The participatory method of image production holds enormous potential for communication and journalism scholars operating out of a critical/cultural framework. The methodological potentials of mechanical reproduction were evident in the 1930s, when Walter Benjamin contributed three enduring concepts: questioning the art/document dichotomy; placing…

The aim of this book is to provide a source for teachers and other professionals working with children and adults with learning difficulties and disabilities that will enable them to: (1) access selected recent and relevant research in the field of learning difficulties, drawn from a range of disciplines and groups of people; (2) reflect on…

The text of three papers are presented. The first, by Alma Ada Flor, focuses on the question "What is participatory research?" It is suggested that participatory research enriches the knowledge of participants and opens up new topics to them. The nature and theory fundmental to participatory research and the relation of participatory research to…

Proposes a methodology for the naturalistic investigation of classroom environments in primary schools. Maintains that this approach is derived from a critique of the work of classroom ecologist Walter Doyle. Proposes suggestions for empirical research methods for naturalistic investigation. (CFR)

The initial report of the National Research to Development Network for Public School Programs for the Hearing Impaired provides a review of objectives and process in educational research, a description of the network, and descriptions of three completed or ongoing projects. A brief history of educational research and development precedes a…

Compares participatory research and alternative activist approaches, based on the literature on participatory research and interviews with nine sociologists who use alternative approaches. Concludes that all types of activist research are more effective in challenging inequality if they involve activist community organizations. (CFR)

Examines the complexities of doing collaborative action research by presenting examples of research efforts on a continuum. Describes the progress from university domination of research to practitioner-directed action research conducted by teachers. Includes a figure illustrating a continuum of approaches to collaborative research. (CFR)

Asserts that the technique of "Stories at Work," or fictional-critical writing, is an emerging discipline within professional development and educational research. Discusses ways in which the technique can be used to enhance self-concept and improve teacher effectiveness. (CFR)

The document describes the Changes Project, a participatory action research project conducted by adult learners at five adult literacy and education programs in Western Massachusetts. It is a 3-year project aimed at examining the impact of welfare reform, immigration reform, and the changing workplace on adult learners. The Changes Project is…

This article describes action-oriented teacher research in which teachers use information students reveal about the competent aspects of their lives as learners to direct their teaching efforts. The article notes methodological considerations of this approach and applications to the study of special education. (Author/DB)

The focus of the adult education field is shifting to adult learning. Current trends are the continued development of the concepts of andragogy and self-directed learning, increased emphasis on learning how to learn, and real-life learning. Cognitive psychology is influencing work in adult learning. The concept of intelligence as it relates to…

This book is intended for fieldworkers or researchers and indigenous communities who are planning collaborative projects or research. Narratives of educational projects in Alaska Native and New Zealand Maori communities illustrate the ways that collaborative projects were developed in indigenous communities in the late 20th century. To illuminate…

Outlines the implementation of a collaborative project between a college visual arts program and an academic staff development unit. Asserts that the project was conducted according to a model of clinical supervision specifically modified to suit a studio environment. Includes sample student opinions about the project. (CFR)

Presents a case study involving two teaching certification students. Examines how a social studies methods course and a one-year elementary school postbaccalaureate teacher education program influenced students' educational beliefs and practices. Finds influences are partial, differential, and interactive with students' backgrounds and…

Maintains that most of the questions that have concerned arts educators have remained basically the same. Contends that issues of cultural pluralism have been added to these questions. Presents and discusses issues of art and music education in New York City and the role of action research. (CFR)