This paper argues that issues of peace and war and related environmental and social questions ought to form part of the curriculum of a truly democratic education system. The aim of these studies is not to indoctrinate young people into predetermined positions with respect to controversial questions, but, quite the opposite, to help them develop…

Discusses the teaching of evolution in New Zealand during the first half of the twentieth century. Reports that evolution instruction began formally in the 1920s but was withdrawn 30 years later amid protests. Observes that the teaching of evolution predated the 1920s in muted form. Describes the roles of broadcasting and religion in the dispute.…

This paper reports that the story of peace education in New Zealand has been one of extremes. While there has been some interest in the subject for decades, it was only in the 1980s that there was any serious activity and widespread debate. In 1984, the conservative National government, which had ruled the country for 9 years, was replaced by a…

Explains the new format of the University Entrance and Bursary Examinations for New Zealand. Points out that open-ended questions based on field work carry the same weight as those questions referred to as internal assessment. Concludes that these types of questions allow the teacher to cover a greater range of topics. (GG)

Reviews the history, characteristics, and impact of the New Social Studies movement in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. Describes the educational goals, teaching methods, and instructional materials commonly used in the New Zealand social studies curriculum. (CFR)

The first (exploratory) phase of the Learning in Science Project focused on science teaching/learning in the Form 1 to 4 level (ages 10 to 14) and sought to identify problems and difficulties in several areas. Provided in this paper are comments obtained during structured/unstructured interviews (from teachers, headmasters, science advisers, and…

In our early childhood teacher education program the young child is positioned as a competent and resourceful participant in his/her own learning. Reflection on this image led me to recognise that some aspects of tertiary institutions mean students themselves can be positioned as less empowered learners. As a result of this recognition, new…

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)

The first (exploratory) phase of the Learning in Science Project focused on science teaching/learning in the Form 1 to 4 level (ages 10 to 14) and sought to identify problems and difficulties in several areas. Provided in this paper are comments obtained during structured/unstructured interviews (from students, ex-students, teachers, headmasters,…