Describes a research program in which high school students act as individual investigators on scientific projects. Probes how to better introduce current scientific research topics and methodologies into the classroom. Provides an example using fractals. (MVL)

Reports on the design, implementation, and evaluation of a teleseminar on instructional design and computer-mediated communication (CMC) at the University of Southern Queensland (Toowoomba, Australia). Results show that CMC was a viable medium for professional development, that moderation of strategies influenced the nature of contributions, and…

Describes the history, construction, and use of a diffusion cloud chamber to detect and study radioactive materials. (MKR)

It is only during the later years of high school study that aspects of science describing materials behavior become relevant to later studies in engineering. A new system of teaching and learning science, with examples drawn from basic principles of materials behavior, is shown to be commensurate with these requirements. (LZ)

Evaluates the results of an experiment with comprehensive project-organized and problem-based engineering education at Aalborg University that has lasted for 20 years. Several independent evaluations show that the graduates are more readily adaptable, with strong qualities in the field of problem-solving, cooperation, communication, and…

Presents teacher-tested techniques for making phonics part of helping students learn to read. Suggestions include writing to read, working with storybook text, using techniques that utilize many senses, and making phonics only one part of a balanced reading program. Resources for obtaining phonics materials are included. (SM)

The Georgia School Counselor Evaluation Program was developed in response to a legislative requirement to provide annual performance evaluations for all school counselors. The evaluation program is composed of two instruments and a set of procedures to ensure equitable evaluation for all counselors. (SLD)

At Iowa State University, the effects of a peer-coaching in-service model on teachers' use of a complex teaching technique were studied and the perceptions of 11 teachers and 2 principals were determined. Results demonstrate that the peer-coaching model shows promise for increasing teacher effectiveness. (SLD)

Makes an argument that teachers will unintentionally impart their values to students and that it is better for teachers to be open and honest and to serve as a model of values clarification. Examines reasons for discussing such issues as dissection, anthropocentricity, evolution, and scientist's gender. (LZ)

People will learn better if they like what they are learning. Computers offer an extensive library of cases, examples, and stories that are easy to access, fun to work through, and tell students what they want to know. One example is the ASK system, a 15-module, self-study, multimedia program that is fun for trainees to use, which should enhance…

The use of a portfolio as a source of information about a student's attitudes, level of development, and growth over time can be a collaborative effort between the child and teacher and can increase parents' awareness of their child's abilities and needs. Selecting materials for the portfolio and different ways to use the portfolio are discussed.…

Discusses techniques for teaching descriptive adjectives in second-language classrooms that rely on humor to help relieve the stress of learning situations. Specific examples of Spanish adjectives and humorous phrases are provided. (contains two references) (MDM)

Discusses the use of the Montessori method in Head Start programs, focusing on educational environment, teacher training, parent involvement, and funding. Outlines the phased implementation of a Montessori program and provides a list of Montessori publications and organizations. (MDM)

Describes the goals of bibliotherapy, treating emotional problems through the reading of books. Discusses applications of bibliotherapy with children, and provides activities to follow up readings. Provides annotations of several children's books recommended for bibliotherapy on a variety of topics, including attitudes and values, peers and…

Reports on a refresher training program that introduces experienced physics teachers to a reflective lesson-planning model and a more constructivist approach to physics teaching. Three instructional strategies developed by participants in the program and the corresponding suggestions made by their peers are presented and analyzed. (29 references)…