Discusses problems associated with teaching non-recursive binary searching in computer language classes, and describes a teacher-directed dialog based on dictionary use that helps students use their previous searching experiences to conceptualize the binary search process. Algorithmic development is discussed and appropriate classroom discussion…

Behaviorally anchored rating scales, designed as a performance assessment tool, are applied to the assessment of student participation in classroom discussion for grading purposes. Specific instructions are given for introducing the scales in class and involving students in their use. (MSE)

Investigated gender differences among first-year medical students' attitudes toward discussion-oriented behavioral science course, performance on course essay, and locus of control. Found that female students generally evaluated course more favorably than did males, and scored more externally on locus of control measure. Found no sex differences…

Describes how student learning from a series of laboratory practicals was improved using small group methods and a structured learning cycle that encouraged reflection on group performance and investigative techniques. Discussion includes evaluation of learning benefits by means of written records, a questionnaire, observation, and the role of…

Reports on a study that recorded conversations about math in elementary classrooms. Notes a wide range of functions that the students employed in their talk, and that group size and leadership greatly affected the way in which language was used. Observes a process of mirroring that offers an important way by which mathematics "register"…

A discussion-leading guide is offered based on an instructional technique called TVDRP (television, discussion, rehearsal, and practice). It is designed to guide students as they view television or videos and then work through an eight-step thinking process for making decisions and solving social and academic problems. A TVDRP worksheet is…

The process pedagogy proposed here, based on Canadian Plains Indians' Sacred Circle teaching and educational practices at an aboriginal high school, views healing as transition toward meaning, wholeness, connectedness, and balance. The paper examines Whitehead's criticism of western metaphysics, the Sacred Circle as expression of aboriginal…

This article describes how to combine painting and poetry by studying famous paintings and poetry of recognized artists from both media. It covers how to design a project, discussing pictures and poems, and giving children a chance to create their own art. A sidebar lists artists and poets that work well together. Includes extension activities.…

Discusses the use of Chinese-language television commercials from Taiwan in intermediate courses on Chinese as a foreign language. Television commercials have been found to be stimulating aural, visual, and cultural input that can provide intermediate learners with interesting, even provocative, topics to discuss. (11 references) (MDM)

Identifies and evaluates principle psychology resources available on the Internet and Bitnet networks. Sources include discussions of cutting-edge research and notices of seminars, conferences, employment, reviews, abstracts, and bibliographies; categories include electronic journals, electronic newsgroups, and electronic conferences. (Author/AEF)

Discussion of the use of the Internet and World Wide Web for interactive distance education courses focuses on the importance of providing iterative usability evaluation of online courses and strategies to ensure effective online course presentation. Design heuristics are suggested, including feedback, help and documentation, and controls for…

Explored how hand gestures help interlocutors coordinate their dialogue. Analysis of dyadic conversations and monologues revealed that requirements of dialogue uniquely affect interactive gestures. Gestures aided the speaker's efforts to include the addressee in the conversation. Gestures also demonstrated the importance of social processes in…

Finds that student discussion in peer-led groups enabled students to express themselves more fully, permitted them to explore topics of interest, and allowed them to recognize and resolve episodes of conflict better than students in teacher-led groups. Suggests that decentralized participation structures produced richer and more complex…

Describes a strategy for enhancing counselors' effectiveness with elderly women in group settings by using a pregroup reminiscence session. The interviews provided a warm-up to a more extensive group experience, served as a potential screening mechanism, and identified themes that might later be developed. (RJM)

An intervention study with 12- to 13-year-old students which attempts to move students' thinking about matter and the dissolving process toward the school science view by use of activities and group discussion tasks which directly address some of the thinking underlying students' prior ideas is described. Students responses to the strategies…