Presents an historical overview of the development of research from a narrow input-output approach to a holistic approach that evaluates within-school processes. Finds that selective processes produce higher academic achievement. (CFR)

Reports on a study of 70 secondary female students in mathematics classes over a period of 7 weeks. Finds that self-efficacy was the best predictor of learning intentions. Recommends further research on the relationships between perceived learning environment, self-efficacy, and learning intentions. (CFR)

Maintains that elementary teachers acknowledge that the concept of a homogeneous classroom is a myth. Discusses key teacher behaviors for diverse classrooms. Presents a model lesson and extension activities designed to help students understand and appreciate cultural diversity. (CFR)

Evidence from two school systems whose ability grouping and tracking systems were scrutinized in 1993 in conjunction with school desegregation cases demonstrates how grouping practices can create within-school segregation that discriminates against black and Latino students. In both cases, grouping practices created a cycle of restricted…

Examines effects of tracking in high schools under different structural settings (selectivity, electivity, inclusiveness, and scope), using data for 20,762 students in 805 public and 78 Catholic high schools. Schools vary significantly in the magnitude of track effects on mathematics and verbal achievement. Catholic schools' tracking structures…

Discussion of various types of feedback used in computer-assisted instruction focuses on a study of low-ability eleventh graders that compared the effectiveness of answer until correct (AUC) feedback with knowledge of correct response (KCR) feedback. Achievement data on posttests as well as time data are analyzed. (11 references) (LRW)

Effects of group and individualized mathematics instruction were investigated in high and average ability elementary students, noting the impact of ability grouping on achievement. Students instructed in pairs scored higher on posttests than those working alone. Ability grouping influenced the nature of intragroup interaction. Generating and…

Suggests ways to eliminate ability grouping in the schools, and explores new alternatives to improve schooling for all students. Specific guidelines are given for the development of academically and racially heterogeneous schooling. The elimination of grouping practices that deny equal access to education is a goal worth pursuing. (SLD)

Describes study that examined kindergarten and second grade students' recall of information that had been presented on a computer with varying levels of visual action and verbal labels. Developmental differences in children's use of verbal and visual systems are discussed, and reading ability levels are considered. (29 references) (LRW)

The Fairfax County (Virginia) Schools have developed a pilot program, Success by Eight, that groups students ages 5 to 8 for different types of learning, based on performance in each subject. By restructuring K-2 classes into multiple, flexible groups, the program provides opportunities for continuous learning and development during critical…

A commentary precedes this previously published study that indicates fifth-grade and eighth-grade students in homogeneous classes perceived that their teachers held higher expectations of them than did students who were heterogeneously grouped. The statistical methods used in the study are explained, along with key findings. (Contains references.)…

This report takes a hard look at the day-to-day workings of Palm Beach County (Florida) schools to explain why the systemic change model of Florida's current reform legislation is likely to fail the students in greatest need of improved schooling. The Palm Beach County School District is the 4th largest district in Florida, and the 15th largest in…

This document includes a selection of materials from the National Coalition of Education Activists (NCEA) on tracking and ability grouping designed to be a tool for teachers who wish to organize their school or district against tracking. The packet contains a cover letter, a response/feedback form, and reproductions of the following articles: (1)…

A disproportionate number of minority students in U.S. public elementary and secondary schools are in lower-ability classes and special education programs. This has led to Congressional concern about student resegregation resulting from within-school discrimination. The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible for…

The construct validity of four self-concept (SC) traits (general SC, academic SC, English SC, mathematics SC), as measured by three different scales (Likert, semantic differential, Guttman) for low- (n=252) and high-track (n=588) Canadian high school students, was assessed using both the Campbell-Fiske criteria, and a comparison of hierarchically…