Semantic categorization and concept formation models were used as the bases for intervention with adolescents with language-learning disabilities. The approach embraced such teaching procedures as collaboration, holism, student centeredness, guided questioning and scaffolding, and semantic word webbing. The use of cognitive-linguistic training…

A five-session class called "Parenting Bright Children" was designed to help parents of school-aged children assist in their children's education. The class involved discussions of learning theory and practice, as well as hands-on applications of the theory presented. Topics discussed in the class included creativity, perfectionism, learning…

Given the lack of guidance for teachers regarding the role of explicit grammar instruction in the proficiency-oriented classroom, an experiment investigated how well students are able to read, learn, and use targeted grammar structures on their own. Results suggest they can learn certain kinds of linguistic structures anonymously, but others…

The current state of information retrieval (IR) evaluation is reviewed with criticisms directed at the available test collections and the research and evaluation methodologies used, including precision and recall rates for online searches and laboratory tests not including real users. Automatic text retrieval systems are also discussed. (32…

Various methods for calculating and presenting results of information retrieval (IR) evaluation research are discussed, with illustrations from recent laboratory results. Highlights include measures for calculating recall and precision, user needs for high or low level of recall, and comparisons of Boolean and ranked output retrieval. (22…

Discussion of cultural barriers in information systems focuses on results of a study at a large private research organization in Austria that was conducted to identify major problem areas and to develop a framework for identifying and evaluating possible solutions. User, technical, and cost factors for evaluating options are considered. (30…

British researchers surveyed secondary schools to examine how they handled alcohol education, noting the use of personal and social education strategies and examining which commercial resources were the most popular. The article discusses the range of responses and suggests areas to address in curriculum planning. (SM)

Four elementary teachers present earth-friendly ideas to help students explore nature: creating suncatchers out of pressable outdoor items; making and filling nature explorer kits; producing ecology booklets with covers; filling shoeboxes with natural materials to make rhythm instruments; and making crayon rubbings of outdoor items. (SM)

Three frameworks for work attitudes instruction in trade and industrial education are (1) historical--democratic and indoctrinational approaches; (2) social psychological--group discussion, problem solving, role playing, reward, role modeling; and (3) industrial sociological. Compatibility between attitudes taught and organizational structure of…

Notes that adolescents with alcohol or drug problems may be referred to school psychologists for assessment and may demonstrate symptoms similar to learning disabilities or emotional disturbance. Discusses prereferral questionnaires, initial interviews, behavioral observations, and assessment devices to help psychologists determine probability…

Describes a technical writing assignment in which students learn to consider the needs of an audience through writing query letters. Discusses researching the magazine, comparing competitors, editors' responses, and the advantages results of the assignment. (PRA)

This report describes the use of peer sampling procedures to develop individualized plans to familiarize an incoming visually impaired person to a university campus and community. Environmental specificity of the procedure is illustrated by application to two residences. (Author/DB)

A multifaceted method (involving verbal and hands-on training) was used to teach aerobic exercises to 3 totally blind women (ages 24-37). All three women demonstrated positive gains in their performance, physical fitness, and attitudes toward participating in future mainstream aerobic exercise classes. (DB)

The need for additional evaluation of university research support offices is supported through a review of the literature and an informal survey of these offices in public universities and doctorate-granting colleges. Regular, periodic evaluations are recommended. The suggested model combines internal, collegial, and peer evaluation for balanced,…

Describes the North Central Association's 1965 decision to require member schools to undertake a self-study followed by a team visitation every seven years. Offers background for the decision, a description of the decision process, and information on subsequent decisions. (DMM)