Maintains that western civilization's emphasis on dualistic thinking combined with a tendency to favor the cerebral/rational over the physical/emotional has resulted in music education stressing theory over the experiential pleasure of music. Synthesizes a number of influences into a more balanced set of universal principles for music education.…

Provides a discussion of the structure and procedures of a classroom exercise using scenes from "The Grapes of Wrath," to illustrate different environmental philosophies. After viewing scenes from the film, students prepare presentations examining the Dust Bowl from one of four philosophical positions: environmental causation,…

Considers criticisms of Japanese higher education focusing on weak links between curricula and societal/professional needs. Analyzes social and policy developments in the early 1990s as they relate to system design, governance and financing, access/admission, teaching and research, relationship of education to careers, and graduate study.…

Summarizes the main points from the largest international study of innovations in the fields of science, mathematics, and technology education ever undertaken. Particularly emphasizes the changing relationships between teacher and learner and the increased value given to practical work and experiential learning. Discusses the implications for…

This article discusses "difficult discourse" or the psychological and sociological difficulties that arise in the conflict of language, ideology, and cultural identity occurring between students/families who are limited English proficient (LEP) and the American mainstream education system. A case example of a fifth-grade Asian student is provided…

This article examines the different world views and belief systems, acculturation stress, school-home discontinuity, learning styles, communication patterns, and parent participation of Native American students. The assessment and evaluation of Native American students and culturally compatible service delivery models are also discussed. (CR)

Argues that the school community must create and adhere to policies and practices that respect and support positive peer relationships. Urges promoting a respect for diversity in terms of individuals, as well as providing opportunities for peer affiliation on activity-based and interest-based levels to promote pluralism. (SD)

Presents a lesson plan examining Rachel Carson's call to arms concerning the harmful consequences of pesticides. Students view a video documentary on Carson's work and read a synopsis of her book, "Silent Spring." Assessment is provided by various activities including writing assignments, creating posters, and editorial cartoons. (MJP)

Defines evangelization as a cooperative religious educational experience regarding the efficacy of the gospel. Considers its role in the lives of young people. Concludes that evangelization must incorporate and address current social concerns as well as questions of belief and unbelief. (MJP)

Interviews with 43 Mexican American 4th- and 5th-grade students found that student beliefs about their ethnicity influenced perceptions of their social and behavioral competence, self-worth, and attitudes toward school, but were not related to their level of academic achievement. Discusses the relationship between parents' and childrens' beliefs…

Presents a consistent body of evidence to support the conclusion that, from the earliest decades of the 19th century, scientific subjects represented a significant and popular part of the curriculum in schools for girls. Includes evidence from primary and secondary sources. (MJP)

Lookism, more pervasive than sexism or racism, is the ranking of persons that attributes worth based on random variations in supposed attributes of personal attractiveness. Presents the changes educators must bring about if girls--and boys--are to break free of the humiliation of societally determined unattractiveness. (LSR)

Discusses reasons childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions and the numerous health problems that can result. Suggests parents incorporate physical activity into their family's lifestyle; advocate for daily outdoor recess at school; provide healthful meals; respect their child's appetite; not use food for comfort or as reward; and limit…

Argues that acquisition of English-as-a-Second-Language research must take into account social context and power relations in order to explain language learning processes. Uses interview data and writing samples to demonstrate how a student in South Africa is influenced in his written discourse in English by his power relations and experience as a…

Explores the attrition rate of instrumental music students between the initial grade level of instruction and grade seven. Compares retention rates between those programs that housed grades five and six in the same building and those that housed them in separate buildings. Considers implications of these findings. (MJP)