This investigation focused on instructional practices within fifth- through eighth-grade science classes of selected Seventh-day Adventist schools. Teachers reported regular use of discussion, student projects, and tests or quizzes. Most respondents said they did not feel prepared or had "never heard of" inquiry, the learning cycle, or…

Within a concept of life-long learning, the study here reported is framed within the context of the expanding use of education and training in achieving organisational change. The focus of the research study was on one particular organisational education and training intervention and on how individuals experienced the learning and implementing of…

This article reports the findings of a research project that investigated the nature of the teaching and learning process in music composition. Over the period of one semester, the formal interactions in one-on-one study sessions between an eminent composer-teacher and an experienced graduate student-composer were videotaped. Following the…

Giftedness researchers have long debated whether there is empirical evidence to support a distinction between giftedness and attained level of achievement. In this paper we propose a general theoretical framework that establishes scientific criteria for acceptable evidence of superior reproducible performance, which any theory of exceptional…

This article explores several ways computer-based instruction can be designed to support constructive activities and promote deep-level comprehension during vicarious learning. Vicarious learning, discussed in the first section, refers to knowledge acquisition under conditions in which the learner is not the addressee and does not physically…

In most strategy research, the focus is on ready-made models provided by the teacher or a textbook. However, in this research project the effects are described of an experimental program in primary maths education, concerning the construction and use of models by pupils in guided co-construction. Learning how to construct models is said to enhance…

Discusses problems in creating the information retrieval mechanisms used in constructivist computer-based learning environments to support knowledge discovery: (1) subject can not always be pre-specified and the learner may not know what to seek; (2) retrieval strategies differ considerably from conventional ones, with the search including data,…

Presents an elaboration of the theory on levels in learning with special emphasis on the relationships between the cognitive and the affective aspects of the learning process. Outlines an illustration of this theory based on empirical results and demonstrates how this theory can be integrated with other learning principles such as constructivism.…

Describes a primary classroom in which students are permitted to work independently in a constructivist, predominantly child-driven environment. Includes a short interview with the classroom teacher elaborating on this active learning atmostphere. (HTH)

Examines the concept of learning from both constructivist and sociocultural perspectives and introduces a third perspective based on K. R. Popper's philosophy of science. It is argued that constructivism cannot adequately account for the immaterial objects that Popper located in his World 3--abstract mathematical and scientific objects. (GLR)

Discusses the need to develop theoretical models, both behaviorist and constructivist, for distance learning design and methods of assessment. Topics include metaphors; sources of model development and delivery; organization of learning; and sources for research and evaluation, including comparison group research designs and within group variance…

Explores common schemes used by Spanish 10-12th grade students in concrete and abstract contextual situations to explain the internal structure of metals, the causes of electric conduction of metals, and the nature of this current. Concludes that students' conceptions change progressively as they are exposed to additional relevant information in…

Discusses a recent study of the nature of today's college students that revealed the importance of teaching hope as a means of empowering the transitional generation now attending college. This qualitative study reveals the nature of hope and despair and its effect on the learning process from the perspective of 32 college students. (Contains 19…

In this paper, we explore the possibilities of applying the "mighty, blowing wind resting in ethereal space" metaphor explicated in the ancient Indian philosophical treatise of "Bhagavad Gita" as an analogical representation of the functional characteristics of new pedagogies. Of pertinent attributional focus is the analysis of…

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) poses constructivist ideas in its "Principles and Standards for School Mathematics" (2000). NCTM supports mathematics instruction that takes a developmental perspective; starts and builds on what children know; and leads children to construct relational understanding, problem-solving…