A study investigated the effects of providing one type of gifted-education pedagogy, enrichment clusters, to the entire population of two urban elementary schools. The teaching practices of classroom teachers who participated as cluster facilitators were positively affected both in the enrichment clusters and in regular classrooms. (Author/CR)

Describes a paraeducator training program that used the World Wide Web (WWW) to provide self-study instruction units that were accessible from local schools. The WWW allowed for increased interaction between paraeducators and instructors, encouraged discussion among trainees, and facilitated communication between the university and local training…

Introduces a causal model which links measures of computer experience, computer-related attitudes, computer-related confidence, and perceived computer-based knowledge. The causal model suggests that computer use has a positive effect on perceived computer self-confidence, as well as on computer-related attitudes. Questionnaires were administered…

Most teachers face the challenge of bringing technology into classrooms with only one computer. This article describes how one computer can serve the needs of many students: connecting it to a TV or projection device to display agendas, Web sites, microscope slides and other scientific instruments, and spreadsheets; tabulate data; deliver…

Research confirms that active learning techniques, like case studies, increase student participation and learning. This article provides an overview of case study methodology, discusses its appropriateness in library instruction, and presents two case studies used in a library instruction course at Murray State University (Murray, Kentucky).…

Provides a summary of the presentations at the "Epic of Evolution" conference held by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (November 12-14, 1997). Describes the impact of the conference in relation to the work of Montessori and the work of Montessori teachers in scientific pursuits in the classroom. (SD)

Presents strategies for using children's drawing as scaffolding for early writing: (1) paving the way with drawing (talking about drawing, asking the right questions, social context); and (2) getting stories into writing (supporting children just learning what letters look like, with a good mental image of some letters, who can write most letters,…

Discusses reasons for using spreadsheets in science teaching. Presents a list of possible applications together with examples of these from very simple to more complex uses including animation of dynamic systems. Also provides a list of references for materials for beginners and more advanced users. Contains 12 references. (Author/ASK)

Two groups of student teachers, one school-based and one university-based, were introduced to portfolio construction. School-based students received more guidance in and time for portfolio construction. Surveys and interviews indicated that the extra time and guidance helped school-based students, who benefited more from portfolios than…

Describes a comprehensive model of classroom character education in the following components: the teacher as caregiver, model, and mentor; the caring classroom environment; moral discipline; the democratic classroom environment; values instruction through the curriculum; cooperative learning; the conscience of the craft; ethical reflection; and…

Addresses the concept of a learning community and the kind of context that teaching and learning require. Advocates an educational experience in which teacher and students are focused on a great thing and in which students are prompted by fundamental questions. Focuses on the importance of creating space for students. (RJM)

Suggests some operating principles for job candidates for academic appointments. Notes that candidates should receive offers in writing. Lists compensation, perquisites, fringe benefits, and other conditions that candidates should negotiate. (RS)

Reviews and compares the following nine laptop computers, focusing on their capabilities for multimedia presentations: Apple Macintosh PowerBook G3, Chem USA ChemBook 9780, Compaq Armada 7792DMT, Dell Inspiron 3000 mZ66xT, Hewlett-Packard OmniBook 3000CTX, IBM ThinkPad 770, Micro Express NP8233MMX, NEC Versa 6260, and Panasonic CF-63. Evaluation…

Examines research indicating that while homework assigned at the middle school level does improve achievement, homework in the lower grades appears to undermine children's school attitudes and to have little effect on their school performance. Suggests goals and characteristics of useful homework assignments. (HTH)

Emphasizes the importance of utilizing the strengths of children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) in classroom instruction. Suggests many cognitive, ecological, physical, behavioral, social, and educational interventions for the AD/HD child at school and at home. (MKA)