Describes a model, Mediated Learning Experiences (MLE), for understanding specific criteria within adult-child (usually parent-child) interactions that effect flexiblity of mind in young children. An examination of cause-effect relationship between parental behaviors and measures of developmental outcomes are presented, based on two longitudinal…

Speculates about possible future directions for Canadian education and briefly indicates developing conditions that directly challenge the program of the World Organization for Preschool Education. (RH)

Summer learning comes from reading books, singing songs, playing games, listening to stories, taking trips, and all kinds of other fun activities that kids rarely realize are actually good for them. However, this kind of summer learning can be more difficult for children of low-income and other disadvantaged families. Careful analysis of…

This book focuses on understanding knowledge and learning in the contexts of economic development and social cohesion. A preliminary overview is presented of the knowledge processes at work in different sectors, and the book identifies a number of ways in which microlevel or sectoral understanding of the knowledge-based economy is important in…

Free, spontaneous play provides the child with opportunities to practice problem-solving and language use. Nonetheless, results from laboratory observations of children's play indicate that adults and instructional materials can enrich the play of young children. (PP)

Strong leadership in education is mandatory if change is to occur. Issues examined include: (1) the special needs of a modern democratic society; (2) an environmental versus hereditary view of human development; (3) academic achievement and the effect of schooling on children; and (4) methods for effective preparation of teachers. (JN)

Refutes six common misconceptions about Piaget's theories, including their educational implications; Piaget's position on heredity v environment; and the relationships between developmental stages, age, and brain growth spurts. Condensed from "Impact on Instructional Improvement", Winter 1981, p7-11. (SJL)

Presents points relevant to learning skills in the areas of observation and perception. Indicates that a knowledge of the categories into which stimuli may be sorted may provide a framework for perception. The interpretation of perception is based on preciously learned knowledge, intellectual skills and cognitive strategies, and mental set. (GS)

Argues that mutual trust and understanding between teacher and learner are essential to a beneficial learning experience. What students learn depends on their interpretation of the experience, and attempts to control learning result in undesirable side effects. Congruity of external and internal evaluations is a significant consideration…

Explores the relationship between one individual's own English learning and teaching experiences. Employs the self-study method of inquiry in the form of narratives to illuminate how learning experiences influence beliefs and practices in language teaching. (Author/VWL)

A review of research indicates that current beginning reading practices typically emphasize discrete skills that fail to take advantage of young children's emergent literacy abilities. Suggestions for strengthening the match between young children's emergent literacy and instructional experiences are offered. (RH)

Excerpts from students' writing illustrate the differences between Foxfire and other learning approaches and the dilemmas students face in Foxfire classes, including choices, decisions and responsibilities; developing new skills in a new process; participating in the democratic process; effectively working together; and nontraditional evaluations.…

Vignettes concerning the Writers in Electronic Residence program in Canadian high schools demonstrate that, rather than just being a "tool" in the service of production or efficiency, technology can affect the learning experience and the relationships among all members of the learning community, both in the local classroom and via…

Views experiential learning as metaphor development. If a participant's enactment of a personal metaphor leads to an impasse during an adventure activity, this moment of "stuckness" is an opportunity to develop new images that generate new options for action. Facilitators must be sensitive to such situations and assist in widening…

Technology is influencing the evolution of adventure and outdoor education. Technology can negate adventure by dispelling the need of skill and mastery for attainment and by fostering a consumer mentality. Technology can enhance adventure by creating new experiences and suggesting that more is now possible. The challenge is to embody appropriate…