Describes an eight-day graphing unit for grades four through six using data collected from a local cemetery. Provides the activities of each day and excerpts of discussions taking place during the lessons. Concludes that working with real data helps students construct meaningful graphs. (MDH)

Presents techniques for encouraging peer learning in the college classroom. Discusses icebreaking exercises, ways to encourage total participation, and methods for dealing with grade anxiety. Argues that, with peer learning, students learn to develop their own resources for learning. Urges testing that calls for application of theoretical…

Discusses the curriculum approach recommended by Lucy Sprague Mitchell in the 1930s that emphasized real life experiences and discoveries. Asserts that the underlying principles of the "here and now" curriculum are appropriate for today's educational environment. Describes five instructional strategies using this approach. (CFR)

Reviews the debate about history education and curriculum restructuring in Great Britain. Discusses three aspects of these efforts: (1) public discussion about the emerging national history curriculum; (2) attention to promote experiential learning outside the classroom; and (3) increased awareness of the role of American studies. (CFR)

Describes the teaching-upbringing complex (UVK), a new type of Soviet school that attempts to deal with raising and educating children in an integrated manner. Stresses combining required subjects with students' special interests to encourage student achievement and teacher involvement. Concentrates on the development of self-expression and…

Reports on a study of the classroom environment and student attitudes in 38 secondary Chinese classrooms. Finds that, despite considerable cultural and political differences, the classroom environment in social studies is remarkably similar to that in the United States. Concludes that diverse activities and active student involvement are related…

Describes the Earthmobile Project, a tractor trailer educational exhibit that contains a working model of a Native American archaeology site. Explains how the Project appeals to both student and teachers. Outlines how teachers can develop instructional activities that would replicate the Earthmobile experience. (CFR)

Recommends improving preservice teacher assessment by providing multiple forms of on-campus laboratory experiences (e.g., microteaching, reflective teaching, simulations) that offer job-related tasks. Performance on the tasks could be assessed at multiple points and for various purposes (selecting preservice teachers and student teachers and…

A perspective on teaching and learning in higher education that regards the learner's experience as primary is outlined. Some propositions about learning from experience are made, a model of learning from experience is discussed, and implications for instructional design are examined. Major areas for curriculum development are identified.…

The reduction of anxiety associated with teaching science and an increased confidence in science ability in elementary teachers is shown through the use of a properly designed introductory course that integrates teaching methods, the nature of science, and process skills. The course design, evaluation, methods, and discussion/results are included.…

Describes an experiential learning activity in which a Connecticut fifth grade class designated a new holiday, Friendship Day, through an essay-writing contest. The class pursued legalizing the holiday through the state legislative process, and Friendship Day is now celebrated on the fourth Sunday in April in Connecticut. Shows how the class…

The article describes the modification and implementation in Saint Bernard Parish (Louisiana) of the Adult Performance Level Curriculum with mildly handicapped secondary students. Major skill areas are coordinated with areas of functional competency, with the goal of achieving competency in 42 specific areas of adult life. Field experiences…

Describes a two-day field experience in which college-level business and economics students visited businesses and municipal government organizations. Contends that preparatory experiences were essential to the program's success. Concludes that students were more optimistic about the economy and more enthusiastic about their future work in…

Describes a primary-level field geography program in which students explore the geography and archaeology of their rural community. Presents a set of mapping activities to help students understand cardinal directions and use locational skills. Concludes that the program has successfully involved students, parents, and community members in…

Argues that active learning should be the goal of every teacher. Contends that this can be achieved through the use of cooperative learning, attention to learning styles, and hands-on strategies. Includes a lesson plan utilizing audiovisual aids. (CFR)