To investigate degree of variation in factor structures produced using different factor analytic techniques, two large data sets were analyzed using four factor analytic approaches (theoretical conventional, theoretical conventional-confirmatory, modified confirmatory, and pure confirmatory). Data sets included third through seventh graders and…

Computational models of motivation and emotion are relevant to the social sciences, partly because motivation and emotion are essentially social in nature: they involve tending and regulating commitments that bind individuals together. Specifications of such a model and consequences to educational theories are discussed in the context of the…

The first interview in this article discusses the expectations and challenges adult learners bring with them to the community college classroom, and what instructors should know in order to teach them effectively. The second interview discusses the student experience, including teacher-student relationships, class size, and teacher effectiveness.…

Individual and focus-group interviews explored barriers and motivations to lifelong learning among residents of a disadvantaged area of Glasgow (Scotland). Some participants were motivated to pursue adult education to improve employment opportunities, but motivations related to social and community networks were also important. The current policy…

A study examining university service delivery in isolated rural southwestern Australia interviewed 25 active and inactive distance students. Issues identified include isolation, lack of peer interaction/support, limited access to academic resources, and the need for motivation. Respondents indicated that methodology, face to face contact, and an…

Discusses the characteristics of a college prep program in which Hispanic high school students are motivated to succeed in school. Explores specific teacher strategies that effectively motivate students. The following themes are discussed: (1) creating a vision of the future; (2) redefining image of self; and (3) building a supportive community.…

Argues for a redefinition of the goal of education as "aptitude development" in which students learn to think, reason, and solve problems. Reviews theories on the nature of intelligence, creativity, and motivation. Emphasizes the role of teachers and school principals in creating a new learning climate. (PAA)

Presents the Two-Level Cooperative Group Learning Model, a small-group instruction technique, developed at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and based on the Jigsaw II approach. Outlines a sample unit, showing how student expert groups teach their home teams. Demonstrates the technique's benefits: greater student motivation and interaction,…

A descriptive model is proposed to describe the path of adult problem solving and thinking that leads to reentry into college, retention, and eventual completion of a college degree. Intrinsic and extrinsic facilitators and inhibitors to degree completion, theories of motivation, and persistence are explored. (SLD)

Discusses criteria that can be used to determine whether it would be effective to integrate computers into classroom instruction. Highlights include improving the quality of instruction; the use of appropriate courseware for difficult subjects, such as algebra and chemistry; drills and practice; improving motivation; and the role and effectiveness…

Discussion of personalized instruction focuses on reading education and presents a systems model for teachers called a Teacher System for Personalized Instruction (TSPI). Topics discussed include diagnosing the needs of the learner; self-paced learning; motivation; achievement; mastery learning; evaluation plan; and cognitive, affective,…

A 40-item Likert scale, Transpersonal Orientation to Learning, was developed to investigate transpersonal (spiritual or mystical) orientation. The scale was validated via administration to 166 graduate students in education to determine their beliefs about the development of spiritual potential in learning environments. Satisfactory reliability…

Reports the results of a survey of high school and college foreign language teachers participating in 24 collaboratives around the country. Information about the effects of the alliances on the teachers' attitudes and instructional effectiveness are reported, and an update about current programs in academic alliances in foreign languages is…

With motivational insight, educational understanding, and independence, a maverick educator transformed an East Los Angeles high school previously on a disaster course. In the process, one of his most gifted and imaginative teachers, Jaime Escalante, became a media celebrity. (Author/MSE)

Describes an effort of a library and a school system in which an educational resource science and mathematics enrichment center was created to combat the underrepresentation of minorities in science and technology-related careers. Explains classes at the center, inservice, teacher education, informal use of the center, and additional programs. (RT)