Introduces a simple student-centered activity that can effectively complement a traditional lecture by encouraging group discussion and reflection. Students orally review the lecture in groups and submit summaries to the lecturer that are ultimately compiled into a course review. Discusses the benefits of this practice and students' responses.…

Recommends turning some of the more tedious aspects of elementary instrumental rehearsals (particularly playing scales) into games. Describes a number of educational games that can be constructed around these activities, including a "Wheel of Fortune" parody. (MJP)

Reports on a teaching method that combined assigned daily newspaper readings with weekly informal journal writing to teach basic sociological concepts. Assigned journal topics acted as a link between class material, the newspaper stories, and other texts. Student response was overwhelmingly enthusiastic. Provides several examples of the journal…

Five case studies of implementation of instructional policy changes at the classroom level by elementary-school mathematics teachers are discussed. The case studies focus on California's new Mathematics Framework. The interaction between teacher practice and policy is emphasized. Teachers' inherited beliefs, knowledge, and existing practices are…

Describes possible future uses of multimedia computers for instructional applications. Highlights include databases; publishing; telecommunications; computers and videocassette recorders (VCRs); audio and video digitizing; video overlay, or genlock; still-image video; videodiscs and CD-ROM; and hypermedia. (LRW)

Presents a model of instructional design which links cognitive learning theory and instructional prescriptions. Topics discussed include knowledge types and knowledge acquisition; memory system components; learning time; learning objectives, including skills, cognitive strategies, and creative processes; instructional methods that relate to…

Presents an alternative model for using the computer as an aid in teaching mathematics. Highlights include a mathematics teaching model; computer software for drill and practice, tutorials, simulation, games, and computer managed instruction; integrating computers into the mathematics curriculum; and examples of computer activities for…

Considers the value and success of computer based marketing simulations from the standpoint of both instructors and participants. Distinctions are drawn between simulations and games; applications in higher education in the United Kingdom are described; future possibilities are suggested; and hidden costs in adopting new innovations are examined.…

Discusses the motivation, implementation, and impressions of involving college students in written and oral field guide contributions in two geography classes. Concludes that students learn more from participating, obtain written and oral communication opportunities, and acquire self-esteem by using the approach. (CFR)

Presents the course outline and model of teacher change utilized by the Active and Reflective Teaching in Secondary Mathematics professional development program designed to introduce teachers to current developments in the teaching and training of mathematics. A case study is reported that illustrates and substantiates the initial process of…

The problem-of-the-week (POW) and problem-solving class openers are exemplified as methods for the integration of course-relevant problem solving into a first-year algebra classroom without sacrificing time spent on developing skills and learning concepts. Illustrated examples, as well as problem sources, are included. (JJK)

Describes the integration of math concepts (statistics) and health education (HIV and AIDS prevention) through cooperative learning. The technique, pilot-tested with gifted sixth graders, is recommended for seventh and eighth graders. The program helps students understand health-related statistics and develop personal values about social problems…

Presents a concise introduction and overview of "constructivism." Constructivists assert that knowledge is constructed by individuals; constructivists advocate classroom procedures that encourage students to identify the subjectivity and biases of existing interpretations and to arrive at their own conclusions. Examines four hypothetical teacher…

The primary focus of this participant-centered workshop was to introduce the student-centered classroom. Describes the model for the conference and issues addressed which include process as the missing element in the curriculum; peer-led learning teams; integrating chemistry, mathematics, and physics; writing as a learning tool in chemistry;…

A college teacher and student describe the rationale behind collaborative test taking and their efforts to implement it in a freshman English course. The approach, in which students learn to work collaboratively from the beginning of the course, allows participants to solve problems related to a writing task and teaches real-world work skills.…