This paper continues the dialogue between David Elkind (2004) and Jamin Carson (2005) on constructivism. The opinions of both writers on this educational theory have been published in recent issues of "The Educational Forum."

Reviews modern and postmodern conceptions of the child and associated educational practices. The modern conception conflated the universal biological child with the individual psychological child. Although this dual conceptualization of child nature was probably necessary to the establishment of free public education, it often hinders effective…

Argues that, at any give time in history, our conceptions and theories of behavioral disorders reflect the basic social and cultural tenets that prevail. It describes how our contemporary conceptions and theories of behavioral disorders mirror the postmodern themes of difference, particularity, and regularity. (Author/CR)

Postmodern social changes, ways these changes have contributed to the assumption of additional child-rearing functions by schools, and the modeling role of Catholic and other religious schools are discussed. Controversies in secular and religious schools arise from the transition from modern to postmodern values, not from parents'/schools' bad…