Contends that no single definition of critical thinking is widely accepted. Describes issues related to critical thinking and offers suggestions for demystifying the concept. Presents a framework for a psychology curriculum using performance-based assessment practices. (CFR)

Discusses the historical and contemporary relationships between global competition and education. Compares similarities between educational initiatives following the launch of Sputnik and those of the Goals 2000 program. Provides examples to encourage students to think about the new world order in social studies classrooms. (CFR)

Describes a social studies unit for elementary students that is based on historical fiction and integrates the use of skills in library media, language arts, reading, and critical thinking. The roles of the teacher and of the library media specialist are discussed. (LRW)

Examines Taiwanese moral education, which has traditionally developed moral themes from Confucian ethics found in Chinese literature. Emphasizing altruism and self-discipline, lists moral values that primary and middle school students encounter in "Chinese Readers," the predominantly used texts. Questions how industrialization and…

Discusses the Global Lab Project, developed to reform science education through the implementation of experiential, student-based collaborative inquiry. The use of telecommunications, affordable scientific tools, and innovative curricula to create a global community of student researchers engaged in real-world, hands-on investigation of global…

Introduces a special theme issue on the 50th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. Asserts that the anniversary comes at a time when increasing demands are being made upon the UN to play a leading role in world affairs. Calls for teachers to incorporate the United Nations into courses throughout the curriculum. (CFR)

Asserts that research into the effects of word processing on student writing is dependent on established writing skills, keyboarding techniques, human intervention, and the established criteria for good writing. Concludes that nonnative writers may benefit in significant ways from the attributes of word processing. (CFR)

Analyzes and compares two contemporary curricular responses to the need to redefine what constitutes "the American character:" (1) multicultural education; and (2) global education. Uses four cultural ethics (democracy, equal opportunity, fraternity, and consent) to establish a cultural mindset and to provide a lens through which both…

The development of a computer-assisted interactive videodisc used in an introductory biology curriculum and the student evaluations of the program are discussed. The software is evaluated in terms of cost, measurable objectives, multiple opportunities for mastery, visuals and graded quizzes, and student attitude and achievement. (KR)

Comparison of results of a 1980 survey of schools of education with a 1989-90 survey of 321 departments of elementary education indicates that little progress is being made in infusing multicultural education into teacher training programs. Failing to train teachers in multicultural education will have lasting detrimental effects. (SLD)

Using data from a nationally representative survey of college faculty teaching introductory courses, a study compared the course planning procedures of faculty (n=2,311) in eight disciplines: English composition, history, sociology, psychology, mathematics, fine arts, languages, and business. No key differences were found between full- and…

Presents a study of low educational interest and participation area. Quoting from ethnographic interviews, discusses the influences of family, schools, and community on educational decisions. Describes plans to increase public awareness, and develop new curricula and intervention strategies. (DMM)

In an experimental program, problem-based learning was used as the primary instructional method for a one-month primary-care internal medicine rotation on AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) patient care. Resident, tutor, and faculty perceptions of the problem-based approach were positive. Despite substantial initial planning, little…

Maintains that computers have provided a creative device for image creation and enhancement for visual arts educators. Traces the development of educational technology in art education from the 1940s to the present. Describes a four-part "visualization center" that will be the center for art education programs in the future. (CFR)

Asserts that the government of Papua New Guinea has developed a successful program of improved primary school teacher education since 1990. Outlines the origins and development of teacher education in that nation from missionary-directed centers in 1960 to a government-supported program of nine preservice centers at present. (CFR)