This collection of abstracts is part of a continuing series providing information on recent doctoral dissertations. The 34 titles deal with a variety of topics, including the following: an evaluation of college-level dictionaries for use in freshman composition; peer feedback during the writing process; the effects of formal, traditional grammar…

Techniques are described for teaching severely physically disabled persons to swim. Approaches begin with a discussion of water adjustment progression and proceed through achieving breath control, mobility, developing movement in a supine position, and developing recovery. The conclusion addresses such final steps toward independence as pool entry…

The article describes commercial as well as improvised and homemade equipment for teaching physically handicapped persons to swim. Descriptions address equipment for entering the pool (such as pool lifts, a transfer board, and a ramp); aids in the instructional process (kick boards, arm floats); and assorted games and materials (such as ropes,…

The booklet discusses training methods and approaches for wheelchair track and field. Detailed information and charts are presented on types of workouts (such as interval, distance, rhythm, speed play, and pace work) and mechanics of track events. A section on relay strategy and coaching approaches concludes the document. (CL)

This research bulletin provides criteria and procedures for determining the readiness of children to enter kindergarten early. The first section of the bulletin reviews the results of a literature search conducted to delineate areas of development from which admissions criteria should be defined. The review of the literature disclosed the…

Articles in this special issue are reviews that focus on issues related to the evaluation of addiction treatment outcomes over longer term followup periods (2 years or more). The primary conclusion that can be drawn is that research evaluations of substance abuse treatment should reflect, to a greater degree, the chronic nature of addiction. (SLD)

This newsletter issue focuses on the issue of recommended instructional and curriculum changes that are part of the current reforms in science education. The issue is composed of four articles. The first article, "Science Education: Schools Pushed To Broaden Access, Overhaul Practice," discusses the call for a science curriculum that…

The six editions of the newsletter provide a forum for the sharing of research findings and instructional strategies by faculty of Western Michigan University. Topics addressed include: active learning; lecture variations; lecture techniques; grading student participation; leading discussions; overcoming silence; discussion challenges; course…

The six issues of this newsletter for academic year 1992/93 typically include one or more lead articles; the columns "Research Watch,""ERIC Tracks," and "Teaching Assistant (TA) Forum"; Case Studies; and Case Study Responses. Major articles and columns included in this volume are: "Cooperative Learning as a…

The use of short cases (or case scenarios) and a case method of instruction can help teachers and other educators in both preservice and inservice contexts learn ways of implementing curriculum and providing effective instruction for diverse students. This "Fastback" from the Phi Delta Kappa Educational Foundation illustrates such use of the case…

The article discusses approaches to the evaluation of severely and profoundly mentally retarded persons by recreational therapists. Considered are inventory assessments, medical profiles, interviews, and direct interactions with a client. The last phase of the evaluation process is summarizing and ordering the needs of the individual based on the…

Preparation for teaching dance to orthopedically handicapped students is discussed in addition to specific suggestions for teaching popular dance, square dance, folk dance, modern dance, and ballet. Dancing is seen as a way to give orthopedically handicapped students physical education success without competition. Recommended music for each type…

Three articles on fostering communicative competence in the English as a second language classroom are presented. In "How to Foster Communicative Competence," Sue Khyat examines the sociocultural aspects of communicating. A contribution from the Language Teaching Branch of the Australian Department of Education entitled "Integrating the Skills of…

The issue presents four articles on emotionally disturbed children. The first, "Philosophy and Practice--Always the Twain Shall Meet," presents an edited transcript of a panel discussion held at a 1977 Iowa study institute entitled "Philosophical Issues and Program Goals in Serving Emotionally Disabled Youth." Aspects covered…

The seven articles of this theme issue deal with the use of computer-based interactive graphical representations. Studying their use will bring answers to users of static graphics in traditional paper-based media and those who plan instruction using graphical representations that allow semantically direct manipulation. (SLD)