Reports the results of two studies which further examine the relations of motivational-variables contribution to reading achievement and text comprehension. Results revealed that reading amount significantly predicted text comprehension (with other variables controlled) in both studies (Study 1 included third and fifth graders; Study 2 included…

Reports a study of motivation among 36 University of Hong Kong first-year students during their first exposure to problem-based learning, with data drawn from student journals, pre- and post-semester measures of learning-style preference, and course evaluations. Results indicate significant changes in learning-style preference, from…

Discusses the importance of introducing preservice teachers to the use of technology and how to integrate it into their classrooms. Describes one teacher's development of multimedia programs and emphasizes availability of and access to computers in schools, careful planning, the use of appropriate technology, and student motivation. (LRW)

The purpose of this longitudinal study is to examine students' needs in a private school as a basis for establishing curriculum goals and instructional objectives for a new curriculum. (Author/VWL)

Explores the possibilities for developing autonomous learners by using participation in curriculum development, collaborative learning, and self- and peer assessment. A university research-methodology curriculum unit with this aim is described. Student outcomes included increased motivation, excitement, confidence, in-depth learning, appreciation…

Reports a case study in a Singapore school where a group of at-risk secondary students were given a series of linked computer-based projects. Describes the conceptual framework based on constructivism and situated learning and discusses benefits in academic performance, student motivation, language development, cooperation and stress management,…

Reports the result of a study on faculty perceptions of reasons for student attrition. Describes the implementation of recommended strategies for reducing attrition at a community college, including seeking to know the students, tackling non-academic factors (such as scheduling), addressing academic and affective barriers, identifying student…

Examined classroom processes in urban elementary schools identified as effective/efficient (E/E) and ineffective/inefficient (I/I), noting differences regarding students' behavior, motivation, and perception of classroom learning environment. Data from observations and student surveys indicated several classroom process differences between E/E and…

Examined the relationship between prior knowledge, learning-strategy use, interest, learning goals, and conceptual understanding among fifth-grade science students. Results of student knowledge tests and a self-report measure of learning goals, interest, and strategy use indicated that the study variables were positively related to each other and…

A study examined differences between teacher ratings of 87 Anglo-American and 63 Hispanic fifth-grade students based on the students' ethnic status and acculturation level. Anglo-American students were rated higher on characteristics relating to learning, motivation, creativity, and leadership. Highly acculturated Hispanic students received higher…

Examined academic and social defensive pessimism and optimism strategies and adolescents' future orientation in the domains of education and military service. Found that academic strategies were significantly linked to prospective education components and social strategies to military service components. Found that investment in prospective…

Outlines instructional principles upon which classroom practices in a fourth grade and in a kindergarten class are based that contribute to students' success, love of literacy, and emerging biliteracy. Discusses creating a socioculturally supportive learning environment that (1) affirms the cultural and linguistic resources of all students; (2)…

A study of six women doctoral students in the United Kingdom from developing countries shows many characteristics in common despite their cultural diversity. Intrinsic motivation to succeed in a career was accompanied by the desire to have and maintain a family. Implications for the study of gender issues are discussed. (SLD)

Studied relationships between adolescents' perceptions of their middle school (school goal structures, autonomy provisions, positive teacher regard) and changes in academic motivation, achievement, and psychological adjustment. Found perceptions to be important predictors; for example, perception of positive teacher regard and an emphasis on…

Argues that a high priority should be placed on creative expression in early childhood settings, including the visual arts, music, dance, poetry, and drama. Stresses that creative potential must be nurtured and carefully cultivated, and argues that there can be no true artistic expression without freedom, and there can be no true freedom without…