The project approach to learning engages students' natural bent for discovery through observation, play, hands-on tasks, and real-world challenges. Project-based learning complements systematic instruction in basic skills by making discrete bits of information relevant. Teachers must design projects that provide enough latitude for student…

Presents the first in a series of articles discussing the implementation of North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement's Performance Accreditation framework in a school setting. Offers statistical information on Holgarth Middle School, a fictitious school "located" in a suburban area in a Midwestern state. (NB)

A study involving 129 secondary general education math and special education teachers found a majority of special education teachers had not heard of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards. Teachers identified lack of adequate materials as a considerable barrier to implementation of activities based on the Standards.…

Community-oriented pedagogy, or place-based schooling, uses schools as a source of community renewal, not community disintegration; allows students to construct their own understandings through interaction with the community environment; creates creative and critical thinkers who can also meet academic standards; and addresses our society's…

Describes a social studies educator's experience in moving within the United States from the East to the West coast and how aspects of this geographic change intersected with issues and concerns in social studies education. Concludes that social studies needs to be valued and assessed in order to ensure its survival. Provides references. (CMK)

This article addresses curriculum development for students with severe, profound, and multiple learning difficulties in the context of British National Curriculum requirements. It suggests that practitioners have recognized the dangers of "complementary curricula" but are using the concept of "subjects as contexts of…

Reviews the NTTI (National Teacher Training Institute) for Math, Science and Technology model that trains teachers to use video and Internet resources to enhance math and science instruction. Discusses multimedia methodology; standards-based training; program impact in schools; and lesson plans available on the NTTI Web site. (Author/LRW)

This article focuses on children with emotional or behavior disorders in England and programs that have evolved in the 19th and 20th centuries to address their needs. Theoretical battles between supporters of a medical approach and those of the now-dominant educational model are discussed, as well as the inclusion movement. (CR)

The Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System is a damaging and dangerous "reform" with fundamental flaws: assumptions that all children undergo the same developmental process and that everyone requires the same knowledge to be successful; the fact that the guide and exams cover irrelevant material; and the idea that testing is…

This article presents specific instructional approaches and examples to develop the algebraic reasoning skills of middle and secondary students with mild disabilities. Discussion of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics standards identifies general principles, content standards, and process standards. Discussion of effective instruction…

Findings are presented from the National Center on Educational Outcomes' 1999 survey of state directors (n=48) of special education about test participation rates and factors that influence participation. More students are participating in statewide testing, however, there are factors that continue to inhibit greater participation. Recommendations…

States that the National Education Summit and the report by Public Agenda, "Standards and Accountability: Where the Public Stands," are examples of how neoliberal democracy thwarts participation by parents, teachers, students, and community members. Focuses on Public Agenda's report, parents' reactions to standards, and the idea of…

Offers twelve lessons that can be learned by examining the ideas and practices concerning the improvement of schools. Discusses the potential and complexities of each lesson in detail and provides a summary of what can be learned from U.S. history. Includes references. (CMK)

Focuses on traditional music ensembles (orchestra, bands, and choir) discussing such issues as the affects of block scheduling and how to deal with scheduling issues, the effects of funding on large ensemble programs, nontraditional ensembles in music programs, and trying to teach the National Standards for Music Education within a large ensemble.…

In 2001, Oregon was far out in front of most other states in implementing state academic standards and accountability. Certificates of initial and advanced mastery are awarded for higher levels of achievement than those required for a high school diploma. Stages in Oregon's implementation of standards-based education are described, along with…