Educators, concerned with disturbing trends in school failure, are arguing for more learner-centered models of schooling. Such a reform effort requires set principles that emphasize the active and reflective nature of learning and learners; 14 such principles are reported here. The immediate goal of this report is to provide a framework that can…

The "Focus on Basics" serial concerns adult Learning and literacy. The eight short articles in this theme issue are all devoted to the topic of "learner motivation": (1) "Power, Literacy, and Motivation" (Greg Hart); (2) "The First Three Weeks: A Critical Time for Motivation" (B. Allan Quigley); (3) "Build Motivation by Building Learner…

This report focuses on secondary schools and a variety of youth projects in eight countries--Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Korea, Norway, United Kingdom--so as to provide a better understanding of what motivates youth to learn. The text is based on reports prepared by experts appointed by each participating country, in addition to…

Self-directed learning at work is becoming a major trend in training and organizational development. Referring to theoretical considerations in the domains of motivation and learning in disciplines beyond adult education, the concepts of interest, strategies, control, and evaluation seem appropriate to describe self-directed learning. Constructs…

Discusses the response of children to the new elementary science curricula. Claims that while we have been busy devising experiments that enable children to discover concepts, we may have forgotten about children and why they are interested in learning. (JR)

Poetry can be a basis for developing reading skills, listening skills, facility in oral English, if it is taught creatively, appealing directly to the inner child. (Author/RB)

The purpose of this paper is to consider the function and the use of lists of objectives prepared by someone other than the learner. (Author)

Suggests a return to the humanistic tradition, or open education'' modeled after the British primary school with its four operating principles: decentralized classroom, non-structured classes, abundant learning resources, individualized instruction. (DS)

Paper presented at the TESOL Convention, March 1, 1972, in Washington, D.C. (VM)

The second of three articles on elementary school personnel services, this one discusses possible relationships between pupil personnel workers and other staff members which would improve learning climates, particularly for those who are classroom problems because they cannot learn under existing conditions. (CJ)

Stimulated by current interest in performance contracting and accountability, the authors summarize relevant research on the use of incentives to influence student performance. (VW)

The author explains the use of the case method of applying the principles of economics to current economic policy issues. This approach allows the classroom economics teacher to teach the student how to apply economic principles to real life problems. (Author)

In contingency contracting, the student contracts to do something he wants to do contingent upon the successful completion of what the teacher wants him to do. (Author)

Authors urge teachers to delve into children's background, family life, early experiences to gain knowledge needed for more effective teaching of each individual student. Ways to improve children's behavior and performance are detailed, as are techniques for encouraging self-expression and self-revelation, and stimulating parental interest. (PD)