The disconnect between educational theory and practice is problematic for our field. The purpose of this commentary was to explore how that disconnect is being addressed in current research on teachers' social-emotional characteristics and their relation to student outcomes. Three questions framed the analysis underlying this review: What do we…

Diversity is a defining characteristic of modern society, yet there remains considerable debate over the benefits that it brings. The authors argue that positive psychological and behavioral outcomes will be observed only when social and cultural diversity is experienced in a way that challenges stereotypical expectations and that when this…

Promoting student health and well-being in school has long been a component of education. Traditionally, sports and physical education programs have stressed the importance of staying physically healthy through exercise. More recently, school-based sexual education and nutrition programs have informed young people about the importance of sexual…

This article provides a critical reflective analysis of my life growing up in Jamaica where I attended colonial school, to making the transition to high school in the Canadian context. I examine the elements that have influenced my cultural/racial identity as a person of African ancestry living in the diaspora. I ask questions such as how has…

Considers the adjustments adolescents must make to deviations, especially those related to physical norms. While some deviations are due to the timing of development, others are a result of genetics and are therefore permanent. Suggests guidelines for parents, teachers and counselors to assist adolescents in making adjustments to deviations. (BH)

Crisis is an essential ingredient in the great developmental stages of the natural world and dealing with disruption can result in much that is positive. (Author/JD)

Points out that retirement planning seminars often are designed to impart the economic and pragmatic aspects while neglecting feelings that accompany this and other major life transitions. Indicates that consideration must be given to the social and psychological implications of retirement. (JOW)

The new information environment, created by technology and increasing amounts of and reliance upon information, is raising such issues as freedom and privacy of individuals, the effect of information technology on those who interact with it, and the new social stratification system which seems to be implied. (MBR)

Several controversies surround differentiation between socially maladjusted and seriously emotionally disturbed. Central to controversy is interpretation of social maladjustment as restricted to include socialized aggressive and adjudicated delinquents or broadened to include Conduct Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and antisocial…

Comments on H. Wolcott's argument for the use of the term "propriospect." Asserts that the role of language is essential to understanding the concepts of cultural acquisition and cultural transmission, which are complementary dimensions of the same process. (SLD)

Discusses the Montessori method. Evolves a new vision of the school based on Montessori principles and addresses the anxieties felt during times of transition as part of the natural growth process. Claims that these transitions are cyclical, and affect more than just the children--they also create concern for teachers, parents, and administrators.…

Interviews with six disabled individuals from the Center for Independent Living in Berkeley, California are presented to explore myths and misunderstandings about handicapped persons. The individuals, who are partially sighted, physically disabled, and cerebral palsied, discuss their experiences growing up with a disability, attending school,…

Examines the theoretical bases and historical evolution of two promotional policies--merit and social promotion. Offers suggestions for school districts planning to implement stronger promotional standards. (JOW)

Describes a technique which teachers can use to help students adjust to the problems of growing from childhood to adulthood. The technique consists of a three-stage process of bibliotherapy: identification, catharsis, and insight. (Author/DB)

The authors reply to questions and concerns of five parents of gifted children. Among topics covered are an eight-year-old's problems with mathematics, a child's unrealistic expectations of himself, and a kindergarten child reading on a sixth grade level. (CL)