In this article, the author discusses seven characteristics of classrooms that encourage maximum student participation in the education process: (1) democracy; (2) scientific method; (3) creativity; (4) change; (5) individualization; (6) socialization; and (7) problem solving. Using these concepts to make students part of the instructional…

The growing interest in the field of educational technology in the design of constructivist learning environments has led to a renewed examination of problem-based learning (PBL), an approach to instruction in which all learning results from students' efforts to solve a complex problem. Concurrent advances in technology make it possible to use…

This paper first reviews the development of gifted education in Taiwan over the last two decades and discusses the problems facing gifted education, including conservative definition-identification, the negative impact of entrance examinations, and curricula that are not challenging. The development of a pilot program for highly capable primary…

The ability to conduct field-based research is a particularly valuable tool for special education teachers working in isolated rural areas. To address this need, the University of Kentucky's Developmental and Behavioral Disorders Program focuses on preparing graduate-level special education personnel to work in diverse settings; provide…

This project for large-group, problem-based learning at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine developed 47 case-based videotapes that are used to model clinical conditions and also involved veterinary practitioners to formulate true practice cases into student learning opportunities. Problem-oriented, computer-assisted diagnostic…

This paper begins with a discussion of technology-supported activities to support meaningful learning and planning for a new research agenda. The remainder of the paper is a description of two prototype technology-based assessments developed to help address the dearth of appropriate student learning measures available to inquiry-oriented,…

The National School-to-Work Office in collaboration with the National Association for Gifted Children, the Council for Exceptional Children, the Association for the Gifted, and the Council of State Directors of Programs for the Gifted have identified 11 gifted education/school-to-work (GT/STW) models that are either best practices or unique…

An action research project was designed to enhance the creativity and thinking skills of students in a studio art class at the secondary level. The project was conducted between September and December 2002 at a Catholic high school near an urban center. Data were collected using observations, surveys, and document analysis. The targeted population…

The Partnership for 21st Century Skills is a public-private organization of leaders and educators in business and education that works to close the gap between the knowledge and skills most students learn in school and the knowledge and skills they need in a typical 21st century community and workplace. The Partnership's work includes:…

This paper describes the results of implementing a team-project approach to a methods course for preservice physical science teachers. The course is meant to give future teachers realistic experiences in the pursuit of solutions to problems where no answers are provided by the textbook or the instructor. Each lesson introduces a problem, offers…

Discusses the evolution of a set of research programs (dealing with the removal of liquid contaminants from surfaces) used to introduce graduate students to methods of design, evaluation, and modification within the context of a larger research program. Stresses the simultaneity and interaction of theoretical and experimental studies. (JM)

Suggesting, from the results of an information study, that a dichotomy exists between learning physics and passing physics courses, explores the consequences of the dichotomy for standard lecture format and Personalized System of Instruction courses. Includes discussions of student responses to problem-solving approaches, textbook study, and…

Described is Xavier University of Louisiana Piagetian-based general chemistry program. Laboratory experiments are in the learning cycle format and place emphasis on learning by doing. Aspects of the curriculum described include synopses of content covered, laboratory-preceding lectures, list of laboratory experiments covered, and evaluation of the…

Reviews the history of the ten year involvement of the Economic Development Council (composed of approximately three hundred corporations) with the New York City educational system. Discusses the involvement in two phases: the partnership phase which included a feasibility study and the renewal phase which employed organizational development.…

Combining literacy with career development seems to be a logical activity for adult education practitioners. Program models (e.g., Comprehensive Employment and Training Act, Work Incentive Program, and Career Education) have been developed which demonstrate the feasibility of such practices. Article surveys several of these programs, presents…