The effects of students' conceptual levels and teachers' instruction patterns on students' motivation to learn academic course content were investigated. An examination of 63 students indicated that for low-conceptual-level students, direct teaching methods maximized motivation to learn course content. For high-conceptual-level students, nondirect…

Accounting students (n=127) were randomly assigned one of two exams: one with multiple-choice items in an order corresponding to the sequence of class coverage of the topics, the other in random order. No differences appeared in test scores or time of completion. (SK)

The conflict-resolution steps outlined in Arnold Burron's "Heed Community Values" article suggests an oversimplified picture of educational change. Consensus in diverse communities is elusive. Parents' rights are problematic. Conflict will continue as long as communities expect schools to resolve society's problems. Sharing…

This study explored the kinds of interpretive frameworks that university professors used in constructing and implementing pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) in order to understand better the generic nature of PCK. Phenomenological interviews with professors who were recognized as experienced teachers indicated that they constructed and used…

Describes using nonfiction (primarily newspaper and magazine articles) with a seventh-grade reading improvement class to elicit political response in adolescent readers and to lead students to respond to writing with moral or emotional complexity. (SR)

Responses from 64 of 80 extension agents specializing in community resources and economic development identified the "Journal of the Community Development Society" as the primary source of ideas and information. Frequently cited program topics were entrepreneurship, fiscal policy, budgeting, strategic planning, and leadership development. Among…

Considers the profit of caring for writing students and helping them believe in the value of the materials they produce. Provides experiential evidence of the influence of one teacher's attempt to care ethically for his students. (HB)

Provides tables summarizing additional qualification courses in environmental science offered through the faculties of education in Ontario. Information in the tables include: (1) objectives, (2) topics covered, (3) special features, (4) when the courses are offered, (5) location, (6) costs, (7) instructors, (8) additional comments, and (9)…

Discusses the assignment of a research critique assignment to sociology students at Rhode Island College. Explains that students in methodology courses develop research skills by critiquing research articles and writing research proposals. Identifies the structure of the course and its connection with the other parts of the curriculum. Describes…

Presents a framework used at Western State College to teach an interdisciplinary general education course. The framework helps students organize a large volume of material about Contemporary World Cultures according to a taxonomy of human experience, including artistic/literary expression; thought and belief; relationships/associations with…

Imminent demographic changes require understanding of issues surrounding caring for family members while employed. Gerontology course offerings should focus on the caregiver role, and future corporate executives should be provided with basic gerontological education so that they will be able to understand and support their employees who are…

Examines the need to incorporate ethnic issues into psychology of women courses. Suggests topics for inclusion, such as family relationships among ethnic groups and cultural versus gender identity. Identifies issues for class discussion, including the experiences of a variety of ethnic women and the methodological concerns that differentially…

When school districts are awash in crisis, the superintendents are responsible for calming troubled waters. Superintendents should anticipate troublesome issues and communicate with all parties involved. If early efforts prove ineffective, superintendents must keep overall educational goals in mind, communicate frequently with board and press,…

Discusses teaching social studies using public issues to develop student understanding. Describes identification of issues, justification and clarification of positions, and the discussion process. Suggests that selection of issues should be based on the importance of the issues to society and their significance for teachers and students. (DK)

To ensure that teachers develop knowledge and skills necessary to promote development of a global perspective in students, a global perspective should be incorporated throughout the teacher education curriculum. Suggestions are given for developing an enhanced global perspective through general studies, foundations of education, curriculum and…