Focuses on the use of storytelling as a means of teaching history. Explores the ideas presented by Charles McMurry in his handbook "Special Method in History" that addresses the use of stories in teaching. States that McMurry thought history could be interesting and tangible for even the youngest child. (CMK)

Explores the diary of Karl Clark that focuses on his experiences in the Athabasca tar sands. The diary helps decipher the nature of 1920s town life and the pioneering spirit involved in exploring the oil sands. Includes background information on Clark. (CMK)

Discusses the background, concepts, and problems of the recent debate on quality within Germany's school systems. Questions the internal and external scientific experiences that have led to the concentration on quality maintenance and how far these issues can transfer from the private sector. Pleads for an offensive approach to the issue of…

States that the debate on intercultural pedagogics has centered on the clarification of the concept of culture. Provides two examples taken from the intercultural educational practice illustrating that intercultural pedagogics leads to dilemmas and paradoxes. (CMK)

Explores the role of teachers focusing on the importance of their enthusiasm for teaching. Discusses such topics as teaching styles, the topical coverage of courses, and the attitudes teachers have toward students. Addresses the issues of personal taste and relevance within the realm of topical content. (CMK)

Describes a course for undergraduate students called "Supreme Court Decision Making". Focuses on aspects such as homework assignments, computer practicum (an in-class examination based on testing hypotheses), term paper, and midterm/final. Highlights the benefits of this course. (CMK)

In the past decade, special education in Costa Rica has seen profound changes from creating primarily segregated services to developing innovative service models that promote inclusion. This article describes those changes and takes a look at current challenges in this small country, including teacher shortages and adequate funding. (Contains…

Discusses the possible impact of literacy education standards on children's understanding and perceptions of language with regard to science. Suggests using literacy education for reinforcement and stimulation of scientific knowledge and language. (WRM)

Emerging research on the brain and learning is challenging long established notions about how children should be taught. The authors use this research as a basis for providing more powerful strategies for reaching all students, including those with learning and behavior problems that have led to educational failure. Suggests ideas and practical…

A teacher education field-based course undertook to foster the beliefs and practices of 28 elementary preservice teachers on inclusion. Candidates discussed dilemma cases about experiences with inclusion in communities of practice, on-campus, and in schools. Themes indicated maintaining a critical stance, questioning one's own assumptions, and…

This commentary discusses three previous articles that address the concept of "communities of practice" as a particular theoretical approach to the professional development of teachers. The need to establish a learning community across levels of expertise rather than within them is emphasized. (CR)

This commentary discusses three previous articles that address the concept of "communities of practice" as a particular theoretical approach to the professional development of teachers. Challenges faced in trying to foster community in educational practice are addressed, and the promotion of professionalism in teaching through a dialectical…

This critique of J. Renzulli's review of his own work on gifted education suggests that no classroom observational studies have critically examined the dynamic interaction of Renzulli's Three-Ring Conception of Giftedness model, that within a school context the model is difficult to conceptualize, and that the model's complexity limits the number…

Educational portfolios can happen, even within extremely incompatible organizational structures. When designed in accordance with four principles (opportunities for meaning-making, interactions with people who matter, assemblage over an extended period, and a supportive presentation context) these projects can be transformative and profoundly…

Examines research on sex differences in expectations regarding compliance-related behaviors and the resulting implications for early childhood practice. Identifies sex differences in problem-solving competence and the possible contribution of sex differences in compliance to and dependence on adults. Presents strategies to help preschoolers learn…