Explains how curriculum materials have played an uneven role in educational practice and proposes how the boundaries between teachers and materials in the construction of the curriculum can be redrawn. Discusses how curriculum materials act as agents of instructional improvement; examines the relations between textbooks, teachers, and teaching;…

Examines parent involvement complexities from the differing standpoints of school volunteers and teachers, mostly women. Explores the construction of the family-school relationship in four Louisiana schools serving low-income children. For educators, parental involvement was ideologically bounded by school walls. Parents' descriptions stressed…

In instructional design, goal analysis is used to identify what the learner should be able to do after mastering the instructional goal. Three important issues are discussed: defining the parameters for goal analysis; problems with approaching analysis from a teaching perspective; and the importance of goal analysis for effective instruction. (AEF)

Argues that individual differences should be given a central role in modeling training programs. Examines the effect of training on individual differences, how the study of individual differences can contribute to the understanding of the learning process, and the effect of social environment on learning and performance from the perspective of…

A survey of 205 special education teachers investigated how lesson plans were developed, what components were included, and what recommendations they had for beginning teachers. Results indicated the majority did not write out their lesson plans but recommended that beginning teachers write out lesson plans. (CR)

Citations (n=675) regarding classroom practices in journals dedicated to gifted education from 1989 to 1996 were reviewed. Only five percent of the identified references addressed issues of demonstrated effectiveness with acceptable research standards. Most of these focused on specific instructional strategies and program models that were found to…

This paper reviews findings from comprehensive early intervention studies with young children with autism and formulates questions that need to be answered to establish efficacious, accessible early treatment. Results suggest that intensive, very early treatment appears to lessen the debilitating effects of autism. Research questions involve…

Some insights and reflections based on experiences in trying to implement some feminist pedagogical principles and practices in women's studies courses in Japan are presented. Data from roughly 1,500 students reveal the difficulties in such teaching and the potential for change in Japanese education. (SLD)

Discusses the traditional practices and the theories that have been adopted by many early childhood professionals in Australia. Questions the implicit codes of Western schooling, highlighting the ethnocentric framework of early childhood education in many countries. Presents and discusses findings from a study of Australian indigenous families…

Reviews research published in North America concerning how years of education, amount of specialized education, and years of experience relate to early childhood teaching practices. Finds that amount of formal schooling correlated with overall classroom quality and, less often, with effective teacher behavior. Specialized education may be causally…

Provides a sampling of culturally sensitive educational practices in early childhood education programs. Includes suggestions for classroom decor, educational materials, and the following classroom learning centers: dramatic play and prop boxes, blocks and construction, science and cooking, creative art, music and movement, and library. Asserts…

Focuses on how music teachers can assist high school students to prepare for a college audition and to select the right music program. Explains what audition committees look for in music students. Includes tips teachers can share with their students on program selection and the audition. (CMK)

Weaves into the adolescent concept of community those Montessori ideas related to laws of human personality, nature, and society. Examines components of Montessori practice and theory, including the importance of work, the prepared environment, social cohesion, the imagination, and the absorbent mind by linking early childhood and adolescence.…

Explores the creation of a computer laboratory that was built for the graduate program in planning, policy, and leadership studies. Provides background information and a description of the laboratory. Discusses the training and orientation of the users, general maintenance of the laboratory, the personnel, and the maintenance costs involved. (CMK)

Discusses how the teacher received a grant for an interdisciplinary unit on Russia. Addresses the importance of cross-curricular teaching in obtaining a grant. Provides five ideas to help teachers improve their chances of receiving a grant and offers a list of funding sources. (CMK)