A theoretical model for predicting medical student achievement (HE 528 467) is reviewed and found to be a significant improvement over previous predictive studies, to well illustrate the use of structural equation modeling in medical education research, and to offer an approach to practical research problems with potential to increase the…

Submits that interinstitutional research in mass communication exhibits complex, interrelated problems regarding tactics, sampling, data reliability, and causality. Confronts difficulties and suggests ways to deal with them. Draws on storytelling and cognitive aesthetics to broaden the criteria for judging research. Encourages ambitious…

Reports the results of an observational study concerning mathematical word problems to provide direction for others contemplating analyses of student difficulties from a theory base. Finds that most students experience difficulties in applying past experience, knowledge, and the language of mathematics to form internal world models. (PRA)

Discusses the importance of education research for practitioners and presents a theory-practice research model. Research reports and developments in information technology are described, including (1) ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) services; (2) school library media research reports; (3) articles on online searching in schools;…

Underlines the importance of principals' role as democratic leader, introduces a school-improvement theory, and shows how principals can apply it. The theory's basic building-blocks are school structure and restructuring; school culture and leadership; higher order thinking, critical thinking, or problem solving; economic competitiveness; and…

Discussion of the changing role of school librarians focuses on the instructional consultant role, defined as resource-based instruction with cooperative/collaborative planning between the library media specialist and the classroom teacher. Studies of DeKalb County (Georgia) media specialists are discussed that investigated theory versus practice…

This article provides a critical review of the literature on mentoring. It emphasizes the links between mentoring and undergraduate academic success and focuses on higher education and the extension of mentoring into undergraduate education. Issues of definition and the different perspectives that could be used in future research are explored.…

Contends that recent advances in theory and research on academic self-concept have important implications for practice of school psychology. Reviews research on most commonly posited structural models of self-concept, and pervasive frame of reference effects that link individual academic self-concepts to larger social context. Discusses…

Reviews research on influence of child's family context on development of conduct problems. Addresses what critical aspects of child's family context (parental psychological adjustment, parental marital adjustment, parental socialization practices) seem related to development of conduct problems and how these factors might affect child. Discusses…

Considers approaches to assessing writing disabilities that use theory-based process measures to explain discrepancies between intelligence quotient (IQ) and achievement; may define learning disabilities independent of IQ; and employ branching diagnosis based on selected tests rather than all tests in standard battery. Outlines model for using…

Reports survey results of a random sample of Brisbane North Region, Australia, elementary school teachers (n=300) concerning teacher practices, attitudes, professional preparation, and concerns regarding environmental education. Concludes that environmental education is implemented in classroom programs but that values, ethics, problem solving and…

Describes the Practical Engagement Program (PEP) at the University of Michigan School of Information, an integral part of the professional master's program with the goal of providing mentored experience to help students integrate the application of classroom-taught theories, principles, and skills to specific problem outside of the classroom.…

Dichotomizes academic research and educational policymaking as distinct and often conflicting cultures. Examines legislative support of higher education as an illustration of the research-policy disconnection. Summarizes recent criticisms of higher education research. Discusses differing "mind frames" of researchers and policymakers,…

Democratically oriented school leaders are challenged to establish shared missions, work as change agents, collaborate with colleagues, consider all constituents, and perceive and elucidate theory-practice connections. This article explains the Institute for Educational Inquiry Leadership Program's plan for developing these five critical…

A relationship exists between children's interest and investment in their school work and teachers' repertoire of techniques for engaging them. New teachers need to develop varied teaching strategies and be provided with an interconnected support system, innovative preparation programs, mentoring opportunities, ongoing professional development,…