This self-report study investigated 274 pre-service teachers' attitudes toward students with learning and behavioural difficulties (LBD) and the factors that predict their attitudes. Using four scenarios describing students with LBD, we investigated the degree to which pre-service teachers' open-minded thinking dispositions, readiness to learn…

The author explains that readiness measures should collect data about pupil's entering behavior for instructional objectives or programs, that the criterion of relevance in entering behavior must be met, and that problems arise when there is no consensus on prerequisite entering behavior. (Author/CL)

Examines two myths about writing: good writing cannot be taught, and writing develops naturally. For each myth, alternative ways to achieve goals with students who find writing difficult are explored. Proposed instructional procedures focus on development of knowledge, skill, will, and self-regulation in writing. (Author/JDM)

The Miller Assessment for Preschoolers (MAP) and a number/counting test were given to 50 4- and 5-year-olds. Low performance on counting was related to significantly slower average response time, overshoot movement time, and reaction time, indicating perceptual-motor difficulty. Low MAP scores indicated difficulty processing visual spatial…

In response to the problems of nonpromotion, a school district near Rochester, New York introduced the transition class (TC) as a placement alternative after kindergarten for students not ready for the grade one program. Follow-up evaluation investigated the effects of four treatment conditions over a six-year period. (Author)

Discusses a study done using the Productivity Environmental Survey that reviews the learning style preferences of adults in a university setting. Twenty learning styles with three predictors were used. It was found that three styles (structure, evening, and afternoon preferences) were most effective. (Contains 20 references.) (MZ)

Claims that students' self-discipline is the key factor in learning and that the structure of the school is the key factor in developing self-discipline in students. Suggests ways schools can develop awareness of the effects of their structures on student behavior and learning and make appropriate improvements. (PGD)

In this article Teresa Whitehurst and Amy Howells describe how pupils and staff from mainstream and special settings worked together on a project, resulting in a musical performance. They demonstrate at the outset that, even after several decades of integration and then inclusion, there remains an attitudinal hurdle to overcome. Mainstream pupils…

Presented are two case reports about an instructional experiment. "Peer Perspectives" uses nonspecialized faculty to experience some aspects of an introductory course for providing perspective, insight, and feedback to those who wish to make their courses more appropriate to nonmajors. (YP)

School readiness problems of disadvantaged children include: the failure of preschool and parent training programs; restricted learning environments and motivational problems; mothers with low intelligence and verbal skills; and a need for comprehensive family rehabilitation. The school psychologist's role in early screening and in fostering…