In time-on-task observations, the effects of variations in methodological characteristics on the importance of time-on-task for student achievement were examined. Substantive conclusions were affected by variations in five areas with the greatest differences due to changes in the duration and number of days of observation. (CM)

Discusses the direct instruction pattern, which is based on teacher-centered classroom organization, as a workable teaching style, especially among children of the lower class. Describes teacher behaviors involved in implementing this teaching style, and suggests the use of an observation instrument to monitor direct instruction behaviors.…

Based on data from over 1,000 elementary-secondary classrooms reported in "A Study of Schooling," the author finds little variety in teaching practices across schools. The majority of class time is spent in teachers lecturing to the class or in students working on written assignments. (Author/SK)

Examines elementary school teachers' perceptions of the nature and function of learning activities. Three specific questions were investigated: (1) What do teachers perceive as successful or unsuccessful learning activities? (2) What reasons do teachers give concerning why a learning activity is successful or unsuccessful? and (3) To what extent…

The problem of obtaining reliable descriptions of classroom events is examined. Using sampling theory, the amount of classroom time to be sampled and observed to obtain precise descriptions is analyzed. Results suggest that previous studies of classrooms have used inadequate samples to estimate the behaviors of teachers and students. (JN)

Describes a play observation system and offers guidelines for using a recently developed play observation inventory. Two basic sociodramatic play training procedures are described which teachers can use to enhance the quality of children's play. (Author/RH)

Suggests ways that teachers can collect data from their classrooms and asserts that classroom research that involves a conscious, deliberate attempt to observe, reflect, explain, and evaluate will lead to further insights into instructional practice and changes in that practice. (HOD)

The article defines and describes coping and stress, their relationship to learning, and how they are assessed for educational planning for preschool handicapped children. The Coping Inventory, an observation assessment instrument, is used to show how the teaching and learning of coping behavior can be part of each child's educational plan.…

Emphasizes that consideration of students' reading attitudes is an essential part of reading assessment. Discusses different ways of conceptualizing reading attitudes that teachers might find helpful and makes suggestions on how teachers can actually measure the attitudes of their students. (AEA)

Offers categories, such as management of class time and use of practice and play, which can be used in observing the instructional performance of physical education teachers. A rating form is included. (SJL)