Investigates teachers' perceptions in two studies regarding extent to which various teaching methods are differentially appropriate for various types of students. Results of both studies indicate teachers do differentiate among appropriateness of various methods for different students, and their decisions tend to agree with existing research on…

Identifies concepts and findings in cognitive psychology and cooperative learning relevant to teaching and learning higher cognitive skills. Derives implications from research to use as criteria for evaluating history and social science instruction programs. Critiques three models for teaching intellectual skills in the social studies curriculum.…

This paper draws heavily on quantitative synthesis of empirical research on teaching, and for comparison, related influences on learning, such as the student's motivation, home environment, and exposure to television. The first section explains the techniques of explicit search and selection of evidence and the statistical evaluation and summary…

Today's young people must cope with a shrinking planet earth; deal with complex human relationships and the dynamics of explosive social and technological change; and function in a world which has few precedents especially in the area of social change. This thesis delineates a practical methodology for teaching high school anthropology based on…

Describes a study that involved a search for a model for the teaching of musical composition to students with some prior experience. Recounts in detail the way students approached the task of composing music, and the compositions they produced. Offers several recommendations for reforming composition instruction. (MJP)

The paper affirms the necessity to incorporate new technology and new assessment techniques into any restructuring of the way the Florida state system of public schools now functions at the local school level. If the intent of public education is to prepare students to become thinking, contributing members of the 21st century, teachers not only…

As a result of the pressures of educational reform and high-stakes assessment, some schools run the risk of foregoing active, student-centered learning activities for building test-taking skills and the memorization of discrete facts (Gredler, 1999; Jackson & Davis, 2000). Coupled with the additional pressure to fulfill the expectations of…

This paper proposed to apply the perspective of constructivism to the classroom setting. Secondary science teachers and university personnel jointly developed and experimented with a variety of constructivist teaching strategies. Data were collected in the form of teacher anecdotes, audio and videotapes of lessons and student interviews, teacher…

This study is the final report of an investigation into the effectiveness of Student Teams Achievement Divisions (STAD), a system of cooperative learning at the postsecondary level. The study specifically examined the relationships between a student's evaluation of his/her own effectiveness as a STAD team member, and other variables in a…

Reviews theoretical developments in science education and integrates them into a humanistic constructivist model of science learning. Applies this model to the new English national science curriculum. Explains the changing focus in science curriculum and pedagogy. Discusses theories of science learning in relation to the Education Reform Act…

Maintains that cooperative learning produces higher achievement, more positive relationships among students, and healthier psychological adjustment than do competitive or individualistic experiences. Describes a cooperative learning core module complete with course content and assessment strategies. Discusses advantages, disadvantages, and student…

Reports on a research development model designed to improve the teaching and learning of mathematics in the Dominican Republic. The model drew heavily upon the Missouri Mathematics Project. Discusses innovations in curriculum development, classroom instruction, and inservice teacher training. Includes statistical tables on student achievement and…

This paper identifies five indicators of exemplary efforts and programs that characterize an emerging model for science teacher education reform. These include: (1) defining basic science as content preparation; (2) assessing students beyond content mastery; (3) providing multiple school experiences; (4) working in a semester-long teacher center;…

This paper discusses five specific features of an emerging teacher education model. They include: (1) developing a rationale for teaching science; (2) providing sufficient time for personal change; (3) developing self-analysis skills concerning teaching and learning behaviors; (4) analyzing classroom climate; and (5) modeling teaching behaviors…

A regional workshop was held in which educational researchers and practitioners shared their innovations, successes, concerns, and progress in using research and development to promote excellence in their state and local education agencies. This document reports its proceedings. "School Improvement: What the Research Says," by David P.…