The discussion of sustained silent reading (SSR), an independent reading technique commonly used to support native language literacy development, recommends the method in the teaching of English as a second language (ESL). It is argued that because SSR materials are self-selected, they are likely to be selected at an appropriate comprehension…

An indigenous, village-controlled, largely village-funded youth organization in a remote Western Alaska village serves educational, social, recreational, service, and economic functions; provides activities vital to community social/recreational life, relief from stress, and alternatives to substance abuse; and increases competency and sense of…

Good teaching highlights underlying connections between creation and dissemination of knowledge. Analysis of successful biology departments for underlying themes in improving undergraduate education led to the following conclusions: the best kind of teaching is one-on-one; change must be firmly grounded at the departmental or programmatic level;…

Homosexual adolescents are at risk within schools for many health problems. Hostile school environments can often exacerbate their problems. This article summarizes research on issues related to youth sexual orientation, noting controversies surrounding school involvement in the United States and describing programs instituted by school…

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a program to positively influence students about substance use. Drug-free high school students modeled behaviors and social competencies for elementary students through ongoing relationships. Elementary students' surveys supported the use of role models to create a social norm that nonuse is acceptable.…

Points out the power that television has in shaping opinions and in promoting and banishing stereotypes. Presents examples of positive role models in both entertainment and news programing. Emphasizes the importance of reflecting a pluralistic society in news reporting. (LS)

A study of 43 British women university faculty suggested that, in general, women faculty are small minorities, feel isolated and excluded, feel their authority challenged by male students, and pressure themselves to perform better than men. Women faculty tend to have fewer support systems, role models or mentors, and have difficulty with work…

Demonstrates that in two areas of concentrated poverty in Columbus (Ohio), so-called underclass behaviors are not associated with race. A study of neighborhood poverty and political participation in those areas is used to show that whites and African Americans exhibit statistically indistinguishable and substantively similar levels of such…

The theory behind the concept of the teacher as a model is surveyed and illustrated with actual events and techniques from college classrooms, including taking advantage of classroom mistakes to model thinking and problem-solving skills. Student evaluation results indicate that instructor credibility is unaffected by the use of these techniques.…

Discusses girls' use of computers and examines why they are often discouraged and lose interest. Topics addressed include the issue of gender; gender bias in computer games; use of the Internet; exposure to technology; girls' preferences; educational reform; choosing software; technology programs for girls; all-girl classrooms; and role models.…

Reports findings of a Scottish study using questionnaires and interviews to investigate views of 387 college freshmen on course selection, specifically addressing low female enrollment in computing areas. Finds computing students motivated by extrinsic awards. Reveals stereotypes, intimidation fears, lack of role models, and teacher guidance…

The influence of ability, self-efficacy, positivity of role-modeling, and role conflict on higher-level career aspirations was investigated among women majoring in (1) mathematics, physical science, engineering; and (2) biological sciences. Differences between the two groups fit the model. Findings suggest interventions to increase women's…

To determine if non-Native faculty could be effective role models in a Native Studies program, 58 students from two community colleges and one university were surveyed. Natives' and non-Natives' views on role models varied little. Personality, cultural knowledge, and diversity had a greater influence in role-model selection than did cultural…

Presents books to be used in a thematic unit focusing on readers as heroes and heroines in which characters become readers despite being poor, homeless, deaf, visually impaired, dyslexic, or having parents who are illiterate or who read and write in another language. Describes student activities: research, art, writing, family reading, letter…

This pilot study examined the approaches and expectations regarding personal and professional balance among nine student affairs officers. The focus of the exercise was to determine lessons about balance obtained from professionals who have been mentored or are mentoring younger staff. Demographic variables were also examined to determine how they…