Ten mentally retarded clients in a small work activity center were effectively trained to use social amenities during work-related communications. Training consisted of prework review of the rules of social amenities, frequent reminders during work by supervisors, client repetition of the reminders, and focused practice. (Author/DB)

An experimental study designed to study a teaching system to help students develop and understand the meaning of mathematics is described. Debates, a key aspect of this method, were viewed favorably by a majority of the students. (MNS)

Ways to combine the strengths of teacher and computer are suggested. Multiplication concepts and an algorithm for multiplication are taught in the same lessons. The computer is used as an electronic chalkboard to teach at a semiconcrete level. The computer program is included. (MNS)

Describes a three-week sequence to take undergraduate students through the study of enzyme kinetics in an integrated manner that reinforces the basic concepts of initial velocity and the effects of varying operational parameters. Discusses laboratory sessions and the use of a microcomputer in instruction. (CW)

Assesses the value of a practical course in pollen analysis in the education of geography undergraduates. Discusses the difficulties and potentialities of the technique. Concludes that the course provides students with a better appreciation of past environments and environmental processes. (Author/CW)

Presents ERIC Digest No. 43 which examines the meaning of the term "Pacific Rim," reasons for emphasizing the Pacific Rim in the social studies curriculum, and useful strategies for teaching about that part of the world. Lists references, including ERIC resources, used in the digest's preparation. (GEA)

The structural linguistic approach for teaching language awareness to student teachers is compared to the semiotic approach, which explores signs and symbols rather than morphemes and phonemes. Advantages of the semiotic approach include its simple introduction and use and its exclusive focus on communication rather than disembodied linguistic…

Six papers on the use and usefulness of program evaluation conducted inside government institutions by government staff, rather than by outside contractors or university personnel, are presented. Federal, state, and local evaluation efforts in executive and legislative environments are analyzed. (TJH)

This special issues describes multidimensional scaling (MDS), with emphasis on proximity and preference models. An introduction and six papers review statistical developments in MDS study design and scrutinize MDS research in four areas of application (consumer, social, cognitive, and vocational psychology). (SLD)

Teacher training is discussed, focusing on the role of knowledge and performance in the training of skills, problems of design, and the effects of training methods. Research on the application and validity of training programs in the classroom and current knowledge of effective program components are reviewed. (TJH)

In contrast to the dominant "common elements" knowledge transfer theory, an interpretive perspective is developed, according to which appropriate transfer is socioculturally rather than objectively defined and is selective. Via a synthesis of cognitive research, thinking-skills instruction features effective in promoting transfer are identified.…

Describes an exercise to elicit student interpretations of Robert Wallace's poem, "Ungainly Things." (MM)

Literature is reviewed on augmentative and alternative communication research and intervention for individuals with severe intellectual disabilities. The review focuses on prerequisites for intervention, symbol systems and sets, computer technology, and teaching strategies. Future research directions are outlined, and clinical and educational…

The effects of pictorial advance organizers presented before reading a passage on the retention of passage information were examined for 48 children in grade 5. Those given an integrated pictorial advance organizer recalled more than did others on both immediate and delayed tests of recall. (SLD)

The effects of peer interaction and incentive structures on achievement were measured by a criterion-reference test. Subjects were 106 bank employees who were taught to read the bank's annual report. Results indicated that peer interaction has a significant effect on learning. (CH)