The literature on effective instruction for difficult-to-teach students is reviewed. Preinstructional variables include classroom management planning and planning for instructional tasks (student assessments, communication of learning goals, pacing decisions, and time allocations). Instructional delivery variables include engagement time, success…

Research on the peer relationship problems of learning disabled (LD) children is summarized, highlighting methodological shortcomings and drawing implications for social intervention. Noted are tendencies of LD children to be frequently off task, to have more negative interactions with teachers and peers, and to be conversationally less assertive.…

Describes evaluation of Japanese educational system. Contrasts differences in National Ministry of Education functions, learning time, examinations, career rewards with American system. Examines Japanese rural school organization, funding, administrative certification/staffing, instructional certification/staffing, salaries, instruction, and…

A four-stage model, designed to shape learning disabled students' independent study skills and foster generalization of skills is presented: (1) ease students into a homework routine; (2) focus on time management; (3) teach problem-solving techniques; and (4) conclude in independent study with intermittent parent and teacher monitoring. (CB)

Describes a four-year Follow-Through Research Project that investigates the effects of a comprehensive staff development program, based on Madeline Hunter's Instructional Theory into Practice Model, designed to improve instruction on student engaged rates and achievement in reading and mathematics. (Author/HOD)

Describes a teacher's system for rotating chemistry laboratory exercises in an effort to teach the basic laboratory techniques with a minimum of equipment. Outlines the basic techniques and procedures taught during a two-week rotation schedule. Lists advantages of this approach and guidelines for scheduling. (TW)

Describes the history, recommendations, and impact of "A Nation at Risk: The Imperative for Educational Reform," the report of the National Commission on Excellence in Education. Discusses broad recommendations regarding the curriculum; standards and expectations for students; time devoted to learning; the status of the teaching…

Observations of two preschool settings--one Black and one white--suggests that structures of time and space are implicit forms through which adult values are transmitted to children. White teachers structured an environment that maximized individual choice and action; Black teachers structured time and space to reinforce collectivism, authority,…

A study of undergraduate students investigated whether different rehearsal strategies are more effective in facilitating achievement, whether certain rehearsal strategies require learners to spend more time interacting with instructional content, and whether verbal or visual testing requires students to spend more time processing and responding to…

Variables which affect students' academic motivation, and thus, school learning, are discussed. Recent research has built on the model presented by Carroll in 1963. Research on the following concepts is reviewed: active learning time; academic motivation, significant others; sex of student; context of learning; and affective factors. (GDC)

This issue focuses upon planning, organization, and time management. Articles discuss program goals, saving failing programs, vocational agriculture program planning under the Perkins Act, program innovation, reviewing the focus of agribusiness education, the changing focus of vocational agriculture at one high school, time management for summer…

Presents youth employment as the principal casualty of cities' transformation from manufacturing- to service-oriented economies. They have been squeezed out of growth sectors and are increasingly employed in retail industries with few opportunities to work with adults or acquire meaningful skills. School-based interventions are proposed. (SA)

Suggests that superintendents of small/rural schools make a schedule of meetings they are required to attend so parents, staff, trustees, and school board members will understand why they are often absent from their offices. (MH)

Discusses alterable elements of classroom organization, traditional approaches to instructional improvement, and "component building," an alternative approach to education. The component-building approach involves an extensive program of field experimental research on classroom practices that are or could become components of complete…

This synthesis of research focuses on nine factors influencing learning, including student characteristics, instructional factors, and environmental factors. In conclusion, the need for devoting more time to academic learning both in school and out of school and the importance of enlisting families as partners in education are emphasized. (MJL)