Based on a synopsis of research studies, the relationship of second language learning to affective factors, such as language shock, attitude motivation, ego permeability, etc., is examined. Also, it is suggested that affective variables may be more important than maturation in the problems of adults in learning a second language. (MS)

Examines the role of computers in investigating teaching and learning processes and concludes that computer based experiments can be effective if they meet the same requirements that must be met by direct instruction techniques. (Author/DB)

This presentation, addressed to the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Teachers' Seminar, traces developments in thinking about continuing education for pharmacists and states that the goal of continuing education is to produce life-long, self-directed learners with learning aimed at resolving practice-related problems. (JMD)

Fourth-grade control students were given a multiple-choice problem involving conservation of weight. Experimental group subjects were given a fictitious choice response distribution with conflicting reasons. Curiosity for confirmation, progress in generalizing the principle of conservation, and positive correlation between curiosity and progress…

Proposes that the state of enjoyment occurs when a person is challenged at a level matched to his level of skills. Disruption of classes, vandalism, and violence in schools are, in part, attempts by adolescents to obtain enjoyment in otherwise lifeless schools. (Author)

In tests third graders accepted the idea of equal occupational opportunity, but eighth graders from low socioeconomic backgrounds were more pessimistic about their chance of achieving advanced education and a good job. (Ed.)

Explores various aspects of the functional-notional textbook or syllabus. This is a concept originating with the Council of Europe that involves the organization of a textbook or syllabus according to the notions or functions that a learner hopes to be able to express. (RM)

Reported are some research findings that have stimulated interest in non-competitive learning, and a classroom experience in which concepts of non-competitive learning were implemented and tested. The evidence indicates that competitiveness tends to hamper the learning process, while a non-competitive situation reduces anxiety and increases…

People may perceive little opportunity for personal participation in international affairs due to their early socialization. Based on the assumption that people will participate if they can see international links in their activities in the local community, experiments with participatory learning in foreign policymaking were undertaken in…

Discusses an experiment to measure the extent to which computer exercises reinforce student learning in an experimental interdisciplinary course at Dartmouth College. Findings indicated that computer techniques improved test performance. Journal available from Division of Educational Affairs, American Political Science Association, 1527 New…

Reviews problems associated with the science education of less able and low motivated students. (SL)

The early development of the Academic Motivations Inventory, a self-report measure of the academic motivations of college students, is described. Validation and reliability studies suggest that, at present, the instrument could be used to assess motivation of a group or class of students, but not yet as individuals. (Author/JKS)

A study of students' attitudes at the Kassel People's University, most of whom were housewives, revealed that the prime motivation was planned vacations and the ability to communicate. Understanding of foreign countries, their culture and politics was not sought by most. (Text is in German.) (IFS/WGA)

Points out that the realistic concern for and knowledge of rural students in their own particular contexts help to motivate students in a composition classroom. (MB)

Reviews research that demonstrates parallels between general linguistic and cognitive processes in human language acquisition and avian acquisition of song and discusses how such research may provide new insights into the processes of second-language acquisition. (Author/CB)