Considers the need for staff training in virtual libraries. Highlights include instruction and training, including in-house training, vendor contracts, and self-paced instruction; documentation; current awareness via professional literature, electronic discussions, bibliographies, and conferences; information filtering through selective…

Provides an overview of alternatives to whole-class instruction which incorporate limited individualization. Discusses the purpose and process of using tiered activities, learning outcomes/mastery learning, learning centers, cooperative learning, computer-assisted learning, and self-directed learning (including negotiated contracts, journals,…

Discusses activities for use in multilevel language classes, or in regular classes with students of varying abilities. They include start-up activities suitable for everyone, activities where students perform a task at different levels, and activities that incorporate a variety of different activities. Small group and individual activities are…

This response to a previous article comparing guidelines for developmentally appropriate practice in the fields of early childhood education and early intervention/special education stresses the importance of individualizing application of principles and the need to look beyond effectiveness and efficiency as dimensions for evaluating practice.…

Suggests that music education by its nature is well suited to meeting the special needs of at-risk students. Discusses the role of music in motivating and enabling students to succeed. Defines the causes of failure as inability and lack of desire to learn when at-risk students receive the wrong kind of instruction. (DK)

Describes a flexible model for developing library research skills based on analysis of a relevant text. Students begin by tracing endnotes, reflecting on purpose each cited source serves in fulfilling writer's goals, and practicing locating similar resources. Model can be adapted to individual instruction, group instruction, or computer assisted…

Two studies compared the performance of students (total n=66 and ages 5-21) with autism or developmental disabilities in one-to-one instruction to performance of those transitioned to small groups. Results indicated successful transition to small group formats across curriculum areas including language, math, readiness, and shopping. (Author/DB)

Describes the use of Keller's Personalized System for Instruction with the addition of videotapes, interactive videodisc, and computer-delivered tutorials in an undergraduate mathematics course. Modifications of Keller's plan for British universities are discussed, examination results are studied, and the quality of the learning experience is…

Questionnaire responses from 6 samples totaling about 2,000 third- and fourth-grade teachers were analyzed regarding the extent to which gifted and talented students receive differentiated education in regular classrooms. The study found that teachers made only minor modifications in the regular curriculum, with provision of thinking and…

The Teen Parenting Program, combining individualized academic and parenting instruction, has decreased future costs to society by reducing the dropout rate for expectant mothers from 80 percent to 38 percent and second pregnancy rates from 30-45 percent to 8 percent and by increasing birthweights of babies born to program mothers. Describes the…

Reasons for the increased interest in "self-access" learning in language classrooms are explored, particularly the shift from teacher-centered to learner-centered learning. Ways that a Malaysian teachers college set up a self-access learning center are described. (Contains seven references.) (LB)

Describes strategies for teaching middle school students in a manner that promotes inclusion while allowing for individual differences, including the needs of special-needs students. Strategies discussed include the use of journals, student designed projects, hands-on experiences, and role play or simulation. (DB)

Examines the extent to which recently published, widely used basal reading series included specific suggestions for grouping students for instruction. Analyzes first-, third-, and fifth-grade teachers' editions of materials for each of the basal reading programs selected. Addresses the need for curriculum and materials that build in opportunities…

The GenTechnique project at Washington State University uses a networked learning environment for molecular genetics learning. The project is developing courseware featuring animation, hyper-link controls, and interactive self-assessment exercises focusing on fundamental concepts. The first pilot course featured a Web-based module on DNA…

English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) teachers should not reject traditional methods of imparting knowledge. Storytelling, repetition through chanting, memorizing, and logical analysis all have a place in EFL instruction alongside contemporary approaches. Each child has a different mind and deserves to be taught appropriately. Whole brain teaching,…