This book seeks to illustrate the research on mathematics competencies and disposition in China according to the conceptual development and empirical investigation perspective. Mathematics education in China has a distinguishing feature a focus of attention to mathematical competency. Paradoxically, there has not been an explicit, refined, and…

"Even the Janitor Is White" addresses challenges faced by teacher educators who are committed to diversity education. The chapters in this volume invite readers to reflect on their own practice as teacher educators as well as consider ways in which that practice might be improved. More than forty percent of students in U.S. schools are…

Maintains that the National Geography Standards provide teachers with a geographic perspective that will help them teach improved geography content. Asserts that teachers can make connections between the Geography Standards and their own classrooms. Presents five suggested classroom activities based on the National Geography Standards. (CFR)

Introduces a theme issue focusing on teaching critical thinking through college psychology courses. Defines critical thinking and asserts that "learning to think" has been called the central purpose of education. Refers to the Goals 2000 program and its emphasis on thinking skills. (CFR)

Asserts that, given proper preparation at the elementary and middle school levels, high school students can learn to improvise stylistically appropriate harmony, rhythm, and melody. Provides suggestions for teaching choral improvisation. Maintains that improvisation success must build on what students always know--melody. (CFR)

Asserts that the 1994 National Geography Standards provide a new and valuable resource for teachers who want to improve geography instruction. Presents a sampler of additional geography instructional materials developed during this same period of educational reform. (CFR)

Maintains that Venezuela has many U.S. ties because of its relative proximity and economic significance. Asserts that the Five Themes of Geography can be used to design effective classroom lessons about Venezuela. Presents five activities that include student objectives, necessary materials, and step-by-step instructional procedures. (CFR)

Maintains that nothing requires more meticulous preparation than guiding and supervising lessons in discovery and improvisation. Discusses the discovery learning techniques of the Orff-Schulwerk method of music instruction. Includes a teaching example based on the National Standards for Arts Education. (CFR)

Presents a classroom scenario in which music education and social studies topics are integrated. Maintains that the National Standards for Arts Education encourage interdisciplinary approaches. Presents suggested learning activities incorporating topics from social studies and music education. (CFR)

Asserts that new government policies must be mediated and implemented through teachers. Maintains that research among some teachers reveals a number of creative adaptations to the English National Curriculum. Describes four aspects of this adaption and argues that they are all related to self-determination. (CFR)

Maintains that children's literature provides a rich resource supporting the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) national standards. Asserts that many books can be used in the elementary classroom to develop lessons around the 10 NCSS themes. Recommends two or more children's books for each theme. (CFR)

Maintains that with the publication of the National Geography Standards geography has taken a major stride toward demonstrating to teachers the breadth and significance of the discipline. Focuses on three aspects of geographic reality in the lives of teachers and students. Concludes that geographic knowledge is part of every person's life. (CFR)

Maintains that music technology growth can assist teachers in implementing interdisciplinary approaches involving history, culture, and music. Presents suggested classroom strategies utilizing CD-ROMs and other interactive media technology. Discusses downloading music education resources from the Internet. (CFR)

Contends that teachers as well as students function in a gender-biased environment. Asserts that the history and social studies curriculum regularly is taught in a patriarchal manner and that this denial of the past is harmful to young women and men. Questions whether or not a scholarly backlash against women has begun. (CFR)

Emphasizes the importance of providing some curriculum aspects in which students experience a sense of ownership. Compares the English National Curriculum with a national assessment instrument to determine which instructional methods are preferred. Speculates on potential routes into higher education for secondary students. (CFR)