Just because a classroom is noisy or the teacher isn't always lecturing doesn't mean the kids aren't learning. Quite the opposite. The idea is to push students to think differently, to apply what they know, and to create new ideas, instead of just receiving information. That's difficult to see, but easy to elicit with a few key questions. This…

This guide is intended to stimulate professional reflection, dialogue and debate about mathematics and how to improve it. It draws together themes, features and characteristics of effective improvement in mathematics and descriptions of good practice. It offers a reference point for staff and teachers who are working together to improve…

Interest development centers allow gifted students in regular classrooms to explore a variety of individually selected topics. Suggestions are offered for planning and implementing the centers. (CL)

Describes development and implementation of Individualized Instruction programs for foreign languages through a grant at the Ohio State University. Program emphasizes four-skill approach including proficiency in basic skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Believes computer assisted instruction program in German adds to high test…

This is a manual for those considering the role of Tutor in an educational programme following Open and Distance Learning (ODL) methodologies. To introduce the concept of self-learning, the manual is designed to be self-instructional: (1) Self paced; (2) Easy to read; (3) Easy to follow the instructions; (4) Illustrated with examples to enhance…

Suggests that many teacher training courses merely provide lip service to methodological developments becuase the teachers fail to actually experience the methodology. Illustrates one way of setting up a self-access center, by describing a specific situation and giving examples of materials used. (EKN)

Suggests that sometimes making assignments "vague" places the burden of decision making and problem solving on students, requires that students invent and pursue their own questions, and demands that they practice independent thinking. (MS)

Discussing the advantages of self-paced and leader-led instruction, the author presents a 23 item questionnaire which measures factors to be considered before selecting the type of instruction. The questionnaire considers areas such as trainee population, course objectives, instructional design, administrative procedures, and developmental…

This article discusses ways that sophistication can be incorporated into the curriculum to address the needs of gifted learners. Educators are urged to use questions, integrated curriculum, problem-based learning, independent and self-directed study projects, and mentor experiences to facilitate the exploration of ideas beyond the scope of the…

This book offers easy-to-follow steps that busy parents can readily implement to decrease homework meltdowns and help kids achieve their academic potential. Written for all parents of kids ages 7 to 16--regardless of whether the problem is a homework power struggle, ADHD, unidentified giftedness, or something else--this book shows parents the…

This article considers ways to keep a gifted student interested while teaching basic skills to others in an inclusive classroom setting. The challenges that an inclusive environment presents to the teacher are described. Strategies recommended to provide gifted students with a differentiated curriculum include curriculum compacting, independent…

This paper presents 50 questions that promote research/practices to facilitate self-directed learning in Japanese language classes. The questions are divided into the five following categories: (1) general questions and general research methodology issues (e.g., Why is it important to nurture self-directed learning?); (2) learners' readiness for…

States that the task of the school is to motivate and enable people to continue their education throughout life. Proposes that this goal be met by arousing students' interest in reading while they are being taught to read. Presents the criteria for a good school library and discusses ways in which student interest may be aroused. (GEA)

A collection of articles by seven teachers from varied backgrounds stresses the importance of teacher motivation. Flexibility, honesty, a good sense of humor, and an openness to new approaches are important motivating techniques. Practical suggestions are offered for stimulating motivation among students. (JN)

This practitioner's monograph concerns instructional practices for developing self-directed learning among middle-school students. The monograph provides a definition of self-directed learning, a review of the developmental needs of middle-grade students, a description of a classroom environment designed to facilitate self-directed learning, and…