development is illustrated, highlighting design factors like cabinets for easy storage and accessibility; a "presentation wall" where technologies may be used and assimilated simultaneously; and…

Presents the current and preeminent policy statement of the Commission on Geographical Education of the International Geographical Union. Reiterates the vital importance of geographic education and outlines general standards for curriculum planning. Addresses a broad range of issues including fundamental concepts, research and educational…

Examines the notion of an early childhood education center organized as a series of houses around a common core of shared facilities. Discusses examples of child-care centers in Sweden and explores ideas that can promote functional facilities. Suggestions include ideas about physical-motor activities areas, administration offices, centralized…

Describes how a project in Great Britain designed to promote learner independence in English-as-a-foreign-language students clarified issues regarding the need to provide guidance in any student training program. Notes how e-mail and computer conferencing were used to encourage learners to work together, independent of the tutor, to learn English.…

A survey examined the degree to which community information systems provide consumer health information in the United Kingdom. Discusses the extent and nature of this information versus government requirements; operational details; non-healthcare information; management and decision making; procedures for updating information; health information…

Most teachers and counselors abstain from touching students because of sensitivity toward accusations of abuse and sexual harassment. The paper presents ideas for parents on teaching their children about good and bad touching, raising students' awareness, and being part of the solution. Includes guidelines for educators taken from the Pennsylvania…

This article summarizes findings regarding the use of technology in helping students with learning disabilities succeed in postsecondary education settings. It identifies specific technology recommendations found in the literature and issues related to using these recommendations in postsecondary transition. Recommendations for transition planning…

Presents the core requirements for teachers of English in Israel, which outline the core knowledge and performance that graduates and practicing teachers should shave mastered. These requirements are divided into five domains, and each of the domains includes standards. Both knowledge and performance benchmarks are defined for each standard.…