This study investigated the effectiveness of a second language program in seven schools in a medium-sized school district in central California during the 1994-95 school year. Three educational levels (elementary, middle, and high school) were examined from the perspectives of teachers (n=194), administrators (n=23), instructional aides (n=40),…

This report overviews the rationale for conducting an ethnographic study of cultural factors that influence student aspiration in Tremont, a small rural community on Mount Desert Island, Maine. Although Tremont is the poorest community on Mount Desert Island, Tremont students scored as well or better on the Maine Educational Assessment than did…

This report examines resources supporting technology in New York public schools and how well state policies and funding streams support the New York State Regents' goals. It also explores proposed fiscal and operational changes that contribute to or inhibit effective integration of technology within the curriculum. The report discusses some…

This teaching module instructs preservice teachers about accelerating the progress of rural gifted students. Acceleration consists of various provisions that allow early completion of school, including grade-skipping, cross-grade placement, early entry, dual attendance, special class placement, and radical acceleration. In rural areas, the…

The whole language approach to reading instruction emphasizes a literature-based program rather than the traditional skills-related approach. The principles and practices of whole language have engendered both educational and political debate for the following reasons: whole language challenges the traditional educational power arrangement, giving…

A study investigated the characteristics of 14 second language institutes available to adults in Sana'a (Yemen), an area in which second language instruction has historically been difficult to obtain. Data were gathered through interviews and observation. It was found that seven of the institutions offer English instruction, and five offer Arabic…

This study explored faculty views about a new concept, departmental vision. Since the literature presents many different views of what the term "vision" encompasses, this study sought to establish criteria useful in an academic setting. The study was conducted at a large midwestern public research university; data were collected through…

Understanding the principles of sustainability and the interdependence of the environment, the economy, and social systems can help individuals learn to make the changes necessary to become effective stewards of natural resources and the environment. This document describes three broad policy recommendations as to how Americans can build concepts…

This textbook introduces teachers to the world of social studies teaching and learning in elementary and middle schools. The book is divided into three parts. Part 1, "Orientation to Social Studies Education," consists of sections (1) "Social Studies Education: What and Why?" and (2) "The Children We Teach." Part 2, "The Social Studies…

This instructional unit is aimed at Grade 4, limited-English-proficient (LEP) students in language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, music, art, physical education, and drama. It uses the California "Gold Rush" historical time period to teach students English language, concentrating on pre-production, early production, speech…

In 1990, President Bush and the nation's governors adopted the six National Education Goals as part of a campaign to increase educational performance at all levels. Goal 3 states that, by the year 2000, American students will leave grades 4, 8, and 12 having demonstrated competence in challenging subject matter, including English, mathematics,…

These guidelines are intended to provide a resource to use in assessing, planning, providing, evaluating, and improving the quality of programs for California pupils with severe orthopedic impairments. The first three chapters present characteristic elements of a well-designed program in the areas of: (1) identification and assessment, (2) the…

Data on students participating in transitional bilingual education programs (TBEs) in Massachusetts, in the 50 local education authorities (LEAs) with such programs, are reported and analyzed. Information presented, in graphic and narrative form, includes the following: an overview of the status of TBE programs in the state, including patterns of…

This guide outlines the topics of instruction and goals/objectives of a semester-long half-unit laboratory course in environmental technology (Agriscience 384) that is part of Texas' agricultural science and technology program. Presented first are lists of the following: essential elements common to all agricultural science and technology courses…

A study undertaken to create a profile of 15- to 18-year-old students in minority French language schools in Ontario is reported. The first chapter describes the study's methodology, which included review of education ministry documents and other research, and interviews with students and educators. The second chapter summarizes research findings…