Discusses problems involved in scientific explanation in general and their relevance to theories of second-language acquisition (SLA) in particular. The property theory/transition theory distinction and the deductive-nomological model are examined. The use of Lipton's (1991) "best explanation" concept in evaluating SLA theoretical frameworks is…

Of 1,243 secondary students randomly assigned to treatments, the experimental group received keyboarding instruction plus basic English instruction 3 times per week for 8 weeks. They showed statistically significant achievement in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and capitalization when theory and practice were integrated. Keyboarding speed and…

Examination of 27 studies on spelling instruction for students with learning disabilities suggests several activities that may enhance learning, such as limiting number of new words introduced, facilitating student-directed and peer-assisted instruction, providing immediate error correction, and including instruction in morphemic analysis. Future…

Reviews existing studies of use of formal care by families of Alzheimer's sufferers with special attention to findings relevant to access, particularly perceptions of appropriateness and acceptability or consistency with other needs and values. Applied conceptual model represented by these findings to narrative that serves as proxy for real case.…

Problem-solving teams substantially influence organizational performance in restructured schools. This article examines the concepts of teamwork and team effectiveness, as related to functions of problem-solving teams. A case study of a successful team effort to improve elementary students' reading scores provides a framework for developing…

Freeman and Richards agree about points raised regarding the overlap among categories of teaching and classroom practice but note that the categories might contribute to the analysis and understanding of teacher education programs and practices. (Contains nine references.) (LB)

Presents action-theoretical approach to evaluation of career development programs based on constructionist epistemology. Propositions from action-theoretical perspective center around career and action as related, interpretative constructs. Propositions give rise to implications for evaluation of career programs that address ongoing nature of…

Examines professional response to child sexual abuse. Considers problems with current practice and research, what maintains current professional behavior, and whether individual professionals improve children's welfare. Documents numerous professional practices that may harm children. Highlights ways that individual professionals can promote…

In responding to commentaries by Ceci and Bruck, Pezdek, and Faulconer, authors of original article (all this issue) on child sexual abuse restate original argument that children's well-being should determine all professional action, no matter how painful this may be for professional. Authors then address specific issues raised in commentaries,…

This introductory article reviews trends in research in intellectual disability in Australia and reports on a workshop of the Research and Development Advisory Committee of the Department of Community Services and Health, that identified knowledge gaps and key issues. A coherent programmatic research agenda, characterized by interaction between…

A conceptual framework for home economics asks the questions What is the purpose of home economics? What is the field's structure? What are model cases of the field's actions? and What arguments explain and evaluate the field? The framework can clarify understanding of home economics' mission and enable practitioners to interpret subject matter.…

Guidelines are offered for institutions seeking funds for applied research intended to lead to the commercialization of a product or process. Developed by the National Association of Home Builders' National Research Center, the guidelines suggest consideration of appropriate research performers, beneficiaries, risks, adoption of results, and…

Suggests ways to minimize the negative effects of extrinsic group rewards in cooperative classrooms, explains how to use intrinsic rewards, and outlines conditions calling for extrinsic rewards. The "social rewards" of working cooperatively probably enhance intrinsic motivation and are among the great advantages of employing cooperative…

Addresses three questions: Why teach study skills? How can teachers teach study skills? and When can teachers find time to teach study skills? (MG)

After 26 years as a supervisor, researcher, and professor, the author recounts 4 months spent as an interim principal, detailing the massive changes occurring in supervision and leadership responsibility. The most pronounced changes are the development of teaching as a shareable craft, the limitation of principal authority, and the openness of…