Reviews past research on teacher expectations, student motivation, classroom management, and process-outcome research. Discusses the newer trend toward research on teaching for understanding and use of knowledge and its application for curriculum development, particularly in social studies. Contains detailed tables summarizing the author's…

Emphasizes that educational technology seems ideally suited for reinforcing constructivist theories in learning. Defines constructivism and asserts that it moves away from the traditional objectivist approach to learning. Provides five characteristics of a constructivist lesson. (CFR)

Describes a longitudinal research project to introduce holistic-constructivistic pedagogy into bilingual special education classrooms. The authors report the process of teacher change as teachers shifted from a medical model to a contextual-performance model for viewing abilities and disabilities, the changes in students' attitudes toward reading…

In Reggio Emilia, Italy, teachers have spent decades honing their methods of early childhood education. Reggio schools reflect a theoretical base akin to constructivism. Children, families, and communities are valued partners in learning. Experiential learning is the norm. Collegiality is nurtured among teachers. Reggio Emilia schools are…

Creating opportunities and encouraging student-centered questioning requires a special teacher-student dynamic. Students need to be empowered to ask questions. The article explores what teachers can learn from questions students ask, focusing on learning outcomes for teachers, and using a second-grade lesson on Harriet Tubman as an example. (SM)

Discusses dilemmas teachers may face when shifting their concept of teaching or tutoring from explaining or telling to a constructivist perspective of facilitating the development of students' knowledge structures. Examines teachers' decisions during a 20-minute segment of dialogue between a student and teacher while studying linear functions. (14…

Interprets and contrasts children's mathematical interaction from the points of view of radical constructivism and of Soviet activity theory. Proposes a superseding model based on the interrelations between the basic sequence of actions and perturbation and the interaction of constructs. Supports the model by describing how children used…

Proposes a new model of children's mathematics by composing aspects of the Fraction Project and critiques presented in the same issue. Argues that computer microworlds provide children with dynamic learning environments in which they are the primary actors and teachers with a medium for interact with children's mathematics while trying to maintain…

Advocates the use of social reconstructionist theory to create change that provides diversity among teachers. The article explains the importance of social reconstructionist education; analyzes oppression in teacher education; and discusses how to change the faces of teacher education, link home and school cultures, and offer diversity within…

Proposes that a constructivist approach to learning helps overcome the beliefs that (1) some people cannot learn mathematics; and (2) the truth of mathematical propositions is absolute and predetermined. Describes the Ventures Program in which urban high school students exposed to constructivist learning environments have increased their…

Presents an overview of research on analogies in education conducted over the last 15 years. It includes metaphors in an analysis of the educational power of analogies. The role of analogies is analyzed from a constructivist position. (PR)

Reviews the radical constructivism movement in mathematics education. Benefits identified include learner ownership of mathematical learning; importance of social interaction; and identification of principles for improving mathematics teaching and learning. Weaknesses identified include overzealousness of some radical constructivists; downplaying…

Proposes methods to teach the more difficult concepts of linear algebra. Examines features of the Linear Algebra Curriculum Study Group Core Syllabus, and presents problems from the core syllabus that utilize the mathematical process skills of making conjectures, proving the results, and communicating the results to colleagues. Presents five…

The University of California's Developmental Teacher Education program uses Piagetian developmental theory and research for preparing elementary teachers. The article describes the two-year postgraduate program, which features small student cohorts, multiple diverse student teaching placements, coursework that addresses key topics repeatedly and…

Describes a study in which a World Wide Web learning environment was created using socio-constructivist instructional design principles. The study investigated the impact of cooperation and collaboration among university students, as well as group composition, peer support, printed guides, student interaction, and time factors. (Author/LRW)