A recent investigation of primary teachers' epistemological beliefs concerning the teaching and learning of mathematics discovered that teachers' beliefs cannot be said to form neat world views. Teachers' hybrid world views often included epistemological beliefs that supported teaching approaches which evidence suggests leads to greater conceptual…

Contends that school size is an increasingly important factor in discussions concerning school effectiveness. Clarifies the current usage of the term "small secondary school" so that research can be conducted. Concludes that curriculum reform requirements will have an impact on determining effectiveness of education in small secondary…

Presents results of a curriculum innovation in a British inner-city school. Reports a revival of motivation and a successful educational experience for a group of students who had been expected to fail. Describes a program in which all students could participate in helping anyone they felt needed help. Discusses work experience, community service,…

Reports on a study of children's literature selected for primary grades in British schools. Finds that the books fall into two categories: word books and picture books. Recommends that authors, illustrators, and selectors of books should consider how to develop books that help students progress smoothly from one group to another. (CFR)

Contends that criticism of progressive pedagogical methods may be creating an ideologically neutral orthodoxy of primary school practice in Great Britain. Expresses caution about this development by defending principles underlying progressive education. Argues for the development of child-centered teaching methods within the National Curriculum.…

Reviews and interprets evidence that demonstrates underachievement in working class children. Argues that any success with improving effectiveness of these students is determined by classroom teachers. Concludes that continuous efforts must be made to reduce the gap between everyday experience and classroom experience. (CFR)

Reports a survey of British middle-school teachers that supports recent British studies on teacher attitudes acknowledging the importance of poetry instruction and attributing reluctance to teach poetry to teacher lack of confidence and knowledge. Recommends promoting middle-school students' untapped interest in poetry through changes in the…

Discusses tensions and dilemmas that arise in the implementation of Vygotskian psychology. Analyzes the development of special educational needs and practice in the former Soviet Union and compares this with similar changes in England and Wales. Uses interviews in Russian schools and Moscow State University to illustrate the analysis. (CFR)

Maintains the Holocaust is part of the national history curriculum for all 11-14 year olds in England and Wales. Examines ethical and pedagogical issues involved in teaching the subject, concern about promoting antisemitism, freedom of speech, and the right of parents to withdraw their children from this part of the curriculum. (CFR)

Interviews 50 primary school head teachers, 304 primary teachers, and 223 secondary department heads in England and Wales to evaluate the National Curriculum's impact. Reveals primary personnel's concern for increased assessment and recordkeeping and secondary heads' concern over language and science instruction. Discovers anxiety over curricular…