This study investigated a causal model of second language learning, in particular, three situation-specific constructs: language class discomfort, language class risktaking, and language class sociability. Findings indicate that discomfort negatively predicted risktaking and sociability, risktaking positively predicted participation, and…

This experimental study was conducted to: (1) provide further information on the susceptibility to special preparation of three Graduate Record Examination analytical item types; (2) determine the efficacy of self-study test familiarization materials for these types; and (3) ascertain the effects of several different components of special…

Addresses the question of the degree of importance which accuracy of form has for the second-language learner. Effective techniques for focusing on form and correcting errors are discussed. The techniques are based on a grid that matches learner variables and instructional variables. (SED)

The higher education manager's situation and opportunities for growth and change are discussed. The possibilities for mobility and career advancement for higher education middle managers are reviewed. How performance appraisals may play a part in a middle manager's situation is discussed. (MLW)

Two experiments were conducted to describe effects of age and task difficulty on referential cohesion of story retellings. It was hypothesized that increased task difficulty would lead to higher error rates for all subject groups: preschoolers, first graders, and adults. Results indicated higher incidence of errors with videotape than with verbal…

Determined that the conceptions of mathematics and mathematics instruction held by three junior high school teachers played a significant role in shaping their instructional behavior. Differences among the teachers in their conceptions and practices are explained followed by a discussion of properties of their conceptual systems. (Author/JN)

Five preservice teachers' perceived sources of teaching decisions were studied as they proceeded through a secondary mathematics education methods course and through student teaching. Sources cited most often included methods course content, school textbooks, suggestions made during teaching episodes in the methods course, past teachers'…

Explores response time variations in National Library of Medicine's ELHILL bibliographic search system and analyzes statistical significance of response time in terms of its variations by day of week, hour of day, particular bibliographic file being searched, command issued by user, number of users logged onto system. Ten references are cited.…

The first two articles describe the processes employed by Open University faculty members in preparing distance education courses and in commenting on and redrafting materials. The third looks at factors that influence the decisions of faculty members to determine why they prepare their teaching materials in the ways described. (MBR)

Chicano and non-Hispanic White Children (n=171, age two and one-half years) from diverse backgrounds were tested using the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities. Mothers were interviewed for family data. Ethnic group performance differences were explained (statistically) by a combination of effects associated with ethnic differences in…

Relations among aptitude, spatial task solution strategy, and task performance were explored through mathematical models of performance latency. Different models fit different subjects on each of three task steps (encoding, synthesis, and comparison), suggesting that different subjects used different strategies for solving the same items. Aptitude…

Suggests that text anxiety is a combination of student skill deficits, emotional reactivity, and negative self-attributions. Proposes the use of multimodal approaches to reduce that anxiety. (FL)

Undergraduate student head residents and professionally trained (master's degree) head residents were compared in performance on interpersonal and administrative behaviors, judged by resident assistants and student personnel administrators. Results indicate employing undergraduate head residents may be an appropriate alternative to professionally…

Describes the use of three educational innovations--prototypes, simulations, and protocol materials--in teacher education programs. Sample lessons and evaluations of each of the innovations are provided. (Author/DB)

Statewide educational networks are core elements of states' education and telecommunications infrastructures. These networks influence educational success and contribute to a state's competitive status, economic development and general quality of life. Electronic communications networks are changing how people live and work in every state.…