The articles in this special issue take a "uses and gratifications" approach that emphasizes that people make choices about the media they choose and that they differ in their interpretations of media content. The articles integrate this approach with developmental perspectives on adolescence. (SLD)

Using Piagetian tasks designed to assess specific mental structures, researchers investigate the relationship between logical thinking structures and the ability of students to construct and interpret line graphs. Results revealed that a significant correlation exists between the aforementioned variables. Suggests and cautions that only at certain…

Reports on the beginnings of visual representation in early childhood by using longitudinal studies in both London, England and Singapore. Finds evidence to support the theory that underlying children's use and organization of visual media are certain robust forms of behavior, or deep structures. (CFR)

Contends that emergent developmental sequences are energized in a continuous interaction with environmental influences. Asserts that a developmentally and individually appropriate curriculum is sequential and matched to the naturally emerging developmental sequences of the child. Proposes four research emphases for the 1990s. (CFR)

Examines development of the concept of commitment in relation to adolescents' choice of a career and romantic partner. Subjects were 163 male and female ninth graders, twelfth graders, and college juniors from public and private schools. Findings support the proposition that the concept of commitment is affected by grade, gender, and type of…

Because young children have difficulty comprehending abstract ideas and generalizing information presented in sexual abuse prevention programs, and because of their dependence on adults, the effectiveness of sexual abuse prevention programs for young children is questionable. (BB)

Reviews literature supporting the proposition that language is an essential component of early artistic development. Suggests that appropriate forms of dialogue between adults and children in art-making contexts may provide a foundation for understanding and facilitating early artistic activity. (Author/BB)

Examined is the predictive value of the cognitive variables of developmental level, mental capacity, cognitive style, short-term storage space, and numerical inductive reasoning for student achievement in college science. Included is a strategy for the development of materials which would allow students to develop problem-solving skills. (KR)

This article presents the case study of a child who was classified as communication disabled but seemed to have suffered from language loss or arrested development of the primary language (Spanish) before attaining full competence in English. The child experienced a temporary delay of development in both languages but eventually mastered English.…

Describes student teachers' developmental stages. After reviewing pertinent literature, the paper examines a recent study that qualitatively and quantitatively outlined stages of development applicable to contemporary student teaching contexts. The study found that each of five student teachers passed through four developmental stages…

Psychometric information was obtained on the Longeot test, which measures aspects of formal thinking, from a sample of 884 high school science students in India taking a Hindi version of the test. The test version appears valid for these students and may be used to classify subjects into Piagetian developmental levels. (SLD)

Presents samples of educational material adapted for laboratory use on the subject of the pH scale, dilution skills, and their relevance to biology. The experiments were developed for use in both ninth-grade heterogeneous and tracked classes in biology. Students were assessed for academic achievement in relation to their operational reasoning…

Contends that criticism of progressive pedagogical methods may be creating an ideologically neutral orthodoxy of primary school practice in Great Britain. Expresses caution about this development by defending principles underlying progressive education. Argues for the development of child-centered teaching methods within the National Curriculum.…

Contends that music education for adult learners is an important educational trend. Discusses the special needs and concerns of adult learners. Recommends approaches to setting up adult music learning centers. (CFR)

A theory of childhood development posits an unseen pattern that contains the laws and principles determining the child's nature. An environment that provides attunement to this pattern allows the child profound spiritual awareness, within the limits of the developmental moment. Four stages of development are presented with their attributes,…