Describes an algorithm for planning college-level mathematics lessons based on the identification and achievement of student learning objectives. Discusses the ways in which this algorithm can help novice instructors to include opportunities for active learning in their lessons. (Contains 50 references.) (Author/ASK)

Summarizes research findings and policy implications obtained over a 5-year period from the implementation of an In-Depth Expanded Applications of Science (IDEAS) model with average, above average, and at-risk students in grades 2-5. The IDEAS model replaced the time allocated to traditional reading/language arts instruction with a 2-hour time…

Compares a case where a Jewish museum educator engaged Catholic-school students in ordinary conversations about Jewish people and religion with the classroom teacher's traditional pedagogical approach, arguing that culturally specific museums are valid places for authentic learning. Observation and interview data indicated that the experimental…

Describes a unique field experience, an outgrowth of a partnership with Seton Hall University and The Liberty Science Center (New Jersey), that immerses K-12 teachers in innovative methods of learning and teaching science. Notes the program helps teachers gain firsthand experience, use interactive exhibits at a science center, and adopt the…

Suggests that private consulting is a beneficial tool in classroom teaching. Reports a concerted effort to use private consulting experience in teaching a public relations course, and to evaluate the effectiveness of using the instructor's current consulting project as a teaching tool. Suggests use of real examples had a positive effect on…

Presents a case study of a tutoring session. Includes portions of the student's essay and perspectives from both student and tutor. Presents two responses to the case study that argue for focusing on the writer as a writer of a paper, instead of on the paper as a product of the tutorial; and on what makes a tutoring session effective. (SR)

This article discusses the "hidden curriculum" in schools, its impact on social functioning, and strategies for helping children and youth with Asperger Syndrome learn the hidden curriculum. Strategies include using social stories, acting lessons, self-esteem building activities, cartooning, social autopsies, and the SOCCSS (Situation,…

Social stories and comic strip conversations were successfully used to teach social skills to a 14-year-old student with Asperger Syndrome. As a result of the training, the student's behavior changed. The student enjoyed using comic strip conversations and began to request their use from others at school and home. (Contains references.) (CR)

This article discusses ways that sophistication can be incorporated into the curriculum to address the needs of gifted learners. Educators are urged to use questions, integrated curriculum, problem-based learning, independent and self-directed study projects, and mentor experiences to facilitate the exploration of ideas beyond the scope of the…

This interview with Howard Spicker discusses his early leadership in the Head Start programs of the mid-1960s, his establishment of the Indiana University College for Gifted and Talented Youth, and his development of alternative procedures, instrumentation, and programs for gifted students from special populations. His work on Project SPRING is…

This article discusses a systematic method for selecting assistive technology that enhances or enables people with visual impairments to perform literacy skills. The method identifies critical tasks, personal preferences and abilities, and the relationship of visual, auditory, or tactile media needs to the critical tasks and personal preferences.…

A study explored the internal consistency of items in a visual screening instrument developed by Project PAVE: Expectations for Visual Functioning (EVF). The test includes 20 items that evaluate a child's functional use of vision. A pilot test involving 129 teachers indicates the EFV is internally consistent. (Contains three references.) (CR)

Explores Montessori's concept of cosmic education and recommends expanding it in school curricula. Suggests integration of science about the universe and earth with intuitions about the meaning of life and humans' role in the universe. Discusses God versus chance as the source of life, and emphasizes developing cosmic values and responsibilities.…

Transfers the environment of a large enrollment oceanography course by modifying lectures to include cooperative learning via interactive in-class exercises and directed discussion. Results of student surveys, course evaluations, and exam performance demonstrate that learning of the subject under these conditions has improved. (Author/SAH)

Describes how elementary teachers can give students a boost in content area reading by reading aloud paired nonfiction and fiction text sets, explaining: why nonfiction is so important; how to teach children how nonfiction works; how to carry out a paired text read-aloud; and how to look for evidence of learning in the reading/writing workshop.…