This report on the potential of new interactive technologies for improving learning examines developments in the use of computer-based technologies, analyzes key trends in hardware and software development, evaluates the capability of technology to improve learning in many areas, and explores ways to substantially increase student access to…

This paper reviews the impact on the instructional process of having paraprofessionals and adult volunteers, particularly parents and senior citizens, in the special education classroom. It discusses the duties they perform in the classroom and the reasons for low parental participation. The review of the literature suggests the following…

A study evaluated the effectiveness of a series of print materials and interactive computer-guided study programs designed to lead undergraduate students to apply basic textbook reading and concept mapping strategies to the study of science and social science textbooks. Following field testing with 25 learning skills students, 50 freshman biology…

The Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) of the U.S. Congress was asked to analyze various technological options for distance education, examine current developments, and identify how Federal, State, and local policies could encourage more efficient and effective use of technology in education. This report complements OTAs assessment of use of…

Home study has enjoyed a slow but steady growth in popularity and acceptance. The growth of independent home study may be attributed to both the realities of the present educational environment and the consistently positive results of the home study method. At least one researcher has suggested that the initially slow growth of home study may have…

This field-tested manual is an extension of an earlier work titled "Data-Based Program Modification: A Manual," and is designed for special education resource teachers to implement with children whose mild and moderate learning handicaps have resulted in discrepancies between actual and expected reading skills. The manual's philosophy is that…

Studies in the field of economics education indicate that teachers prefer content and a subject-oriented curriculum, while students favor a more personal relationship with the teacher and recognition as unique individuals. Mastery of subject matter is not as important to economics students. As a result, the following problems may occur in the…

This is the first of two articles about a study of the implementation of a media literacy curriculum project in three inner city school Grade 5's in Montreal. The authors describe what the teachers and students learned about two key Media Literacy concepts: the media construct reality and audiences negotiate the meanings of media texts. The…

The effectiveness of teaching academic courses such as mathematics and science in a foreign language has been investigated by several international studies in the literature. Even though the studies conducted have brought up contradictory results, most of them reveal that learning academic courses through a foreign language medium may pose…

Three classroom teachers and their 23 students with significant developmental disabilities were studied across 8 weeks as a new literacy and communication instructional program, "MEville" to "WEville," was implemented. Before and after the implementation, the students were tested on a variety of literacy measures, their…

Schools today are working harder than ever to help ensure that "all" children "can" learn and achieve high standards. Marti Richardson, a recognized leader in professional and curriculum development, delivers an innovative, classroom-tested program with planning tools to customize it for any school or district's data-based needs. Designed around a…

Over the past 15 years, charter schools and teachers unions have battled in state legislatures, the courts and the media. But with increasing frequency, the two groups are facing each other in the everyday operation of schools. This report summarizes the opinions expressed at a meeting of local state, and national leaders from both the charter…

A study identified adult learning principles critical for effective Web-based instructional design (WBID), barriers to effective WBID, and practices of professionals who design WBID. National experts in adult education and WBID were interviewed, and the resulting product was an online assessment that 10 Web-based instructional designers completed.…

"Teaching in a Diverse Society. Second Edition" is written for students beginning their study in education. As the school population increasingly reflects the diversity of America's population, many prospective teachers, typically from the middle classes, will be unprepared for the diverse classrooms they will inevitably encounter. This…

This issue looks at the different ways in which British providers of postsecondary education can weigh the quality of their provision to inform and shape improvements. The articles aim to provide a feel for current practice in internal evaluation to improve quality and to get providers thinking about some ways in which they can collect and use…