Describes backgrounds, educational philosophies, and the relationship between the 2 for 18 exemplary African-American teachers in 2 ethnographic studies emphasizing effects of differences in background. Teachers' knowledge of community norms and the position of the community within the larger society explains much of their success with students.…

Suggests the use of children's literature to teach about prejudice and discrimination. Provides brief descriptions of stories and books on prejudice, individual differences, and the era when racially separate was considered equal. Recommends adding geography, journal writing, group journals, and class discussions to the readings to teach social…

Analyzed differences in school behavior and achievement among students (n=530) in grades six through nine from intact, reconstituted, and single-parent families. Students from intact, two-parent families had fewer absences and tardies, higher grade point averages, and fewer negative and more positive teacher behavioral ratings than did those from…

A distinguishing feature of teaching and learning in traditional aboriginal cultures such as that of Native Americans is respect for the learner's unique way of knowing. Such practices complement the feminist perspective of education and are appropriate for faculty mentors of women college students. (MSE)

Presents a list of techniques and principles for encouraging respect for individual differences in the nursery school. Guidelines for both speech and action are provided. (BB)

Two studies involving 801 middle school students examined the effects of changing educational environments on children's academic self-concepts and motivation. Overall, the findings suggest that changing emphases in the educational environment have complicated academic outcomes that depend on the individual resources that children bring to the…

Studied the relative weight of personal, social, and cultural variables that explain gender differences in mathematics learning in different sectors of Israeli society. Results from 106 Jewish and 105 Arab high school students show the higher perceived achievement and mathematics self-confidence of the Arab girls. Explores reasons for the…

A youngster failing to thrive in one environment needs an alternative learning situation. Research shows that small, personalized schools offering authentic, engaging curricula are essential for reaching unsuccessful learners. The test-score craze can be contained by publicizing other numbers regarding consequences: absence rates, dropouts,…

This experimental study explored whether, and to what extent, differences in gender and experience with word processing affect how students perceive their classroom environment in high school writing classes. Treatment of experimental and control groups is described, and the classroom environment questionnaire for the experimental…

During their elementary school years, many students develop a dislike for school. Their alienation is due partly to the school environment and discouraging educator behaviors. Children sense they are overly assessed and classified, arbitrarily promoted, confined to large groups, and bound to a routine work schedule that values competition and…

Presents several strategies used by teachers committed to providing varied teaching and learning approaches in the middle school; strategies include learning inventories; question posing by young adolescents; projects; and interactive and reflective learning by students. Also discusses the need for professional development for teachers who are…

Examines the conflict which can arise when differing cultural practices of families and child care facilities clash. Presents a case study that exemplifies the potential conflict. Provides advice for child care practitioners on how to combine two differing perspectives and how to move from arguments and misunderstandings to common concerns. (SD)

Youth First conducted focus groups and participatory "youth tribunals" across New Zealand, examining experiences of growing up rural. Common themes included "not being listened to," exclusion from citizen participation, and anxiety about the future. Remarkable differences in experience and views were often found in the same…

Argues that inclusion of children with disabilities into various preschool settings presents opportunities for early childhood educators to address issues of differences through the use of effective tools and teaching strategies. Suggests that a journal-type portfolio is a tool early-childhood educators can use to enhance the acceptance of…

The Attuned Representation Model of eating-disorder etiology and symptom maintenance is a comprehensive model that can effectively guide prevention and treatment efforts by addressing individual, cultural, and interactive issues. The model integrates the risk factors related to the onset of eating-disordered behaviors (i.e., biological,…