Problem-based learning (PBL) is a pedagogical approach in which students encounter a problem and systematically set about finding ways to understand the problem through dialogue and research. PBL is an active process where students take responsibility for their learning by asking their own questions about the problem and in this paper we explore…

We have investigated the conceptual understandings of seventy-eight 16-year-old Australian high school students' and their knowledge about several issues related to nuclear energy. As a result of their study of the physics topic Nuclear Technology, the students learned more about applications of nuclear technology, had better though still…

Examines how low achieving Australian students fit into the foreign language classroom beyond Year 7, and whether the course content or teaching method should be altered. Reviews the students' reasons for continuing language study, their feelings about certain teaching and learning strategies, exercises and activities, their perceptions of their…

Discusses the need for effective basic language, literacy, numeracy and other communication skills to support all workforce development programs. The general cultural bias towards these programs has marginalized them and is reflected in policy, curriculum and practice. Adjustments are needed in the approaches to the new climate of workplace…

Summarizes the results of an International Bioethics Education Survey conducted in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. Compares knowledge and teaching of 15 selected topics with particular emphasis on the teaching of social, ethical, and environmental issues of in vitro fertilization, prenatal diagnosis, biotechnology, nuclear power, pesticides,…

This report on a master's project begins with a review of the research literature on instructional materials in Australia which emphasizes Australian research and how it compares with a similar body of research published by American scholars. It is noted that the intent of this comparison is to identify where research in Australia can be applied…

Asserts that art history and art criticism have not met the needs and aspirations of female students. Maintains that teaching embroidery can help teach about a history of female oppression. Describes how this approach is used in the classroom. (CFR)

This book is intended for beginning and experienced Technical and Further Education (TAFE) teachers who want to develop new teaching skills or refresh their existing skills. It covers the following topics: the teaching context (colleges, teachers, courses, students, and student motivation); the teaching process (the teacher as a professional, a…

A study explored orientations to the study of statistics of 52 second-year psychology students (for whom statistics was required) and 59 arts students (for whom it was elective) at the University of Sydney (Australia). Students reported their reasons for studying statistics, course expectations, and usual approaches to studying mathematics.…

This paper explores key gender differences in motivation from a quantitative perspective and presents findings from a qualitative study into boys' perceptions of motivating teachers and motivating pedagogy. Data collected from 3773 high school students suggest that girls score significantly higher than boys in their belief in the value of school,…

This report presents the results of a recent survey of teacher preparation courses in Queensland, Australia, an analysis of the literature on course content, and recommendations. Recommendations address course content, the nature of practical training experiences, the need for institutions of higher education to reconceptualize teacher preparation…

This paper explores teaching strategies for communicating complex issues and ideas to a diverse group of students, with different educational and vocational interests, that encourage them to develop critical thinking, and explores pedagogies appropriate to the multidisciplinary field of Aboriginal studies. These issues will be investigated through…

This project was commissioned to investigate ways in which schools can include the cultural activities and symbols of young people--musical interests in particular--in the design and implementation of a music curriculum. The resulting report is divided into three sections. First is a literature review that focuses on the musical interests of youth…

This study investigated the range and types of activities undertaken by Technical and Further Education (TAFE) teachers in Western Australia. Descriptive profiles of TAFE teachers and of what they do in the context of their work are presented. The study also examined a variety of nonteaching and teaching-related responsibilities of the teachers.…

Asserts that the government of Papua New Guinea has developed a successful program of improved primary school teacher education since 1990. Outlines the origins and development of teacher education in that nation from missionary-directed centers in 1960 to a government-supported program of nine preservice centers at present. (CFR)