This article describes efforts to help prospective teachers take a reflective approach to the translation of theory into practice through a practicum experience in a social studies methods course. Also described are the knowledge base and procedures for the course. An assessment of the outcomes is related. (IAH)

Describes the experiences of one public elementary school's American Council on Learned Societies team of six fifth-grade teachers and a librarian. Composed of diverse, seasoned teachers, the team supported an already established system in developing curriculum for teaching about ancient Middle Eastern civilization. The paper describes the teaming…

A course at De Montfort University (Great Britain) in industrial analysis with 111 students was taught using small student teams to research specific industries. It emphasized the relationship between theory, research, and industrial applications. The experiment provided students with insight into effective research methods and cooperative work.…

An innovative introductory course in clinical dentistry is described and evaluated. The course uses a cooperative-learning technique to exploit prior knowledge and encourage collaboration. Major components include didactic readings, clinical exercises, and related group activities. Performance results and student evaluations strongly support use…

This article explores the possible integration of Title 1 compensatory education and special education programs which currently coexist in about 65% of all public elementary schools. Integration is often achieved through cooperative teaching or blended funding of staff salaries. Profiles of local efforts at program integration are provided.…

Student behaviors that best predicted mathematics learning in peer-directed small groups among students who needed help were studied with 166 seventh graders. Tape recordings of student interaction confirmed that receiving explanations and carrying out constructive activity were predictors of achievement. (SLD)

This article explores the efficiency of team teaching, curriculum development, and reflection as frameworks for promoting the successful integration of general education and special education in middle school environments. The effectiveness of a model involving collaboration among general education teachers, special educators, graduate students,…

Briefly describes a workshop model developed by the Texas Learning Technology Group to educate teachers about technology uses in the science curriculum. Highlights include hands-on experience, cooperative small group activities, print and electronic courseware, and implementation strategies. (LRW)

Provides an overview of alternatives to whole-class instruction which incorporate limited individualization. Discusses the purpose and process of using tiered activities, learning outcomes/mastery learning, learning centers, cooperative learning, computer-assisted learning, and self-directed learning (including negotiated contracts, journals,…

A single-subject design utilized three mainstreamed hard-of-hearing students in middle school to evaluate whether cooperative learning was effective in encouraging conversational interaction with hearing peers and teachers. Results indicated that cooperative learning positively influenced the conversational turns, initiations, moves, and mean…

A study investigated the processes underlying acquisition of French by students in two late immersion programs (grades 8-10) in Queensland (Australia). Focus is on three features: the cooperative learning situation that developed, idiosyncratic language that emerged, and students' patterns of socialization. (31 references) (Author/MSE)

Describes teaching methods employed in German elementary school classrooms that develop discovery, creativity, and a spirit of cooperation in students learning mathematics. Methods included free choice of learning activities by students and small group cooperative activities. Students' motivation, self-confidence, social and communications skills,…

Guidelines for implementing a transdisciplinary (TD) team approach for delivering special education services to rural students cover team development, assessment, program planning, implementation of service delivery, training of team members, role release, ongoing monitoring, and regular team meetings. Includes a checklist for evaluating teams…

Reports a survey of students' satisfaction in a cooperative learning college-level introductory biology course offered, with changes, over 3 years. The survey found that cognitive diversity increases group conflict and concluded that there can be no "perfect course" due to the diversity of cognitive styles found in any class. Using a…

This study compared selected cooperative learning methods (drill and review dyads, cooperative response techniques, and group grading incentives) with traditional learning methods among a group of 61 undergraduates in 2 educational psychology classes. On three of four measures of achievement, the cooperative group showed significantly stronger…