Constructivist theory has brought significant momentum to all aspects of teacher education. Currently, personal growth of the individual in educational domains is so important that teacher candidates are asked to develop their reflective skills in many courses so that they grow by having internalized and problematized the issues under study by…

Recent research on early brain development holds several implications for parents, teachers, health professionals, and policymakers. This report, based on the proceedings from a 1996 national conference on the importance of early brain development for the nation's future well-being, highlights major findings, summarizes their implications for…

The United Kingdom higher education system is being encouraged to provide opportunities for students to acquire key skills/employability skills and to become better learners with a greater awareness of their individual learning needs, including the need to develop habits that will lead to lifelong learning. A number of issues need to be resolved…

This document presents an innovative curriculum framework for helping individuals aged 16-25 years reconnect with learning and develop the "soft skills" needed to manage their lives and relationships. The guide contains ideas and approaches to help mentors and program managers implement the Getting Connected program, which is designed to…

This booklet presents the stories of several students who were the first generation in their families to go to college, in order to dramatize the door-opening, life-changing power of Pell Grants and related student assistance. These stories synthesize interviews with more than 20 low- and moderate-income students who could not have attended…

This instructional guide for a one-half-credit technical course for grades 10-12 focuses on personal development, interpersonal relationships, effective individual and family functioning, and career preparation. Introductory materials consist of a course description; overview of course design; facilities, equipment, and resources; and a section on…

This study looked at New Chance, a voluntary randomized trial of an intensive program for teenage mothers and their children that operated nationally between 1989 and 1992. The study examined the effects of maternal psychosocial well being, intensity of work and educational pursuits, home environment, and use of childcare on combined experimental…

This book is the second to present the results on a study of how children's practice of speech, as shaped by family interaction, affects learning to talk. Participating in the study were 42 diverse families with young children. Each month for 2.5 years the interactions between 42 one- to two-year-olds and their parents were recorded as the…

The Traveling Psychology Fair is designed to bridge the gap between secondary and college psychology education, encourage enthusiasm for the study of psychology, enhance teaching resources for high school psychology instructors, and promote a deeper understanding of psychological principles for psychology majors. Consisting of 24 outreach…

Data gathered from a national sample of 17-year-old high school students were used to correlate social studies achievement and attitude scores with various constructs previously determined to affect learning. Several significant correlations were found, both positively and negatively affecting learning outcomes. (CJ)

Provides an overview of the research literature concerning the development of graphic art skills, relevant instructional methods, and the specific use of visual models as an instructional method. Pertinent findings, relevant methodological issues, and major conclusions are all discussed. Briefly addresses the viewpoints of gestalt and learning…

Examined main and interactive effects of multiple social risk factors and preschool IQ and mental health on students' academic trajectories from first to twelfth grade. Found that high-risk students had lower grades and more absences from first to twelfth grade than low-risk students. Higher IQ and better mental health improved the grade point…

A strategic planning task force at Denver University's Penrose Library conducted needs assessment and established a staff development program to address: orienting new staff; software training; and professional and personal development. Postprogram evaluation found improved morale, communication, and recognition of different learning styles, plus…

Presents a look at individual responsibility and decision making (here defined as planfulness) and how it is affected by external factors of social and economic turmoil. Utilizes data from a longitudinal study of privileged men born between 1904 and 1917 and their educational attainment in subsequent years. (MJP)

Describes an assignment where students chart the development of a film or literary character's racial identity according to theoretical models of identity development. Students found the exercise thought-provoking, intriguing, and informative. Includes outlines of the racial identity model and an examination of the issues raised during discussion.…