Presents an exchange between two English professors who offer opposing perspectives on the profession of English. Covers arguments on the understanding of theory, literary history, reading, curricular design, and pedagogy through the examination of Nathaniel Hawthorne's "The Minister's Black Veil." (MM)

Examines the trend of community colleges to narrow the language arts curriculum to meet a restricted definition of "literacy." Argues for a wider definition that calls upon students to become familiar with the various uses of language through reading and writing. (FL)

Discusses incorporating high technology research tools into the curriculum for grades 5 through 12 in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, public schools. The use of CD-ROM and online databases is described, teacher training is discussed, and steps to integrate this new technology are listed, including budget proposals and evaluation. (LRW)

Describes and evaluates two projects designed to update elementary and middle school mathematics programs: (1) the revision of elementary school's mathematics and computer literacy curriculum; and (2) an inservice program to train middle school teachers how to incorporate computers, calculators, and manipulatives into the classroom. (CLB)

Designed to evaluate the use of microcomputer-based labware (MBL) in junior high school science, the Computer as Lab Partner Project examined classroom experience of using MBL; system features used and curriculum designed; classroom procedures, processes, and interactions; gains and benefits of MBL use; and potential difficulties in MBL…

Discusses the teaching of biotechnology to medical students, undergraduate students and high school seniors. Suggests changes in how the basic sciences are taught in medical schools. Reviews the effects of teaching biotechnology at Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine (NEOUCOM). (CW)

A survey of a multicultural urban community investigated attitudes about the high school, including what the school should do for the students and how it should develop. Results will be used to guide the school's progress and help improve retention in grades 11 and 12. (MSE)

Describes the Microelectronics Education Programme (MEP), a plan developed to help British secondary school students learn about microcomputers and the role of technology in society, and its successor, the Microelectronics Support Unit (MESU). Highlights include curriculum development, teacher training, computer assisted instruction and the…

The reforms that are most consistent with current arrangements for school governance and administration are unlikely to foster the organizational and professional climates most conducive to student achievement. But the kinds of reforms that might engender better school conditions are inconsistent with existing controls and are, therefore, unlikely…

Discusses research, teaching, and extension opportunities for rural sociologists in current social/economic conditions of agriculture/rural America. Describes challenges to the resource base of rural sociology and ways to extend the discipline. Stresses need to expand linkages to the general scientific community and to increase communication among…

Discussion of the use of computerized databases in classroom instruction focuses on problem solving skills, student attitudes toward computers, and learning processes. A study of eighth graders is described that tested hypotheses involving the comparative analysis of data, and its implications for curriculum development and instructional methods…

Examines five factors common to elementary schools that serve as major barriers to improved reading achievement: (1) grouping practices and the inappropriate use of instructional time, (2) low teacher expectation for student learning, (3) inappropriate instructional strategies for teaching reading, (4) differential curricula, and (5) inadequate…

A year-long interdisciplinary continuity-of-care elective for second-year, preclinical students in a medically underserved inner-city neighborhood is described. Students were able to learn the skills needed to implement and evaluate long-term health care and to assess the cost effectiveness of various approaches to such care. (MLW)

The learning needs of blind and visually impaired children can be categorized into three groups: (1) needs met by adapting the curriculum; (2) needs met by changing the instructional methodology; and (3) developmental and educational needs unique to these students. (Author/CB)

The need to include specific training in administrative skills is addressed. An informal survey of ten faculty members from four Boston area colleges examined their perceptions of the role of the department chair, and their experiences with this role. The questionnaire is appended. (MLW)