This study examined subjective age (how old one feels) and associated variables in 148 emerging adults, ages 20-30 years. Seventy-six participants had a motor disability (cerebral palsy, spina bifida) and 72 had no motor disability. Participants completed questionnaires and were interviewed. There was no significant difference in subjective age…

This work is based on the assumption that if the classroom is a space in which manifestations of critical autonomous thinking appear systematically, then it promotes that same kind of thinking by the students, in other contexts. But what count as manifestations of critical autonomous thinking, and how can we observe them? As Robert Young's…

Within the framework of current reflection of a philosophical nature on citizenship, citizenship education and the training of those who will take on this type of teaching, the authors hope to achieve a double objective in this article that can be summarized as: (1) To contribute to the development of a conception of citizenship founded on the…

How smartness is defined within schools contributes to low academic achievement by poor and racial/ethnic minority students. Using Holland et al.'s (1998) [Holland, D., Lachicotte, W., Skinner, D., & Cain, C. (Eds.) (1998). "Identity and agency in cultural worlds." Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.] concept of "figured worlds," this paper…

The integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) in course offerings in institutions of higher learning (IHLs) is the catalyst towards empowering learners to become autonomous lifelong learners. In an effort to produce quality and independent learners, Learning Management Systems (LMS) are seen as a means to assist educators in…

This study investigated the extent to which learner autonomy could be fostered in a blended learning situation involving the integration of a course management system into a traditional face-to-face English class. The purpose was to identify whether there was evidence that such an intervention brought about changes in the students' perception and…

Some argue that the goal of education is to influence out-of-school learning activity, yet little research exists on how teachers can help students develop an interest in a topic and continue to pursue that interest outside of school. The current study tested classroom context variables from self-determination theory (teachers' autonomy support)…

Family theorists have considered the idea of boundary in terms of the concepts of disengagement and enmeshment. Disengaged families are those having rigid, well-delineated boundaries that are often impermeable. Alternately, enmeshed families have diffuse ego boundaries, acting as if all are part of each other, and are likely to produce an…

Exploring the facilitator's role in a management self-development program, the paper presents the view that "self"-direction takes place in a context of "other"-directedness. It argues that development of the learner's self-direction demands that the facilitator be prepared to interact openly, to learn, and to change. (Author/CH)

The authors highlight major new propositions that were inferred from a study of autodidactic learning experiences. They suggest corresponding implications for practice in a formal educational setting. Topics include motivation, goals, specialization, monitoring of the learning process, and reflection. (CH)

The nature of autonomy and the relevance of education to its development is explored through a discussion of three theories--progressive, liberal-rational, and social class--of the curriculum. Reasons are advanced for preference for a "collaborative" over a "negotiated" curriculum. Defends the liberal-rational theory.…

Notes that, in long term care, conflicts over autonomy can begin at level of conceptualization, especially when basic distinctions and polarities are not adequately recognized. Indicates conceptual complexity by identifying and examining six polarities. Presents case studies to illustrate how each polarity can give rise to ethical problems in long…

Considers informed consent standard inadequate for insuring autonomy in long term care. Argues for complex standard of "negotiated consent." Illuminates philosophical argument by qualitative data from interviews with physicians, nurses, and social workers in nursing homes, which demonstrated continuum of interventions ranging from…

Analyzes the relationship between factory daughters and their families in Java, Indonesia, to examine the relationship between gender stratification and industrialization. Finds industrialization maintains, and may even enhance, female status within the family. Comparing this Southeast Asian with an East Asian experience, demonstrates the…

The author states that the movement to increase discipline and detail in post-Freirean adult education may ultimately reduce it to reproducing the status quo. He argues that empowerment and power are opposing concepts and that adult educators must oppose the systemizing of adult education if they hope to effect social change. (CH)