This study focuses on the profile of principals who seem to be able to shape the school culture to best encourage teaching and learning. Data from a representative sample of primary schools (N = 46) were collected through questionnaires for principals and for teachers (N = 700) and semi-structured interviews with the principals. Functioning,…

Contends that criticism of progressive pedagogical methods may be creating an ideologically neutral orthodoxy of primary school practice in Great Britain. Expresses caution about this development by defending principles underlying progressive education. Argues for the development of child-centered teaching methods within the National Curriculum.…

Reviews and interprets evidence that demonstrates underachievement in working class children. Argues that any success with improving effectiveness of these students is determined by classroom teachers. Concludes that continuous efforts must be made to reduce the gap between everyday experience and classroom experience. (CFR)

Maintains that pictures are one constant aspect of children's books. Reviews research on whether pictures hinder or facilitate the development of reading skills in young children. Provides suggestions on when and where pictures might provide instructional support. (CFR)

Argues that the application of competency-based education strategies have served to reduce the educator's role and marginalize teachers' commitment. Criticizes the British approach and describes alternative concepts. Recommends models of professionalism based on "expertise." (CFR)

Contends that, since the mid-1980s, many British schools in predominantly white areas have taken active steps to counter racism and ethnocentrism. Examines the ethical issues of researching such initiatives at the primary school level. Looks at curriculum development work in antiracist and multicultural education in "all white" schools.…

Reports on an interview and mail questionnaire of a group of 65 new private Christian schools in Great Britain. Finds wide diversity among the schools and discusses why the schools were established. Describes the ways that a biblically based curriculum is developed and implemented. (CFR)

Discusses tensions and dilemmas that arise in the implementation of Vygotskian psychology. Analyzes the development of special educational needs and practice in the former Soviet Union and compares this with similar changes in England and Wales. Uses interviews in Russian schools and Moscow State University to illustrate the analysis. (CFR)

Analyzes government's role in promoting computer use in the United Kingdom educational system from 1980 to 1990. Evaluates the Microelectronics Education Programme (MEP) in initiating policy. Concludes MEP's contribution was ultimately positive. Considers problems of top-down innovation, teacher attitudes and training, and hardware and software…

Interviews 50 primary school head teachers, 304 primary teachers, and 223 secondary department heads in England and Wales to evaluate the National Curriculum's impact. Reveals primary personnel's concern for increased assessment and recordkeeping and secondary heads' concern over language and science instruction. Discovers anxiety over curricular…