This paper distinguishes the key dimensions of professional value in teaching under three headings: (i) deontic norms; (ii) aretaic norms; and (iii) technical norms. With regard to (i) it is held that aspects of the professional conduct of teachers are properly (though not exclusively) implicated in the observance of moral principles and…

This article discusses the non-academic, social-emotional factors that contribute to student academic achievement, including the cognitive-behavioral characteristics of underachieving students and those with learning disabilities; the "You Can Do It! Education" (YCDI) theory of achievement; derivative research on social-emotional capabilities,…

What causes stress in gifted youth and what specific skills do they need to manage it? Although stress is a real presence in all people's lives, it can be more intense for the gifted because they are usually more sensitive, introspective, and emotional. Growing up gifted is a qualitatively different experience, which can manifest itself in the…

Some principals have personalities that can drive teachers around the bend and back again. Sure, most are wonderful bosses who support teachers in any way, but woe betide teachers if they are unlucky enough to run across one of the six dreaded "problem principals" identified in this article. Teachers do not have to be held hostage by difficult…

Teaching, to a large degree, depends on more than just technical skills. The demands of classroom teaching require interpersonal skills and dispositions that are often ignored when determining a preservice teacher's fitness to teach. This article provides an example of how one university addresses the challenge of evaluating students' skills and…

This article shares findings from a research study on 14 gifted dropouts. The first author designed the study after she came in contact with four gifted young men who chose to leave school rather than put up with what they described as low-level curriculum and a culture that disrespected them. The intent of the study was to explore why gifted…

Analysis of the psychological traits and childhood environments of foremost essayists, historians, and critics (N=42) suggested that, while intelligence was a component of eminence, environmental influences were substantial. Familial, school, and social conditions provided indispensable support during the childhoods of the future essayists.…

Provides a teaching technique for improving instruction through awareness of the personality of the learner. (MD)

Responds to a parent question regarding two children's differing temperaments. Provides information on temperament traits, focusing on approach-withdrawal, adaptability, distractibility, mood, and the role of stress. Discusses the importance of parents recognizing their own temperament as well as their child's and offers suggestions for addressing…

Indecisive students often present with social skills problems, which may make academic and vocational decision-making tasks difficult and complex for them. This article presents a training program devised to augment assertive competencies in indecisive students choosing a university course of study. Intended aims and the analyses to assess the…

This article describes three archetypal workers: eagles who innovate by improvements, otters who innovate by extension, and unicorns who innovate by paradigm. Each of these innovators is discussed in terms of domain-relevant skills, manipulative skills, and motivation. Needs of each type in terms of business culture are discussed. (PB)

Describes DISCLOSURE, a personality assessment game that was developed as an alternative to traditional personality testing methods in career planning groups. Pilot trials of the game with 150 college students are described, and samples of student reactions to the experience are included. (16 references) (LRW)

Introduces this special issue on how educators in various countries facilitate creative thinking in their students. Notes that some of the articles contain information or examples demonstrating originality, flexibility, or important personality traits that contribute to creativity, such as risk-taking, and that others address the need for…

Stresses the importance of character-building activities for children and how school counselors can promote such activities. Describes a comprehensive character education program in one school in which different mediums are used to emphasize a certain character trait each month. Discusses elements of the program and program effectiveness. (RJM)

Following sample question and answer dialogues, this article provides suggestions on how to deal with a child who never stops complaining. The author investigates the impetus behind children who seem to make whining a habit, by asking several children why they do it. The dialogues demonstrate: (1) that young children may not know the meaning of…