Compares a family relations class composed of dating couples with a similar family relations class composed on noncouples, with regard to their learning course material and their attitude toward the class. Results indicate that the couples group demonstrated better knowledge of course materials. (Author)

Finds substantial agreement between teachers and students on the range of overall factors affecting motivation; the sharp division between motivation as a personally-owned state and demotivation as a teacher-owned problem reported by students was not apparent across the teachers' perceptions; and differences among teachers in perceptions of their…

This study compared the motivation and quality of experience of demographically matched students from Montessori and traditional middle school programs. Approximately 290 students responded to the Experience Sampling Method (ESM) and filled out questionnaires. Multivariate analyses showed that the Montessori students reported greater affect,…

This study investigates the initial motivation of learners of Arabic as a foreign language (AFL). One hundred and twenty students enrolled in first-year and second-year AFL classes participated in this study. The participants were classified into two major groups of learners according to their heritage background: The first group consisted of…

A discussion of factors associated with evaluation of proposed alternative educational systems is presented in brief form. Emphasis is given to enumeration of critical characteristics serving as the basis of comparison, examination of alternative systems in terms of each characteristic, and determination based on the comparison as to whether the…

The components of motivation in foreign language (FL) learning are examined as well as the effect of those components on certain language learning behaviors. Two basic assumptions are derived from the results of the study. These include the following: (1) Motivation in FL learning contexts (e.g., learning English in Hungary) is different in some…

This study surveys recent literature on education in Japan to determine what elements of the Japanese educational system could be incorporated into America's pedagogical system. There are four sections with the following titles: (1) What comparisons are being made between Japanese and American students in achievement and IQ tests scores? (2) How…

Two different uses of computers in instruction are Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) and Computer Managed Instruction (CMI). CMI is primarily concerned with data management in the instructional process, and CAI is the use of computers to control the instructional process itself. The uses of computers in instruction can be described in four main…

The use of electric typewriters for beginning reading instruction was investigated. Thirty-six freshmen and sophomore education majors worked for 10 weeks with nine pairs of L-level (first-grade) children from the Wisconsin University laboratory school on SRA materials, Dolch phrases, and creative writing. Half used typewriters and the rest,…

Assessed undergraduate and graduate students' level of curiosity and intrinsic motivation. Few differences were found among the undergraduates, but they differed noticeably from the graduates in their motivational patterns. Differences are discussed in terms of motivational determinants. (Author)

Secondary school teachers participating (n=371) and not participating (n=422) in continuing education in Hong Kong were surveyed. Such variables as situations, dispositions, attitudes, beliefs, and social norms did not distinguish participants from nonparticipants. The only significant factors were socioeconomic status and motivations. (SK)

In many countries around the world there is a current focus on the restructuring of education systems in a bid to increase the "quality" of the educational experience for pupils in order to raise their academic achievement. However, the definition of quality as expressed through policy may not always accord with the aims and aspirations…

Although drama has been used successfully in English as a second language and has been shown to have positive effects on achievement and on self-confidence and motivation in various studies, it has received little attention in French immersion context where subjects are taught in French, the second language of students. The objective of this study…

The paper's proposition is that many "overtly behavioristic" innovations in teacher education (performance-based education, microteaching, microsupervision, and microcounseling) are not in conflict with the humanistic approach; the critical need for understanding and application of the construct of intentionality demands that humanists…

Reviews research that demonstrates parallels between general linguistic and cognitive processes in human language acquisition and avian acquisition of song and discusses how such research may provide new insights into the processes of second-language acquisition. (Author/CB)