Reviewed are the various purposes that discussion may serve for science education--for carrying out practical work, for interpreting results, and for understanding social issues. The importance of students contributing their own experiences to a discussion is discussed. (KR)

Principal themes associated with assessment and evaluation as these constructs or concepts have evolved in relation to special education in England and Wales are discussed, concentrating on developments since 1978. Shortcomings of the proposed National Curriculum with regard to special needs students are discussed. (SLD)

The idea of assessment driving the curriculum and the importance of assessing students constantly instead of using only standardized tests are discussed. Informal observations used by teachers as a way of assessing student progress is emphasized. The United Kingdom's National Curriculum assessment program are described. (KR)

Examines the radical shift in educational policies in England and Wales since 1980, and how the shift has affected the curriculum industry. Considers teachers' attempts to influence policy, and the relationship between the curriculum industry and teachers' work in the future. Delineates implications of a national curriculum, an education market,…

Describes a weekend residential trip at a British outdoor education center aimed at assessing primary students for the National Curriculum. Instructors constructed personal profiles based on assessment of math, science, geography, and technology and observation of personal and social skills. Formal assessment was conducted during structured group…

Study examined how British teachers' attitudes and classroom practice were influenced by government-imposed innovations, noting English teachers' responses to the 1993 Standard Assessment Tasks for 14-year-olds. Results noted teachers initially had strong solidarity in their disapproval of the tests, but their reasons for disapproval varied…

Examines language, culture, and the curriculum from a linguistic perspective. Comments on the nature of language and its relation to society. Juxtaposes these ideas with the aims of governments trying to control a culturally diverse population. Claims that the imposition of "proper language" is one way governments silence minority…

Examines research findings concerning information technology's importance and impact in English studies and instruction in the United Kingdom. Emphasizes how English teaching and politics are always closely related to one another. Reaffirms the value and importance of research. (HB)

Presents an overview of educational media (1960s-present) in the Hungarian national core curriculum; describes changes in public education resulting from political changes of the 1990s, including international cooperation, environmental education, and communication culture; and discusses media education in the curriculum and media-domain…

Reports on a study that explores student perspectives on the transfer to A-level chemistry from GCSE chemistry. Explores the attitudes of groups of new A-level chemistry students at a sixth-form college. (DDR)

Explores stereotypes of scientists and the effectiveness of a national curriculum at altering these ideas among primary children. Results confirm the prevalence of a gender-biased stereotype and an unrealistic view of students' work. Contains 20 references. (DDR)

Outlines the policy context of New Zealand early childhood program evaluation and quality. Presents ethnographic research findings on key elements of program quality in relation to New Zealand National Early Childhood Curriculum; findings provide basis for self-evaluation framework through use of Teaching Stories as a focus for reflection and…

The recently revised national curriculum for England and Wales includes changes that emphasize the importance of personal, social, and environmental education; citizenship and learning across the curriculum; and education for sustainable development. Outdoor education can make significant contributions to areas of the curriculum that address…

Describes the National Action Program for information and communication technologies in Swedish classrooms that was developed to help safeguard equivalent standards and quality between schools. Topics include the national curriculum; inservice teacher training; Internet connections; and email. (Author/LRW)

Examines differences in attitudes between boys and girls after 5 years of modern language study through interviews with 75 students, 12 language teachers, and 2 headteachers. The significance of teacher personality and classroom practice emerged clearly from student interviews. Findings are discussed in the context of the British national…