Investigates to what extent the school-level environment in Catholic schools differs from government schools in Australia. Results indicated that Catholic schools were not superior to government schools except in the areas of empowerment and mission consensus. Describes study methodology and provides tables of data. (YKH)

Highlights the experiences of three females (who were members of peer-led literature discussion groups) to examine notions of empowerment, student voice, and student silence. Finds that the discussion groups appeared to enact different conceptions of power. Discusses implications for instruction and research. (PA)

Teacher survey at 93 Saskatchewan schools involved in school improvement programs found that in the initiation phase, institutionalization of changes was associated with personal knowledge of successful innovations at other schools. The nature and quality of leadership behavior, extent of collaboration and staff involvement, and alignment with…

A study examining student feelings of empowerment in a rural Midwestern consolidated high school surveyed 54 students. Results indicate that students from the town where the school was located felt the most ownership in the school; most students were satisfied with the student council; and students were more involved in decision making in…

Explores an eight-week inquiry into the use of Retrospective Miscue Analysis (RMA) between the authors and a struggling reader in a juvenile corrections center. Outlines preparation for the RMA sessions. Finds powerful potential for empowering at-risk and troubled readers by exploring their existing strengths and from them developing greater…

This article provides guidelines and examples of effective use of inclusive language to empower students. Recommendations include focusing on the individual rather than the disability, articulating high expectations for all students, describing students in terms of academic achievements, and providing opportunities for all students to assume…

A study evaluated Parent to Parent mentoring programs in five states. The 56 parents who participated in the program showed statistically significant positive gains on measures of coping, attitude, and progress on addressing problems compared to 72 controls. A qualitative study provided insight into what makes the program work. (Contains…

Draws on the pedagogical and organizational principles and practices of nongovernmental organizations and people's organizations in the Philippines to construct four themes: critical consciousness and dialog promoted by popular education; conscientization (critical reflection) leading to personal responsibility and to political, social, and…

Documents the plight of children in poverty, examines the secondary effects of poverty upon the person and community, analyzes why the current subsidy approach has been ineffective, and seeks a holistic explanation for poverty. A universal, revenue-neutral approach to reducing poverty based on "supplementation" and…

Explores an art education program offered in two aged-care homes in South Australia. Examines the argument for the establishment of gerogogy (education for older adults). Addresses considerations of art education for older adults, the research approach, the learning model that emerged, teaching, and recommendations for further research. (CMK)

Articles in this special section by middle-school educators describe the multi-age team (MAT) experiment at a Georgia middle school from 1993 onward. In 1992, a project inspired by "Turning Points" recommendations addressing teacher and administrator empowerment was launched at another Georgia school. (MLH)

An immigrant's experience illustrates the support systems that foster self-confidence and facilitate the acquisition of communicative skills in a new language and culture. The article examines relationships among language and power, mentor and students, and impotence and empowerment in the context of learning to function effectively in U.S.…

Asserts that children can overcome fears and obstacles presented by abusive parents or violence in impoverished neighborhoods. States that while teachers cannot take away these painful struggles, they can ease negative life-experiences by creating a secure environment, increasing student self-esteem, and teaching empowerment skills to help…

This article explores ways that teachers can build competence in students who have difficulties in communicating with others, rather than focus on their deficits. Tips include ways to interpret body language, encourage group membership, ways to influence student behavior, and ways to encourage communication and independent decision making by…

A camp serving the New York City area provides year-round support and educationally based experiences for economically disadvantaged children. Evaluations indicate that campers and parents were aware of the psychological, social, and physical benefits of camping; parents and the community benefitted from children's camping experience; and setting…