Argues that the increased interest in self-esteem over the last 20 years has dovetailed with narcissistic elements in society to produce an epidemic of egocentric behavior. Posits the development of moral education as a possible corrective to this. Includes an eight-phase model for accomplishing this. (MJP)

Discusses a study of the role of social studies instruction in promoting sociopolitical mobilization among Nigerian youth. Examines the effects of gender, varied experience, and academic qualifications. Concludes than education is as effective as propaganda in influencing attitudes. (DK)

Asserts that social studies is a natural medium for teaching cross-cultural understanding and making education more meaningful for students from different ethnic, social, or cultural backgrounds. Presents a bibliographical essay including recommended teacher and student resources on issues related to multiculturalism and national unity. (CFR)

Reports on a study of the relationship between moral and political consciousness as evidenced by the ideas and words of 20 middle-school children of average scholastic ability. Finds that the socioeconomic conditions of a community influenced the children's perceptions of issues and problems. (CFR)

Discusses changes in British attitudes toward education from emphasizing social engineering and an equal right to education to a cost-effective approach. Sets out educational goals of independence and the ability to do useful work and to enjoy life by participating in it. Discusses special needs students and the safety net for children from poor…

Provides background information for two Supreme Court decisions that can be used to teach the concepts of due process and student rights. Lists vocabulary and suggests document analysis and student research activities. Includes a copy of the Goss v. Lopez decision and explains how school systems are required to provide students a minimum of due…

This booklet contains texts of importance to all people with writings that have helped shape the U.S. identity. The texts are to serve as a springboard of discussion in a shared inquiry method of discussion of U.S. democracy. The documents in this volume include: (1) "The Declaration of Independence"; (2) "The United States…

The Cleartalk project was developed in New South Wales (Australia) to help police respond to the communication needs of people with intellectual disabilities. Section 1 presents "The View from the Street: A Working Knowledge of Intellectual Disability," which discusses how individuals with intellectual disabilities are denied their right…

Contends that peace history should be taught as a separate course or part of a larger survey course because of the wealth of scholarly materials. Discusses four historical movements that form the main currents of U.S. peace historiography and states that historian Merle Curti was the most influential peace historian. (CFR)

This newsletter describes the 6-year Supporting Diversity in Schools (SDS) project that seeks to create school environments free of racial prejudice and privilege. It briefly describes the program's working themes: (1) giving a voice to people who have traditionally been silent in the shaping of classroom practices; (2) developing pride in…

Twelve priority areas for health education in the 1980s are identified, based on the magnitude and seriousness of the problems addressed; the solidity of the research base; and the likelihood that health education may facilitate improvement in the area. The twelve areas are: (1) cigarette smoking; (2) aging and the aged; (3) mental health; (4)…

Briefly summarizes and comments upon two surveys, one from Edmonton province and the other from a national conference. Both surveys addressed Canadians feeling toward their country and concerns for the future. Preeminent concerns included the economy, national unity, and personal and political ethics. (MJP)

Summarizes some of the attitudes and circumstances contributing to low-voter turnout in the United States. These include apathy, language problems, lack of education, minority disincentives, a mobile population, and the discouraging effect of polls. Notes the impressive correlation between voter registration and voter participation. (MJP)

Contends that conservative critiques of education and proposals for reform are similar in Canada, Great Britain, and the United States. Describes and analyzes New Right criticisms of education and conservative efforts to promote business values and market-based economics. (CFR)

Asserts that interest has increased in social skills training with children and adolescents. Reviews research literature on this topic and concludes that, although social skills training may be a necessary component in bringing about real life changes for children lacking in social competence, it may not always be sufficient. (CFR)