This paper introduces an evaluation tool prepared to examine the quality of visuals in course-books. The tool is based on Mayer's Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning (i.e. Generative Theory) and its principles regarding the correct use of illustrations within text. The reason to generate the tool, the development process along with the…

This manual on the procedures for Texas textbook coordinators is divided into eight sections. Section 1 details general information on textbook responsibilities of individuals and groups, transfers of texts from school to school, textbook funds, waivers for textbook selection, and important facts to remember--rules, deadlines, and changes. Section…

Comments on the Macmillan Publishing Company's guidelines for avoiding sex and racial stereotyping in educational materials. (IRT)

This handbook has been developed to assist school districts in the adoption of textbooks. The criteria for establishing a textbook selection process are included, as well as selection criteria for specific subject areas. Procedural steps are initially outlined for preliminary activities, book examination procedure, and implementation, and then a…

Condensed from "The Reading Teacher, Volume 22 (December 1968), 211-15.

The need for a contrastive approach in foreign language teaching has long been recognized, but in the construction of textbook materials and in classroom practice it has rarely been realized. For pedagogical purposes a useful distinction can be drawn between difference and contrast. Differences can be taught as new items of knowledge, whereas…

The position of the PTA on issues relating to reading instruction is stated. Support for good literature is emphasized, and the topic of censorship is discussed. The methods of teaching reading are seen to involve teachers and other reading professionals, but the right to expect sound reading instruction is viewed as a basic right of the parents.…

The lack of adequate pedagogical material for the teaching of Italian in North America is criticized. Presently available grammars and textbooks are listed with brief descriptions. Criteria, guidelines and requirements for satisfactory elementary and intermediate Italian textbooks are presented. (MS)

If texts are to promote ethnicity, they must (1) be free of excessive biases, (2) describe events and issues from various viewpoints, (3) reflect local, state, and national realities, and (4) present history that focuses on the interactions between established Americans and ethnic groups. (MJB)

Examines the importance of textbooks for learning, especially in developing countries which lack other educational resources. Emphasizes the complex network of educational forces that go into the development, production, and distribution of textbooks in an international context. (BSR)

Elementary school teachers in Texas were surveyed to determine (1) their attitudes toward basal readers; (2) the extent of their use of basal reader programs; and (3) their perceptions of state reading textbook adoption policies. Findings are presented. Issues regarding teachers as decision makers versus technicians are discussed. (Author/MT)

Describes how the nursing faculty at Shoreline Community College developed a process to make textbook selection both more satisfactory and appropriate for the program, and less complicated and time-consuming for educators. Examines important factors, the review form, form content, guidelines, and the review procedure. (CT)

Intended to help college level history teachers choose the texts most appropriate to their teaching methods and student bodies, this article critiques Western and world civilization textbooks. (RM)

Examines obvious and covert efforts of censorship on young adult novels and the publishers' reluctance to provide more realism. Concludes by urging teachers to counteract those forces through diligent consumer education. (HOD)

Textbook publishers are under attack for producing books that are superficial in content and oversimplified or confusing in language. They respond that their products are the inevitable result of applying the many textbook selection formulas to book production. Efforts by educators to improve textbooks are currently being organized. (PGD)