Describes the advantages in having children develop their own art rather than downloading images or clip art from computers or the Internet. Topics include developing art skills; learning through creating; self-expression; self-confidence gains; observation skills; and creativity and problem solving. (LRW)

Examined the relationship between primary teachers' implementation of developmentally appropriate and traditional teaching methods and the mathematics achievement of general and special education students. Found that mathematics achievement was associated with a reported measure of instruction that emphasized mathematical processing and strategy…

Compares the service learning experience of college students to the traditional social science technique of participant observation. Suggests that service learning allows students to test theories through personal observation in a service setting and experience the logic and practice of social research. Uses examples from the Xavier University…

Observing administrators should watch and listen to both teachers and students, noting use of the target language by both groups, prevalence of student-centered activities, instructional strategies that encourage language learning and accommodate varied learning styles, well-integrated lesson plans, and presence of a comfortable classroom climate.…

Examines correspondence between teacher ratings and direct observations of 217 kindergartners. Observations of classroom behavior showed that Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)-combined type children exhibited comparable inattention compared to ADHD-predominantly inattention type children. The former rated higher on…

This naturalistic study examined the role of nonverbal communication in the academic library. The decision to approach or not approach a reference librarian was studied through the use of Mehrabian's immediacy metaphor, and it was hypothesized that the nonverbal behavior of the librarian is related to the user's decision. Contains 53 references.…

Offers observational tools that physical education teachers can use to gather objective data on their teaching for the purpose of reflection. The tools are based on complex research tools associated with effective teaching. The three types of observational tools focus on student behaviors, teacher behaviors, and teacher-student interactions. (SM)

Introduces the peanut observation activity to teach about the pros and cons of dissection. As an inquiry-based approach, dissection is one way to teach process skills. Lists the progression of the activity as observation, questioning and finding the answer, challenge, discussion, and further examination. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Researchers examined Hong Kong teachers' and principals' perceptions of using classroom observation for faculty development and evaluation. Surveys indicated that the current practice was mainly for evaluation. Elementary teachers were least likely to welcome observers. All respondents wished for a model of peer observation and coaching. More…

An observational study of families watching television was conducted in six households, using a video camera. Results show that family members were absent for substantial proportions of the time the television set was in operation, and when present, for most of the time did not pay full attention. Thirteen tables depict information. (AEF)

Argues that the theory and practice of educational measurement would benefit from expanding the dialog among measurement professionals to include voices from different research traditions and from the communities researchers study and serve. The critical dialectic between naturalist and interpretive conceptions of social science is explored. (SLD)

Used behavioral genetic methods and environmental assessment techniques to assess maladaptive behavior in 6- to 11-year-old twin pairs. Found that genetic variation accounts for majority of variance in parent-reported child maladaptive behavior; in contrast, observational coding and global impressions of parent-twin interactive behavior suggest…

Conducted a textual analysis of Darwin's diary version of his observations of his oldest child and the published paper based on these observations to compare the degree to which Darwin identified himself in the two as detached observer or as embodied participant. Found that the embodied, relational vision evident in the diary version was absent…

Developed a strategy to assess two facets of cooperating teachers' (CTs') supervisory responsibilities: what they observed during lessons when preparing comments for student teachers and what they subsequently mentioned to students. Physical education CTs watched videotaped lessons, wrote critiques, and completed interviews. The strategy was a…

Identifies five dimensions of professional instructional competencies based on qualitative empirical studies (participant observation, interviews, and data analysis). Discusses the concept of a "professional self" in order to explain professional development. Emphasizes self-reflection and observation as the means for professional educators to…