This article describes several cooperative learning activities which can be included in teacher education courses. Jigsaw learning, study teams, informal resource groups, and group projects are discussed. Student perceptions of cooperative learning, based on a survey of 52 undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in education courses, are also…

Presents a small informal survey assessing the awareness of input styles of English-as-a-Foreign-Language teacher trainers. The survey proved to have a beneficial effect on both questioner and questioned, and enhanced trainers' self-awareness and trainer-to-trainer attitude changes. (Author/CB)

Evaluated the effects of cooperative learning on students' (n=36) verbal interaction patterns and achievement in a conceptual change instructional model in secondary science. It was found that students using cooperative-learning strategies showed greater achievement gains and made greater use of specific verbal patterns believed to be related to…

Vietnamese high school students completed a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and completed daily diet reports for seven weeks. Data from the FFQ were compared to the food reports. The results indicated a few simple FFQ items, particularly for indicator foods such as rice, were reliable for dietary assessment for that population. (SM)

A sampling of teachers (n=348) and principals (n=31) responded to a questionnaire designed to assess their beliefs about the effects of, experiences with, and impediments to calculator usage in elementary school mathematics. Results indicated that teachers expressed concern regarding negative effects of extensive calculator usage on mathematical…

A consortia of Rhode Island academic libraries used several research methods--checklists, vendor matrix, vendor demonstrations, dial-up access, on-site visits, and telephone conversations with representatives--to evaluate integrated library systems for purchase. With the help of private funding, INNOPAC was purchased and implemented. (EA)

The effectiveness of two spelling software programs on the weekly spelling performance of underachieving elementary students was studied. Students learned the programs, and data were collected over the school year. Data analyses indicated both programs generated higher accuracy in spelling than traditional procedures. Students sustained the…

Clarifies the benefits of having students write about their understanding and dispositions toward mathematics. Discusses ways to manage journal writing and incorporate it into existing classes. Suggests 19 assignments students can respond to in their journals. (MDH)

Discusses enduser searching of online databases and describes a study conducted at Ohio State University that compared two methods of assessing the success of enduser searches. Reasons for dissatisfaction are discussed, problems with online searches are examined, possible solutions are described, and further research is suggested. (20 references)…

Describes a process for collection of data for training evaluation to ensure that the appropriate knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics are trained and that skill levels obtained meet minimum job requirements. Examples of a job analysis task rating form, task importance scale, ability scale, and abilities definitions are…

Describes microcomputer-based courseware designed for the simulation of the microbiological analysis of drinking water, including digitalized color images. The use of HyperCard is described and evaluation procedures are explained, including evaluation of the learning and of the class. The evaluation questionnaires are appended. (20 references)…

Examines the librarian's role in managing online access and training endusers based on a survey of librarians. Highlights include the impact on special libraries; goals of enduser training; the corporate context; instructional and training aids; enduser instruction in the virtual library; and competencies required for information literacy. (10…

Presented are two ideas to improve instruction. The first celebrates the Christmas birthday of Isaac Newton with an essay assignment related to Newton and a party. The second suggests a more appropriate moment to introduce the technique of completing the square to promote greater flexibility in factoring problems. (MDH)

Describes an institute designed to train librarians to use the Buffalo Free-Net, an open-access community computer system. The objectives were to help librarians become comfortable with networked information and to teach them how to exploit the potential of the network to serve the information needs of their communities. (Author/LRW)

Describes the DISCOVER assessment process, a method designed to identify gifted learners by documenting students' problem-solving abilities in several of Gardner's multiple intelligences, including spatial, mathematical, linguistic, intrapersonal, bodily kinesthetic, and interpersonal. Examples of problems presented to students in grades six…