Identifies goals of character development for elementary school children. Offers four processes that promote positive social growth and moral maturity: (1) building self-esteem and a sense of community; (2) learning to cooperate and help others; (3) reflecting on moral choices; and (4) participating in decision making. Suggests how teachers have…

References are often made in art education literature about how art can enhance individuals' self-concepts. This document discusses the work of authors, Manuel Barkan, George Herbert Mead, and Sigmund Freud, who support this concept. Barkan's theory concerning how an individual's personality develops and changes by interacting socially is…

Describes an exercise that addresses a number of developmental issues in a family and parenting class. The exercise requires students to write a semiautobiographical personal letter. Reports that students responded favorably to this exercise, suggesting a number of beneficial outcomes. Recommendations for instructors are provided. (KO)

The booklet is part of a grade 10-12 social studies series produced for bilingual education, consisting of six major thematic modules with four to five booklets in each. The interdisciplinary modules are based on major ideas and designed to help students understand some major human problems and make sound, responsive decisions to improve their own…

Growth occurs when the need for change is recognized by the individual through self-analysis, and when measures to effect the change are self-initiated. In this course the student is actively involved at every step in self-evaluation, identifying problem areas in her or his relationships and environment, selecting topics and issues for research,…

Arranged into two parts, the book provides a model for helping students develop a positive self-esteem. Part 1 presents five lessons aimed at improving self-image. Lesson 1 focuses on the relationship between one's self-worth and one's behavior. Lesson 2 deals with appearance and the notion that body characteristics may change one's value as a…

Explores the impact of a personal development project on the attitudes, behavior, and understanding of British high school students. The study circulated questionnaires to students from nine different locations in two districts. Responses clearly demonstrated that Personal Development Planning results in more appropriate choices being made at key…

An elementary-level learning activity packet helps students develop self-awareness. Activities such as poems, crossword puzzles, collages, and writing exercises focus on pride, self-control, self-confidence, individual characteristics, friendship, likes and dislikes, and emotions. Suggestions are provided for using this packet as part of a…

Presents the results of a study that tested students in a research methods and a developmental psychology class on methodological and statistical reasoning at the beginning and the end of the term. Reasoning scores of research methods students improved more than the scores of developmental psychology students. (MJP)

Contends that identity problems among adolescents are exacerbated by misinterpretations of the role education plays in the process of achieving personal autonomy. States these problems arise when means to autonomy become ends in themselves and when status is emphasized over character. Explores three stages of the process from freedom to…