The aim of this paper is to provide evidence-based guidance for educational practitioners and, in particular, for those in leadership positions in schools, on good practice in developing and implementing school level strategies and actions to promote an appreciation of diversity in schools and society.

This booklet synthesizes principles of motivation that have emerged from research examining the effect of motivational practices on school learning. It addresses achievement motivation, intrinsic motivation, goal orientation, and the effect of teacher practices on the promotion of motivational beliefs, motivation strategies, and willpower. It also…

The concept of cooperative learning, a way to structure the class and instruction so that students work together in small heterogeneous groups to accomplish a common goal, is discussed. Cooperative learning in home economics classrooms, specifically Student Teams Achievement, is examined. (CT)

Since adult students' expectations and classroom experiences for foreign language study may vary greatly, an extra phase of training is recommended to introduce them to the types of activity and study attitudes expected of them. Components for this phase and a sample outline are offered. (Author/MSE)

Suggests freshman performance and school climate may dramatically improve if high school principals capitalize on freshmen enthusiasm by establishing a theme for the school year, developing a friendly orientation day, reevaluating the homeroom, and communicating with parents. (DCS)

A questionnaire was developed to survey 120 students during the "Meet Your College" presentation of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Michigan State University, during "Welcome Week" in the fall of 1984. The data were analyzed to compare freshmen students with transfer students, male students with female…

Argues that high student aspirations are part of a positive school climate and an important component of school effectiveness strategies. Outlines research needed to clarify these relationships and to examine the impact of teacher and staff behavior on student aspirations. (SV)

This 59-item annotated bibliography covers suggested reading material published between 1956 and 1991 to assist college faculty and administrators in promoting first year success for college freshmen. The bibliography is divided into seven sections of resource materials. Section 1 contains suggested readings on both objective research on the…

A model identifying 10 domains of institutional effectiveness for students is tested in relationship to student characteristics. Implications for bringing student expectations in line with institutional performance are examined. (MSE)

Reports on two studies comparing learned resourcefulness among 238 black and white South African college students. Finds that black students score higher on learned resourcefulness in both studies. Discusses possible explanations. (CFR)

A pre- and posttest academic year longitudinal design was used to document the early transition experience of adult women entering or returning to college who differ along motivational dimensions and expectations. In 1981 and 1982, two cohorts of volunteer subjects were recruited from Fordham University's EXCEL program, a special entry program for…

Reports on a study to test the effectiveness of a cognitive motivational model of course selection patterns to explain the continued participation of men and women in college chemistry courses. Results indicated that a person's belief about their ability was the major factor in deciding to continue in chemistry. (Author/TW)

Theories of motivation suggest three approaches to enhancing college student learning: (1) reshaping students' overall achievement orientation; (2) creating the expectation of success; and (3) increasing the value of academic outcomes by helping students develop personal goals and identify means of achieving them. (MSE)

Presents four categories of motivational characteristics for science students: achievement, curiosity, conscientiousness, and sociability. Asserts that most students exhibit one or more of these traits. Discusses changing correlations among characteristics, gender, and grade level. (MJP)

This report provides evidence of a critical link between values and success among youth at risk of failure in school and life. Success-related outcomes include academic success and responsible behavior with respect to drugs and sexual relations. The report examines research evidence linking student attitudes and values to successful outcomes in…