This book presents a rational discussion process approach to the teaching of specific social controversies in the social studies in secondary schools. The authors provide an in-depth analysis of this approach which includes both theory and application. The introductory chapters place the discussion process framework within terms of American values…

The failures of instructional technology to meet the expectations of the society cannot be attributed to the inadequacies of the field alone. Although educational technology has promised more than it has delivered and has expected more from the schools than it reasonably should have, the threatening social conditions of America must be considered…

The main purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which community consensus existed regarding a variety of major changes in Pittsburgh and the extent to which widely differing perspectives of community leaders might contribute to conflict, or at least significant difficulties, on these issues. A pragmatic secondary objective was to…

This kit provides a summary of a scholarly paper, discussion questions, and activities to promote constructive debate between scholars and ethnic and minority groups about the changing role of the neighborhood in American society. The materials focus on the Chicago area, but the issues and problems apply to any urban area. The paper traces the…

This report contains the National Urban League's statistics on the state of black America. The areas addressed are: the economy, employment, housing, health, education, legislation, crime, and social welfare. By any of the accepted indicators of progress-employment, housing, education, etc.--many of the gains blacks made over the past decade were…

The scientific community needs to reappraise its actions and become concerned with the real world problems that threaten existence in society. These include world poverty, starvation, and declining quality of life. Geographers need to develop greater concern resulting in evaluating their research, curricula, educational goals and course content in…

The nutritional quality of life in Latin America is discussed, and the causes and consequences of the food problem and hunger in Latin countries are examined. (RM)

The National Association for Gifted Children series "Essential Readings in Gifted Education," edited by Sally M. Reis, is a comprehensive collection of the leading research, theories, and findings that span more than 25 years. Each volume tackles the major issues, chronicles chief trends, and imparts effective models and solutions for gifted…

Noting that there are an estimated 1.2 billion 10- to 19-year-olds in the world, this report examines the challenges faced by adolescents in both developing and developed nations. The report describes adolescence as a complex transition during which youth take on new responsibilities and experiment with independence. The importance of the…

The wars of the twentieth century have clarified American librarians' evolving attitudes toward censorship, while at the same time providing impetus for changes in those attitudes. This study uses content analysis to examine librarians' attitudes toward censorship during three periods: the First World War, the Second World War, and the Vietnam…

This student text and teacher's guide feature current events and policy issues that are in discussion today. The books offer background on important domestic and foreign policy issues and present arguments from both sides of key issues. The books are divided into three sections. Section 1, "The Federal Government," contains: (1) "The Clinton…

"Illiterates" are those who have not learned to write in any language. This is the definition on which American and most foreign statistics of illiteracy are based, because the percentage of those who can read but can not write is so small that it may be ignored. The test of writing one's name and ordinary words is simple, easily…

Reprints the California State Board of Education's resolution to endorse Character Counts! Week. Asserts that all educators are obliged to awaken youth to the moral and ethical values that build a fundamental strength of character. Identifies elements of character that are embedded in all curriculum frameworks. (MJP)

Criticizes the recent practice of inviting white supremacists and Holocaust revisionists to speak at local classrooms. Maintains that, rather than expose racial hatred and fanaticism, the visits may create credibility and converts. Suggests alternate activities for teaching about the destructive nexus of racism, violence, and ideology. (MJP)

Criticizes and examines the motives behind Charles Murray's "The Bell Curve." Murray's book claimed that many social problems, including crime and poverty among blacks, could be explained by African Americans' lack of intelligence as evidenced by testing. Reveals the book's skewed methodology as well as its interest-guided financial…