This paper focuses on effective transition-to-school programs. Using a framework of 10 guidelines developed through the Starting School Research Project, the paper provides examples of effective strategies and transition programs. In this context, the nature of some current transition programs is questioned, and the curriculum of transition is…

Identifies a barrier hindering the learning and interaction of East Asian students studying in Australia, identified during teacher research: the fear of intimidation, embarrassment, or "loss of face." Addresses methods and issues involved in overcoming this barrier. (EV)

This paper examines the stereotypical view that Asian students cannot think critically. Although critical thinking is often presented as a generic skill, crucial to success at university, definitions of the concept vary widely. Critical thinking can therefore only be understood by placing it into the context in which it is used. This disadvantages…

"Every Child" is Australia's premier early childhood publication, aimed at anyone involved in the care and education of children from birth to eight years-in particular child care professionals, teachers, child care students and the parents of young children. Published quarterly, it contains informative and entertaining articles on such…

During 1998 and 1999, the Starting School Project at the University of Western Sydney-Macarthur conducted a survey across New South Wales (Australia) of parent and teacher opinions about children's successful transition to school. Survey responses were received from 240 teachers and 243 parents of young children. Respondents were grouped according…

This study investigates the nature of the stresses on immigrant schoolchildren and the degree and type of maladjustments which become evident. Also considered is the relationship between ease of adjustment for the three national groups under study and their facility with the English language. (Author/EB)

Problems associated with the transition from secondary schooling to higher education are assuming increasing significance as demand for places slackens. Student entry characteristics and adjustment difficulties are discussed in relation to choice of course and institution. Possible methods for dealing with transition problems are discussed.…

A program in the School of Education at Queensland University of Technology (Australia), designed to improve the experience of graduate students in a research-based master's program, is described. Strategies for overcoming problems of student isolation and building a sense of belonging are highlighted. It is argued that graduate students need…

The Delphi technique was used with 408 undergraduate international students and 121 faculty at an Australian university to identify problems. Difficulty understanding colloquial language, tuition cost, and feelings of isolation ranked highest among the problems cited by the students. Staff were critical of their own lecturing speed and of…

Child care in New Zealand and Australia has become a crucial part of the child-rearing system, and most preschool children spend a prolonged period in at least one away-from-home environment for a substantial part of the day. Because so many preschool children are exposed to a child care environment before entering school, the transition from…

This volume reports on a seminar structured around three themes: institutional policies toward the flow of foreign students in member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD); specific measures and programs for foreign students; and social and cultural adjustment by foreign students. The volume contains seminar…

This paper discusses the social and cultural dimensions of the educational experiences of Arab-Australian students. It seeks to explore the cultural attitudes and the social experiences of Arab-Australian secondary school students from two schools situated in Melbourne's northern region. The paper seeks to examine how Arab-Australian students and…

The common perception on the part of higher education institutions, academic staff, and scholarship donors, that English language skill level is the cause of the academic difficulties (problems in adjustment, longer completion times required) of international graduate students is examined, drawing on experience at the Australian National…

Information is presented on attitudes of students enrolling for the first time at the University of New South Wales in 1975. Attitudes toward higher education, anticipated difficulties in making the transition from high school to university, and ideas about the likely demands and rewards of advanced study were surveyed, using a forced-choice…

Draws on findings from case studies and interviews with children, parents, and early childhood educators to highlight several issues relevant to children's transition to school within the context of Australia's Starting School Research Project. Illustrates the cultural diversity of school children and the initiatives that respond to particular…