This article identifies six core elements that have empirical support and should be included in instructional programs for students with autistic spectrum disorders. They are: (1) individualized supports and services; (2) systematic instruction; (3) comprehensible/structured learning environments; (4) specialized curriculum content; (5) functional…

This article synthesizes articles discussed as part of the research symposium at the 24th International Conference on Learning Disabilities on October 11, 2002. Topics include translating learning disability research to practice, identification of learning disabilities, special education and postmodernism, and the response to treatment model.…

Describes evolution of the Montessori perspective as Montessori adolescent programs attempt to reinforce the elementary and early childhood stages. Asserts that although development of these programs is experimental and undefined, a crystallization point around the whole of Montessori may occur amid diverse implementation. Asserts that Montessori…

Reviews Maria Montessori's view of sensitive periods and examines the kinds of help needed from adults: an open mind, specific help from a prepared learning environment, and challenges presented at the right time. Stresses the universality of sensitive periods and their connection to brain development. Focuses on the unconscious nature and…

Profiles a working model of a 6-to-12 class, operating from the premise that both 6-to-9 and 9-to-12 levels embody the same complete equipping of the prepared environment for the elementary level and include all the elementary presentations. Suggests that key lessons in language, mathematics, science, social studies, and history need to be…

Identifies certain conceptions regarding the science content studied by students aged 9-11 years and develops a strategy for altering these conceptions. Reviews research on misconceptions and defines action research. (DDR)

Raises seven issues to consider: appreciating centrality; enriching communication education through theory; knowing how they got there... and why; teaching communication successfully; celebrating communication skills; creating a sociology of communication education; and making communication education relevant outside of the classroom. (SG)

This review examines the literature on how to teach kindergarten children with reading and writing difficulties how to write. Research on handwriting instruction, spelling instruction, and composition writing is discussed. Although the research on writing instruction in kindergarten is limited, findings suggest it can include instructional…

To better serve the needs of a pluralistic student population, Mount Holyoke College's Career Development Center shifted the focus of its programs and services. This article discusses the dynamic, multidimensional nature of identity and how practitioners might create more effective interventions to support their diverse students. (Contains 13…

Discusses advantages of adjunct teaching responsibilities for librarians based on experiences of the Illinois chapter of the Special Libraries Association (SLA). Describes the class design, the focus on content, and teamwork skills; and considers the theory practice relationship, library education, and future challenges. (LRW)

Presents an ethnographic study that explores young bilingual children's early literacy experiences in three different languages (English, Urdu and classical Arabic) and in three strikingly different types of classes in England. Focuses on one bilingual boy of a Pakistani background. Aims to integrate non-dominating language and literacy practices…

Shares how posing realistic problems with students provides them with an opportunity to value their own opinion and develop effective arguments on their position. (MG)

College of education and school district relationships often resemble a battlefield. Partnerships between schools and other public organizations, including universities, can contribute to the overall success of school improvement activities. This paper identifies relationships and significant programs resulting from a cooperative venture involving…

This article describes an effort to employ cooperative team learning (CTL), specifically the Jigsaw technique, as a vehicle for helping prospective middle school teachers enrolled in a social studies methods course translate theory into practice. Recommendations are made for broader implementation of CTL in middle school teacher education…

Illustrates with one play example, from a five-year study of mentally retarded persons in a state school setting, that the prevailing nature of educational and therapeutic practice needs to be questioned. Identifies the different levels of interpretation and form of analysis in this setting and how each influences the other. (Author/JS)