The influence of the peer group upon the task behavior of pupils was examined using a simulated classroom group task situation. Predicted behaviors were the tendency to perform in a manner consistent with the friendship group's norms and to resist attempts by others to influence his task behavior. (Editor/RK)

Six methodological principles are discussed for the teaching of pronunciation in English as a second language; ten points of approach located between methodology and technique are listed. (CHK)

Shows why self-concept is important in reading instruction, and why reading teachers should use effective classroom techniques to promote self-concept. (RL)

The results of research on the effects of a non-directive, hands-on approach to teaching science are presented. The research seems to show that students can learn and can function responsibly in an unstructured, hands-on classroom. (MDR)

The most important job of the teacher educator is to link results of educational research to classroom application in a given school room with a given group of children and a specific teacher. (JD)

Beginning teachers face serious difficulties in trying to apply the "Situational" approach to the teaching of English as a foreign language. Some of these are discussed. Five steps are proposed for overcoming these difficulties by thoroughly preparing the students. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Reaction of the target language speaker to the second language learner's errors may play an important role in developing awareness of norms of correctness. A model for corrective feedback has been developed. Its use helps isolate ambiguities, highlights features of corrective interaction effective in eliciting correct performance. (CHK)

Fifteen rural elementary school teachers in classrooms with high proportions of limited-English-speaking students completed self-reporting instruments and their supervisors evaluated their effectiveness. Those teachers with the most effective strategies for low-achieving students reported lower toleration of maladaptive behavior and some active…

A systematic program for the training of broad-based social skills is necessary for some visually impaired children. Research on social skills programs has focused on the use of behavioral therapy, verbal and nonverbal social skills intervention, early intervention, and a team approach. (Author/JDD)

Describes some ways that poetry can be used to present information about animals, enhance appreciation for animal habits and roles, and promote empathy for animals. Gives examples of and work sheets for the development of limericks, cinquain, haiku, and free verse. (TW)

Student opportunity to learn may be the critical variable in explaining student engagement and subsequent achievement. Lower-ability students are systematically discriminated against in quality of instruction and curricular content and in use of learning time. Suggestions regarding teacher preparation to offset these patterns are made. (MT)

Discusses ways in which classroom communication can be stimulated by encouraging students to talk about their positive emotions and points out the dangers of encouraging students to voice negative emotions. Describes two classroom activities that encourage positive emotions. (SED)

The results of teacher effectiveness research in general education are summarized, the best practices in special education are hypothesized, and the discrepancies between prevailing and actual practices are discussed. Areas for future research are suggested based on discrepancies that exist between levels of current practice. (Author/CB)

Studies at the Curry School of Education (University of Virginia) have demonstrated that microcomputer-based simulations of classroom interactions increase participants' use of appropriate instructional techniques with computer-generated pupils. Performance feedback from the system resulted in significant decreases in inappropriate management…

Examined the effects of symbolic modeling in changing sharing behavior and knowledge in 48 nursery-kindergarten children. The modeling group compared to controls shared more, increased sharing behavior over time, and acquired more knowledge about sharing. Findings support the efficacy of models in book and slide formats for young children. (NRB)