Eight papers are presented that illustrate the important impact of social factors in learning and the development of thinking. Some contributions focus on the modalities of teaching and learning and others are concerned with possible new ways of showing how learning is regarded by different social groups. (SLD)

Seven chapters consider what learning is and what counts as learning in the context of formal schooling. How qualitative research assists in this examination is explored. Qualitative research is an indispensable tool in the repertoire of research approaches that will illuminate learning discourse. (SLD)

Articles in this companion volume to the "International Journal of Educational Research" discuss evaluation of computerized mathematics instruction for mentally retarded children; conceptions of science learning and instruction by academics; effects of language arts tasks on motivation and learning; and effects of study strategies on learning.…