The seven chapters of this special issue explore problems in how to better understand the reasoning process that is used to establish evaluative conclusions. The many unanswered questions about reasoning should stimulate further investigation of the meaning of sound evaluative reasoning. (SLD)

Describes the use of a graphic organizer--webs--to help students learn to connect concepts in mathematics. (MKR)

When older and younger students are paired, motivation, cooperation, friendship, and self-esteem flourish, and extra learning takes place. The article describes how to match students, presents five cross-grade projects, discusses project evaluation, and offers the option of cross-grade tutors. (SM)

The literature on novice-expert shifts in teacher knowledge is examined from the perspective of constructivist learning theory with a view to identifying lessons for teacher educators. Limitations in teacher knowledge are explored, and three requirements are outlined for a research agenda on teacher's learning. (SLD)

Reviews existing data regarding the etiology and treatment of male and female sexual dysfunctions. Discusses the use of multidimensional assessment models, especially in the evaluation of erectile dysfunction and sexual pain disorders. Despite the conceptual and technological sophistication of current approaches, treatment outcomes are…

Discusses classic and contemporary approaches to the assessment of female sexuality. General approaches, assessment strategies, and models of female sexuality are organized within the conceptual domains of sexual behaviors, sexual responses, and individual differences, including general and sex-specific personality models. Highlights trends and…

Describes a social skills training package for the treatment of depressed, visually impaired older adults. The treatment focuses on increasing the frequency and level of assertiveness with which visually impaired older adults interact with one another. Employs standardized assessment measures to evaluate therapeutic progress. (JPS)

Examined Basic School Skills Inventory-Screen to determine its agreement with teacher judgments of student performance to increase relevance of educational programs for young children. Observed and tested primary grade children (n=64) and validated results with second group of kindergartners (n=208). Results were predictive of subsequent school…

Describes a schema-awareness activity (used with sixth graders and college students) that provides teachers with a model of how students can use their past experiences and their ability to infer and predict when reading. Notes that the activity convinces students that they bring to the reading act much more than they encounter on the printed page.…

Describes using portfolio assessment in a language arts methods course. Discusses purposes for portfolios, steps in preparing them, an interim review process, and portfolio evaluation. (SR)

Defines the method of "think alongs," which are representations of a reader's process of constructing meaning. Illustrates how think along methods of reading instruction might be used in secondary science, math, or social studies classrooms by focusing on critical learning issues in each area. (HB)

Presents reading assessment ideas that have provided some useful affective insights with middle school students. Presents assessment ideas related to conative factors, an emerging area of research closely related to affect. (RS)

Investigates whether National Debate Tournament debaters are evaluated differently because of gender. Shows that male speakers received more points than females; the effect was more pronounced in the negative when female judges heard female/female teams; and male judges gave higher points to same-sex teams. Encourages all participants to be…

This paper notes the need for an empirically based model for helping students with disabilities make transitions toward less restrictive settings and exit special education. Emphasis is on defining the least restrictive environment, identifying students with mild disabilities who are potential candidates for reintegration, assessing the…

Describes a study of tutors' experiences with small groups, offering findings from interviews with 37 tutors from 3 colleges as they relate to existing group dynamics research. Discusses tutor and tutee roles, group cohesion, identification of students' needs, development of a workable plan and timeline, jumpstarting, and floor management. Details…