Two major initiatives have influenced language teaching programs in the United States and Canada. The U.S. model is based on preestablished descriptions of language proficiency for different levels, whereas the Canadian model adopts a multidimensional approach emphasizing content more than outcomes and highlighting culture. (SLD)

The design and evaluation of an optometry practice management course at Hong Kong Polytechnic are described. The course includes lectures and small group projects on specific ethics and management topics. A survey of participants found they preferred group projects, with elements of peer teaching and seminar approaches, to traditional lectures.…

There is an emerging curriculum vision that transcends the subject-centered and multidisciplinary approaches characterizing most junior high schools and middle schools. This article addresses practical issues (course content, teacher identities, planning, classroom life, and larger purpose) that have arisen around the integrative curriculum…

This article addresses the educational need for knowledge about language differences and the role that school-based speech-language pathologists can play in mainstream education about language differences. A pilot language awareness program for fourth and fifth graders, which includes humanistic, scientific, and cultural objectives, is described.…

Presents a case study of two urban community college students from different cultural backgrounds who came to blows during their hydraulics laboratory because of cultural misunderstandings. Explains the school's disciplinary response. Discusses lessons learned from the event and the implications of cultural misperceptions for curriculum planning.…

Issues to be considered in evaluating a program for the musically gifted are presented as a series of questions evaluators and teachers in the field should ask. The following are considered: (1) student characteristics; (2) participant evaluation; (3) curriculum development; (4) teacher characteristics; and (5) outcomes. (SLD)

Recommends academic history departments review present course listings and devise more structured programs. Describes four one-semester core courses designed to promote world history perspectives. Includes a brief outline for each course. Reviews past college and university history department programs and changes in the curriculum since the 1960s.…

Argues the integrity and authenticity of popular music should be maintained in school choral programs. Explores the nature of this challenge. Suggests examples of popular artists whose music and styles fit into school choral programs. Identifies popular music terms teachers should understand and considers aspects of teacher training. Selects…

Investigates the role of social studies department heads and principals in five schools involved in a project studying higher-order thinking skills. Identifies similarities and differences between department heads and administrators. Develops indicators of the success of the five schools in promoting higher-order thinking in social studies…

Offers a report on Visions for Children--an early childhood demonstration program with the goal of facilitating intellectual development and academic achievement and enhancing self-concepts of African-American preschoolers. Base-line data from the first two phases of child testing comparing program participants and control group children is…

The National Core French Study, a four-year curriculum project sponsored by the Canadian Association of Language Teachers and government-funded, resulted in the recommendation of a multidimensional curriculum model based on a communicative/experiential approach. The model and its implications for professional development, program design, and…

Argues institutionalizing international education begins at the course level. Considers strategies for adding an international component to community college education, including incorporating international modules into existing courses; revising the requirements for particular majors; and reforming the general education curriculum. (DMM)

Offers an annotated bibliography of recent ERIC documents and journal articles on international education, including articles providing general overviews, and others describing curriculum development efforts, international business education programs, programs for foreign students, and international student exchange. (DMM)

Asserts that art education promotes high culture and ignores popular culture and is thereby precluded from making a positive contribution to students' lives. Outlines the principles for a socially relevant art education. Maintains that such an art education would contribute critically to the meanings, values, and beliefs students form with…

Presents three articles that describe the use of storytelling and oral histories in junior and senior high schools: (1) a project that emphasizes family and community history using storytellers; (2) using tape recorders to gather oral histories and write a book; and (3) storytelling ideas for librarians to use in a variety of classes. (seven…