Examines the characteristics of three successful urban-high-school literacy teachers. Results from interviews, literature reviews, and classroom observation reveal the following key characteristics: (1) an ability to engage students in innovative and meaningful literacy practices; (2) a high level of commitment; and (3) the perception of support…

Proposes the technique of group discussions in the learning of mathematics. Examines the teacher's role in creating an environment that encourages student participation; presents four techniques to initiate discussions in elementary school classes; and offers five attributes teachers need to develop in students for effective discussions. (MDH)

Presents a comparative review of art criticism strategies offered within the art education literature. Maintains that most strategies are characterized by three different structures: (1) sequential steps; (2) nonsequential groups of questions; and (3) lists of questions. Provides suggestions for further research. (CFR)

Contends that appropriately designed questions are essential tools in disciplining students' thoughts and reasoning ability. Discusses classroom techniques for using questioning strategies in an interdisciplinary humanities seminar. Includes questioning scenarios for seeking information, interpretation, and speculation/hypothesizing. (CFR)

This case study examined the criteria one high school physical education teacher employed in acquiring the knowledge he found necessary for his professional practice. Through interviews, observations, artifact and document analysis, and stimulated recall from videotapes, it was determined that the teacher had developed five distinct knowledge…

Discusses five variations of staff splitting, a psychological process that starts with seemingly innocent comments that fester in the subconscious of others, leading members of the staff to seek evidence of inconsistencies and individual differences. Provides explicit guidelines and insights about how to turn staff splitting into an opportunity…

Compared the effectiveness of two instructional conditions in a first-grade mathematics class: one comprised entirely of teacher-directed activities; the other including a supplemental peer practice activity. Found that both procedures were associated with divergent instructional processes and that supplemental practice with peers increased…

Study examined the effects of three grading systems on college physical education students' outcome measures in table tennis using skill tests, written tests, game play variables, class attendance, student behaviors, and attitudes toward the systems. Positive effects of the three grading systems were demonstrated on most process and outcome…

The user-friendly Classroom Ecobehavioral Assessment Instrument was developed to incorporate advantages of environmental assessment and functional assessment. Relatively simple behavior sampling procedures and scripted steps for summarizing and analyzing data lead to prescriptions for altering assessment and/or intervention practices. Results of…

Reports on a study to compare the hearing acuity of three groups of music teachers: (1) vocal; (2) elementary instrumental; and (3) high school instrumental. Finds some risk of hearing loss among high school band directors, but that the degree of risk varies widely among individuals. (CFR)

Asserts that many who work in elementary education consider social studies to be the core of the curriculum. Focuses on the use of social studies as a vehicle for curricular and instructional change, particularly in ways that promote caring and inclusion. (CFR)

Examined the priorities in early childhood education program development from the perspectives of school staff and families. The results revealed important differences between the staff and family perspectives and indicated a need for greater staff training in the processes of delivering relationship-based, consumer-driven family services, and in…

Maintains that music students who understand the historical and cultural contexts of music will present more enlightened and expressive performances. Presents recommended strategies designed to foster cultural understanding among music students. Includes a list of selected resources. (CFR)

Examined the effect of community college coursework on the beliefs and on the classroom practices of teachers in child-care centers. Results revealed that the classroom of the program participants had made significant gains. Underlines the premise that improving teachers' educational qualifications is related to improved knowledge of…

Describes the use of the writing-across-the-curriculum approach in a college psychology course. Reports on a study of the effect of summary writing exercises on 16 students. Finds that participating student scores on the final examination were eight percent higher than nonparticipating students. (CFR)