Describes a course for undergraduate students called "Supreme Court Decision Making". Focuses on aspects such as homework assignments, computer practicum (an in-class examination based on testing hypotheses), term paper, and midterm/final. Highlights the benefits of this course. (CMK)

In the past decade, special education in Costa Rica has seen profound changes from creating primarily segregated services to developing innovative service models that promote inclusion. This article describes those changes and takes a look at current challenges in this small country, including teacher shortages and adequate funding. (Contains…

Discusses the possible impact of literacy education standards on children's understanding and perceptions of language with regard to science. Suggests using literacy education for reinforcement and stimulation of scientific knowledge and language. (WRM)

Emerging research on the brain and learning is challenging long established notions about how children should be taught. The authors use this research as a basis for providing more powerful strategies for reaching all students, including those with learning and behavior problems that have led to educational failure. Suggests ideas and practical…

A teacher education field-based course undertook to foster the beliefs and practices of 28 elementary preservice teachers on inclusion. Candidates discussed dilemma cases about experiences with inclusion in communities of practice, on-campus, and in schools. Themes indicated maintaining a critical stance, questioning one's own assumptions, and…

This commentary discusses three previous articles that address the concept of "communities of practice" as a particular theoretical approach to the professional development of teachers. The need to establish a learning community across levels of expertise rather than within them is emphasized. (CR)

This commentary discusses three previous articles that address the concept of "communities of practice" as a particular theoretical approach to the professional development of teachers. Challenges faced in trying to foster community in educational practice are addressed, and the promotion of professionalism in teaching through a dialectical…

This critique of J. Renzulli's review of his own work on gifted education suggests that no classroom observational studies have critically examined the dynamic interaction of Renzulli's Three-Ring Conception of Giftedness model, that within a school context the model is difficult to conceptualize, and that the model's complexity limits the number…

Educational portfolios can happen, even within extremely incompatible organizational structures. When designed in accordance with four principles (opportunities for meaning-making, interactions with people who matter, assemblage over an extended period, and a supportive presentation context) these projects can be transformative and profoundly…

Examines research on sex differences in expectations regarding compliance-related behaviors and the resulting implications for early childhood practice. Identifies sex differences in problem-solving competence and the possible contribution of sex differences in compliance to and dependence on adults. Presents strategies to help preschoolers learn…

This article briefly reviews Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and identifies criteria used to determine whether a student is both "disabled" and "qualified." Then, specific areas of admission, accommodation, and dismissal are examined. Finally, guidelines for professors…

Examines how educational technology's architecture preempts policy decisions, discussing filtering, copyright, and password protection. Outlines four aspects of technology that must be understood before crafting policy: (1) identify critical issues; (2) anticipate vicarious results; (3) explore the range of policies; (4) consider stakeholders'…

Discusses guidelines for the use of the Montessori prepared environment in addressing special needs students, focusing on writing and reading difficulties. Examines the value of Montessori's motor and sensory education as a bridge for both typically and atypically developing children. (JPB)

Documents the history and present state of science education at the primary level in Cyprus against the background of the general educational system and goals. (WRM)

A study examined the perceptions of 169 early childhood educators and 238 early childhood special educators on the importance of practices when applied to young children with and without disabilities. Findings indicate that few differences existed between the two professional groups' perceptions of the importance of these practices. (Author/CR)