Discusses a method of finding and implementing articles from among the sizeable amount of professional literature regarding cooperative learning. Describes the application of three teaching models (1) jigsaw, (2) group investigation, and (3) cybernetics that apply cooperative learning to elementary and secondary social studies instruction. (SG)

Describes the History and Technology Project (HAT) at a model technology school. Offers suggestions of suitable hardware and software, and ideas for funding. Emphasizes the goal of integrating technology into all levels of history and social science. Calls for increasing teacher-student interaction and restructuring teaching methods to reach all…

Explores the idea of school-community councils as a way of establishing a social compact between schools and the community. Specific suggestions are given for establishing councils and keeping them functioning smoothly. Literature and community resources that can help are suggested and listed. (SLD)

The development of a multicultural center at Prospect Middle School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was a response to the increase of racism and bigotry. Academic performance for both African-American and white students has improved significantly, and overall suspension rates have dropped by nearly 50 percent. (MLF)

Discusses results from studies reported from 1958-86 examining the different methods of teaching calculus. Alternatives to lecture presentations to supplement and enhance learning include discovery and group learning, self-paced classes, programed materials, and use of computers. (over 50 references) (MDH)

New Standards Project is consortium of 17 states and 6 leading school districts working with cluster of specialists to design and implement system of performance standards, authentic assessments, and professional development aimed at improving educational equity and excellence. New matrix examinations and portfolios will yield results that can be…

This supplement offers 10 articles focusing on middle school education. Topics include remembering adolescence, resources and teaching tips, active middle school students, adolescent development, challenges in middle school education, integrated studies, planning middle school special events, a writing-science-consumerism miniunit on popcorn,…

The efficacy of small groups in performing school task work was studied for eight groups of Swedish ninth graders (n=35) videotaped in class. Three judges ranked the groups' cooperation. Videotape transcripts were analyzed for directional factors. Three groups functioned well. Directional factors resulting in good group functioning are discussed.…

Traces the growth of a traditional classroom teacher working with children, aged 9-12, in an informal after-school drama program. Discusses dramatics teaching strategies, the use of imaging, empowering children to create, and the development of language through use in a purposeful context. Contains 22 references. (Author/SV)

This study evaluated the effectiveness and efficiency of the Georgia Cooperative School Programme which provides work experiences for high school students with mental retardation or other disabilities through coordination with rehabilitation services. Evaluation indicated the program appears to prevent some dropouts but improved interagency…

Reviews organizational approaches adopted in different countries for resource management in distance education and compares the cost structure of distance education and conventional education. Resource implications of alternative organizational approaches are briefly examined. Ireland's cooperative approach is described and cost-effective computer…

Demonstrates a laboratory to teach the concept of moment of inertia in which students are asked to identify four objects of equal mass sealed in unopenable containers by identifying the mass distribution of each object. Gives instructions to build an instrument to determine relative distribution of mass. (MDH)

Describes student development and production of a documentary film honoring local Vietnam veterans. Suggests that forming partnerships for learning is beneficial and successful and that using modern technology is the key to student motivation. Recommends student involvement in instructional television as a means of inspiring learning activities.…

Discusses policy themes that emerged from the articles in this special issue. Themes concern the complexities of public school preschool education, the need for collaboration and unified governance, the importance of the social and cultural contexts of preschool programs, and the expanding roles of federal and state agencies. (LB)

Effects of group and individualized mathematics instruction were investigated in high and average ability elementary students, noting the impact of ability grouping on achievement. Students instructed in pairs scored higher on posttests than those working alone. Ability grouping influenced the nature of intragroup interaction. Generating and…