Discusses the format of a semester course and provides details about grading, formative assessment, research papers, lecture activities, cooperative examinations, use of spreadsheets, and open-ended laboratory projects. Contains 15 references. (DDR)

Discusses the problem of educational research volume and the potentially destructive educational fads being introduced into the educational system. Presents a case for the construction of a professional knowledge base, grounded in and informed by research into high-performing schools. (GR)

This article offers an instructional intervention for teaching analytical writing skills to middle school students with and without learning difficulties. The intervention combines direct instruction, peer critiquing (cooperative learning), and a cognitive behavior modification self-regulation strategy. (DB)

Describes how the Michigan City Area Schools adopted a consultation model for identifying preschoolers with disabilities. Under the model, when teachers observe children with learning or behavior problems, they refer them to school counselors. It is then determined if they would benefit from the model's collaborative, multidisciplinary team…

Explains how preservice middle school teachers were brought into contact with at-risk middle school students via e-mail to discuss young adult literature selections. (TB)

Analyzes teacher-fronted and pair interaction involving two learners of Japanese as a second language in an intermediate class. Shows learner-learner collaborative activity between these students of differing levels of proficiency that results in creative interaction that creates a positive learning environment. (57 references) (Author/CK)

Describes TECH CORPS, a nonprofit organization of information systems professionals in 36 states who train teachers, set up school computer labs, and advise about hardware and software purchases. Discusses industry sponsorship; grassroots leadership; and TECH CORPS involvement with both state projects (Hawaii, West Virginia, Washington, DC, New…

Describes a study of Norwegian college students that investigated whether gender, group composition, or self-efficacy in computing has any impact on cooperation, giving or getting task-related help, and level of activity in student groups. Results confirms gender differences in self-efficacy in computing. (Author/LRW)

Reports on a study conducted by a university geography department and its school of education. They divided a World Regional Geography class into two groups. One utilized the traditional lecture method; the other implemented a collaborative learning approach. No significant gain was realized at the conclusion of the study. (MJP)

Describes two elementary teachers' efforts to adapt and implement cooperative learning strategies to meet urban second graders' educational needs. The teachers divided students into groups and created jobs and a system of accountability. Students viewed videotapes of their group activities and evaluated themselves. (SM)

Describes efforts by Texas' University of St. Thomas (UST) to respond to growing numbers of Spanish-speaking students. Highlights a collaborative effort between UST, Shell Oil, and Helms Elementary School to create a bilingual school committed to instilling high expectations in students, fostering community identity, and maintaining strong…

Describes a program in which prospective secondary mathematics teachers develop hypermedia stacks to demonstrate their understanding of important principles of mathematics, teaching, and learning. Discusses cooperative learning in small groups in methods courses and describes students' portfolios created during student teaching. (Author/LRW)

In response to Salish and Kootenai tribal demands for educational equity, a Montana school district chose a reform model based on cooperative learning strategies, which fits American Indian learning styles, and switched from tolerating to celebrating American Indian culture. Academic achievement has risen in all subjects, and the achievement gap…

Presents the Two-Level Cooperative Group Learning Model, a small-group instruction technique, developed at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and based on the Jigsaw II approach. Outlines a sample unit, showing how student expert groups teach their home teams. Demonstrates the technique's benefits: greater student motivation and interaction,…

Describes Catholic priest's founding and operation of Servol, grassroots community assistance and development center in Trinidad. Describes Servol's low-profile service-oriented approach to creating education and health services, programs, and facilities. Describes Servol's difficult transition from quixotic neighborhood project to national and…