In this practical guide to service learning, 21 contributors describe specific service-learning projects that have enhanced the curriculum in schools across the United States and that have improved student learning in the process. In the Foreword, U.S. Secretary of Education, Richard W. Riley, encourages schools to incorporate service learning…

Students in a poor, rural county in South Carolina worked with their community to build a new volunteer fire station, enabling many residents to get fire insurance. The project enabled students to see the relevance of education and to be seen as solutions to problems rather than as problems, generated enthusiasm among students toward the community…

The philosophy behind adult literacy in Zanzibar is that adult literacy is a process whereby the illiterate is empowered to become aware of his or her potential. Literacy activities emphasize a relation to work, sometimes known as functional literacy. Specific objectives of literacy programs are to improve living conditions, impart self-reliant…

High/Scope has a long history of curriculum development, training, and research in the area of infant and toddler development. This book explores how the approach can be implemented with infants and toddlers in group care settings. Following an introduction outlining the history of and principles guiding the High/Scope Infant and Toddler Approach,…

This action research project investigated the use of various methods of teaching as a means of developing an integrated curriculum to address the lack of transfer skills among kindergarten students. Evidence of the problem included the deficiency of skills demonstrated on academic assessments, teacher observations, and anecdotal records. Analysis…

This study was designed to explore changes in students' problem-solving skills as they analyzed instructional design case studies during a semester-long course. Nineteen students at two Midwestern universities analyzed six to ten case studies as part of their course assignments. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected, with students'…

Argues that developing writing activities, consulting with students as they work on a major writing project, and responding are important vehicles for teaching that fosters engaged learning. Central principles are to make assignments inquiry- or issue-based, to keep them focused but open enough for students to develop their own angle or interest,…

Notes some of the problems and payoffs involved in adding brief field projects to political science classes. Recommends a variety of activities including attending a public forum, community meeting, or legislative session. Students view first-hand how these organizations operate and sharpen their research skills. (MJP)

Describes the use of the principles of challenging work, student autonomy, and student collaboration to involve students in constructing mathematical meaning as part of the regular curriculum. Challenge is created by the material and by the classroom environment to encourage student interest and thinking. Autonomy is encouraged by leading students…

The traditional lecture format of college courses can be enhanced by including active learning designed to further course goals of learning knowledge, developing skills, or fostering attitudes. Techniques suggested include using pauses, short writing periods, think-pair-share activities, formative quizzes, lecture summaries, and several assessment…

In a doctoral pharmacy course, student pairs were assigned presentations on topics related to specific anemias or blood disorders, and given one-and-a-half hours to present the material, with posters as visual aids, and to answer questions. The method is seen as promoting active learning, critical thinking, and professional presentation skills,…

Describes an in-class activity where children and their parents are invited to an undergraduate child development class. The children's ages match the developmental stages that the class is studying. The parents/children discuss various issues with the students. Briefly outlines some of the discussion patterns that occur. (MJP)

Outlines a dozen alternative formats for oral book reports that can turn this often boring ritual into an engaging learning experience. These creative formats emphasize the inherently important concepts of the books and build in listener accountability through authentic assessment. The formats include creating comic books, mock trials, and…

Contends that student motivation is a major issue for all teachers but is of particular concern for middle school social studies teachers. Reports on an interview with 18 middle school teachers and 60 middle school students on the effectiveness of strategies designed to increase motivation. (CFR)

Contends that teen courts offer powerful lessons in civic responsibility and that more than 150 are operating nationwide. Discusses establishment and educational strategies used in teen courts. Concludes that this law-related education program provides a creative solution to the delinquency dilemma. (CFR)