We propose a framework for evaluating the degree of authenticity of instructional tasks used within a teacher education program. First, we provide a defense for authenticity as an exemplary aspect of education. Second, we synthesize the theoretical literature on authenticity into conceptual codes. Using these codes, we build our authenticity…

Alkaloids are part of the chemical arsenal designed to protect plants against an adverse environment. Therefore, their synthesis and accumulation are frequently induced in response to certain environmental conditions and are mediated by chemical signals, which are formed as the first responses to the external stimulus. A set of experiments using…

This article serves as a foundation for understanding the earliest form of technical instruction in colonial America. It is a synthesis of historical studies that have addresses the education of indentured servants and apprentices in colonial America. It defines indentured servitude and contrasts it with apprenticeship--a form of indentured…

This synthesis report provides a historical look back over the past 15 years of alternate assessment, from the early 1990s through the mid 2000s, as reported by state directors of special education on the National Center on Educational Outcomes (NCEO) state surveys, and augmented by other research and policy reports published by NCEO and related…

This synthesis paper discusses the research exploring analogical reasoning, the role of analogies in the engineering design process, and educational applications for analogical reasoning. Researchers have discovered that analogical reasoning is often a fundamental cognitive tool in design problem solving. Regarding the possible role of analogical…

This article systematically reviews research on the achievement outcomes of four types of approaches to improving the reading of middle and high school students: (1) reading curricula; (2) mixed-method models (methods that combine large-and small-group instruction with computer activities); (3) computer-assisted instruction; and (4)…

Proposes a method for synthesizing findings within mixed-method program evaluations. The proposed method uses a set of criteria and analytic techniques to assess the worth of each data source or type and to establish what each says about program effect. Once data are on a common scale, simple mathematics allows synthesis across data sources or…

Literature reviewers should plan search strategy; quickly review retrieved material; record references; note general themes, conceptual frameworks, patterns; organize and synthesize categories; focus on goals; read material thoroughly; refine content outline; draft review; and try to retain the dynamic nature of the literature. (SK)

Complex expressions of empathy can include the thoughts, behaviors, or physical responses that accompany or contribute to the emotions. The focus of this article is to demonstrate how counselors can use empathy to integrate emotional understanding with the related thoughts, behaviors, or physical responses by different theoretical approaches.…

Synthesizes the suggestions for overcoming cultural differences described in the seven articles in this issue and comments on their significance for educational leadership. (Contains 15 references.) (PKP)

Statistical reform in school psychology research is discussed in terms of research designs, measurement issues, statistical modeling and analysis procedures, interpretation and reporting of statistical results, and finally statistics education.

While many studies attest that some teachers contribute more to their students' academic growth than other teachers, research has not been very successful at identifying the specific teacher qualifications, characteristics, and classroom practices that are most likely to improve student learning. Unfortunately, this is just the information that…

Meta-analytic structural equation modeling (MA-SEM) is increasingly being used to assess model-fit for variables' interrelations synthesized across studies. MA-SEM researchers have analyzed synthesized correlation matrices using structural equation modeling (SEM) estimation that is designed for covariance matrices. This can produce incorrect…

A critical synthesis of research literature on the process of organizational change at the institutional level is needed because higher education is being asked to respond to an ever-changing environment. This book focuses on providing key insights into the change process by presenting a common language for organizational change, describing the…