Compared the effectiveness of two instructional conditions in a first-grade mathematics class: one comprised entirely of teacher-directed activities; the other including a supplemental peer practice activity. Found that both procedures were associated with divergent instructional processes and that supplemental practice with peers increased…

Study examined the effects of three grading systems on college physical education students' outcome measures in table tennis using skill tests, written tests, game play variables, class attendance, student behaviors, and attitudes toward the systems. Positive effects of the three grading systems were demonstrated on most process and outcome…

The user-friendly Classroom Ecobehavioral Assessment Instrument was developed to incorporate advantages of environmental assessment and functional assessment. Relatively simple behavior sampling procedures and scripted steps for summarizing and analyzing data lead to prescriptions for altering assessment and/or intervention practices. Results of…

Reports on a study to compare the hearing acuity of three groups of music teachers: (1) vocal; (2) elementary instrumental; and (3) high school instrumental. Finds some risk of hearing loss among high school band directors, but that the degree of risk varies widely among individuals. (CFR)

Asserts that many who work in elementary education consider social studies to be the core of the curriculum. Focuses on the use of social studies as a vehicle for curricular and instructional change, particularly in ways that promote caring and inclusion. (CFR)

Examined the priorities in early childhood education program development from the perspectives of school staff and families. The results revealed important differences between the staff and family perspectives and indicated a need for greater staff training in the processes of delivering relationship-based, consumer-driven family services, and in…

Maintains that music students who understand the historical and cultural contexts of music will present more enlightened and expressive performances. Presents recommended strategies designed to foster cultural understanding among music students. Includes a list of selected resources. (CFR)

Examined the effect of community college coursework on the beliefs and on the classroom practices of teachers in child-care centers. Results revealed that the classroom of the program participants had made significant gains. Underlines the premise that improving teachers' educational qualifications is related to improved knowledge of…

Describes the use of the writing-across-the-curriculum approach in a college psychology course. Reports on a study of the effect of summary writing exercises on 16 students. Finds that participating student scores on the final examination were eight percent higher than nonparticipating students. (CFR)

Identifies four components of a quality visual arts program. Discusses four components of leadership necessary to develop and maintain such a program. Includes a table describing 12 leadership skills. (CFR)

The direction provided by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics'"Professional Teaching Standards," in the section on evaluating-teaching standards, is considered with respect to the issues of context, the definition of good teaching, and the link between mathematics and pedagogy. (MDH)

This study reports on the science achievement and attitudes of seventh- and eighth-grade students whose teachers were considered exemplary. Results show that this group of students, compared to national populations, had higher scores in science knowledge and more positive science attitudes. These students need opportunities to make connections…

Reviews and compares "Gender and Mathematics" edited by Leone Burton and Valerie Walkerdine's book "Schoolgirl Fictions" on proposed truths related to gender issues in mathematics. Issues include (1) attention given to boys and girls in mathematics class; (2) the effects of noncompetitive classroom environments; and (3) sex differences in…

Two studies are reported in which supervisor observations of teachers' performance rate and accuracy were found to result in positive changes in teacher performance and the behaviors of their severely handicapped students (ages 6-21), when compared with baseline supervisor observations that did not specify rate and accuracy feedback. (Author/JDD)

New York State physical educators completed surveys regarding moonlighting. About 83 percent reported some moonlighting, and over half held several moonlighting jobs; most held multiple school jobs. The most common reasons for moonlighting during school were professional responsibility and enjoyment. They did not believe it detracted from…