Most studies of the early implementation of Chicago (Illinois) school reform have focused on the creation and early functioning of the Local School Councils (LSCs). This study is concerned with understanding the resources that different school communities have to embrace the LSC reform, the time frame needed to promote educational change, and the…

This "Fastback" focuses on avoiding boredom in schools. Following an introduction that explains the importance of teachers breathing life into subject matter, the booklet includes five sections. Section one, "The Nature of Boredom," defines boredom and explains that both teachers and students are responsible for beating…

In this study, the effects of perceived parental expectation, trait effort, trait self-efficacy, trait ability, state self-efficacy, state effort, and state worry on the mathematics achievement of high and low track high school students in Taiwan were investigated. A hypothesized model of these constructs was also investigated using a structural…

This paper examines, through the eyes of Benjamin, a troubled Hispanic high school student in the Bronx, how the character of the school is reflected in the way that it flows around, or evades, its more troubled students. The paper discusses a relatively new school's attempt to understand itself and to define its point of intersection in the life…

This study examined the teaching practices of Maria, a special education teacher who worked with students who had multiple disabilities, were nonverbal, and used augmentative and alternative communication. The study focused on the complex, interdependent, and dynamic nature of teacher knowledge, beliefs, and practices, illuminating the connection…

In parents' quest to keep children "well-rounded" with out-of-school activities, they leave little time for homework and other activities considered by many to be important for their education. However, those parents who advocate for reduced homework loads, stress-free schoolwork, and an increase in extracurricular activities may actually be doing…

This report details the 28th annual study to examine the attitudes of student leaders in U.S. high schools. Participating in the survey were 3,210 adolescents, primarily 16- and 17-year-olds, who had been featured in the 1997 edition of "Who's Who Among American High School Students." The report presents demographic information on the…

This book contains nine chapters, by various authors, containing research and policy perspectives on issues of mutual obligation between teachers and students, especially in Australia. The following are included: (1) "Researching Literacy, Language, and Numeracy and Mutual Obligation: An Introduction to Some Issues" (Sheilagh Kelly and…

Several data sources indicate that the desire to obtain both a college and university credential in Ontario's postsecondary system is considerable. Aspirations at the start of college are high, with at least one quarter of college students having serious intentions of attaining a degree after a diploma. Data sources include the College Student…

Looking at four different scenarios for Florida's future--continued growth, new federalism, depression/hurricane, and third wave--can help clarify goals for the future. Each scenario's effect on such key areas as energy use, transportation, water, and education is considered. (IS)

This study examined how a beginning teacher's autonomous teaching beliefs were translated into classroom practice. Observations and interviews indicated that she had an overarching belief in autonomy as an avenue for participation in democratic society. However, she encountered extreme pressure to conform to the school's existing teacher-oriented…

Explores the effects of deindustrialization and the shift to a postindustrial society on the hopes and dreams of urban high school students. Uses the concept of liminality to characterize urban environments as transitional intersections of socioeconomic change. Includes verbatim comments from urban youth about the efficacy of their future. (MJP)

Examines the role of Canadian supervisors working with aboriginal student teachers and their non-Aboriginal cooperating teachers in the extended practicum. The article discusses how to solve interpersonal dilemmas using the contextual supervision model which conceptualizes the supervisory process and generates possible strategies to guide…

Reports on a study of 135 Russian and 279 U.S. teachers on the importance of 11 broad educational goals. Finds that U.S. teachers were most committed to basic skills development and critical thinking. Finds that Russian teachers were most supportive of interpersonal understanding, human relations, and ethical well-being. (CFR)

Correlational findings based on 423 students in sixth and seventh grades indicate that prosocial and antisocial behavior are related significantly to grade point average and standardized test scores and to teachers' preferences for students and academic behavior. The role of social behavior in promoting classroom learning is discussed. (SLD)