Describes an activity in which students utilize mathematical communication and reasoning skills to develop a class constitution. Students brainstorm rules for their classroom in cooperative-learning groups, classify them into categories, and justify their decision to the class. (MDH)

Presents an excerpt from the journal of a second grade teacher who reflected on the daily challenges and possibilities of learning in a child-centered, meaning-based classroom free of workbooks and standardized testing; an interview with author Nancie Atwell, a language specialist and veteran teacher; and suggestions for books and journals. (SM)

Describes the development of the National History Education Network (NHEN). Suggests that the network will serve as a clearinghouse for information and an advocacy center. Discusses network goals for collaborative efforts involving primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, and museums and other cultural institutions. Includes…

The author's personal experiences in overcoming mathematics anxiety provide insights into how teachers can create a classroom environment to help students develop self-confidence by assessing students' feelings, using cooperative-learning techniques, showing more patience, and having students write about their experiences. (MDH)

Discusses cooperative learning methods for promoting promoting students' peer interaction, self-esteem, interdependence, and academic advancement. Concentrates on the jigsaw method and peer interdependence. Includes discussion of prejudice and the encouragement of interracial contact. Concludes that working toward a common goal should help to…

Presents a study of the cooperative learning method "Jigsaw II." Reports superior academic achievement effects are inconsistent with poorer results reported in earlier studies. Discusses a modification incorporating a group goal achievable only by contribution of all group members. Concludes that cooperative learning must include a group…

Describes the development of an interactive model for library instruction in a large-enrollment undergraduate engineering course at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (New York). The model, which is based on the Karplus Learning Cycle, has provided an effective framework for library instruction within the undergraduate engineering curriculum.…

Describes elements of a partnership between Dallas County Community College District and Texas Instruments that draws on the concepts and processes of Total Quality Management (TQM). Suggests that such partnerships have the net effect of significantly improving and reinventing cooperative efforts to prepare students for the workforce. (MAB)

Describes collaborations supported by the National Science Foundation among industry, higher education, elementary and secondary schools, and other institutions to develop and test applications of computer and communication networks in support of innovations in science and math education. Highlights include descriptions of four pilot testbeds and…

Reports an effort to stimulate teacher efficacy by providing a teacher inservice to increase knowledge and skill in cooperative-learning techniques. Researchers measured teacher efficacy three times over eight months. Results indicated use of inservice knowledge, not exposure to it, contributed to changes in efficacy; and general, not personal,…

Examines recent research into gender differences in learning styles and presents a case for creating effective collaborative learning experiences for female students, thus minimizing the alienation and disadvantage that many women and girls experience in a computer environment. A checklist for creating gender equitable learning environments is…

A high school English teacher used Foxfire principles to teach two classes, one with students who lacked successful school experiences and one with students who had more success in school but needed structured environments. Students became more active participants in learning through positive learning experiences, forging bonds with the teacher.…

This is the executive summary of a project conducted by the Federation of American Research Networks and the Consortium for School Networking that considered ways to support and promote school networking and formulated recommendations for the National Science Foundation. Highlights include educational reform, partnerships with industry, and a…

Reviews labor market needs projected for the year 2000. Discusses specific efforts of community colleges nationwide to promote economic development through customized contract training programs. Examines the role of small businesses in contract training and the likely impact of changing telecommunications technology on customized training and…

An undergraduate course in pharmacology in which problem-based self-directed learning in the context of small groups provides students with an opportunity to take greater responsibility for their own learning is described. The objectives, examples of problems used in the course, and student evaluations of the course and tutors are included. (KR)