Metacompetence is the ability to plan, execute, monitor, and evaluate one's own learning. Outlines the relationship between metacompetence and cooperative learning, describes the analysis of learning tasks and the use of the SOLO (Structure of the Observed Learning Outcome) taxonomy as a means of evaluating quality of competence. Concludes that…

Presents ideas for motivating students to create an informative and interesting physics project while becoming actively involved in learning the associated physics concepts. Discusses the use of physics projects as an alternative to lecture and traditional tests, using creativity and original ideas, and benefits to the school and the community.…

Describes a project designed to introduce andragogical methods into elementary physiology courses, and to compare student perceptions and learning outcomes with those of a separate section of the same course taught by pedagogical principles. Results indicated that students preferred the combined pedagogical and andragogical approach over the…

A study of "excellent" teachers in four districts found that high school classes with higher achieving students had better instructional support and that teachers deemed excellent were not necessarily practicing state-of-the-art techniques. Correlates of effective teaching were subject-matter confidence, high-quality explanations,…

Describes the design and development of a method for high school physics instruction which actively engages students in understanding the physical world by constructing and using scientific models to describe, explain, predict, and control phenomena. Presents evidence for the effectiveness of the modeling method. Concludes that effectiveness of…

Presents an activity in which students create their own bumper stickers and cartoons to develop environmental awareness among other people. Uses the 5E instructional approach which includes engagement, exploration, explanation, extension, and evaluation. (YDS)

Discusses the need for openness and ownership in mathematics instruction and presents strategies for promoting openness and ownership. Argues that by working to make students partners in the learning process and clearly describing learning targets and expectations, teachers can help students learn more mathematics. (JRH)

In a capstone course, graduate students from two universities participated in collaborative design in the architectural, engineering, and construction industries in multidisciplinary teams via the Internet. Students also developed process designs to integrate technology into multidisciplinary teamwork, combining active and reflective learning.…

Discusses the value and ethical dilemmas of incorporating community-based workshops into the university education of young artists. Outlines author's experience in the evolution of an arts program. Advocates for a broader conception of art that encompasses individual and communal expression. (PM)

Examined the effects of professional development on teachers' instruction using a purposeful sample of about 207 teachers across 5 states for 1996-1999. Professional development focused on specific instructional practices increased teachers' use of those practices in the classroom, and specific features, such as active learning opportunities,…

As counselor educators attempt to stay current with technology in the information age, they must maintain pedagogical principles of counselor education. These principles can be promoted through technology. Practical technological applications are described and student responses to technology enhanced courses, potential pitfalls of technological…

Describes a botany course using active learning and the scientific method in which students learn how to use classification keys and study angiosperm taxonomy. (Contains 14 references.) (YDS)

Describes how "speedwriting" requires that all learners become actively engaged in their own learning because, rather than generating ideas orally, students are instructed to write down all their ideas as quickly as they can. Considers how the social engagement of discussion and the sharing of ideas during the writing phase drew even the…

Suggests that active learning can benefit students in public relations and integrated communication courses at the graduate level. Describes how three active learning approaches--research and field work, student accountabilities for learning, and student reflection and reflexive exercises--were used in a graduate class project to help a Fortune 50…

Explains how the theater arts require a blend of contemplation and creativity that embodies the heart of real education. Demonstrates that for an actor and a director to produce a scene they must read and understand the lines, research the context, and define the character emotionally, intellectually, and physically. (TB)