One of 52 theoretical papers on school crime and its relation to poverty, this chapter examines the historical validity of two popular beliefs concerning the "crisis of discipline" in schools. One is that it is something special to this turbulent age, and the other is that school violence and crime have increased because we have relaxed our…

Examines the distinctions between protected free speech and discriminatory verbal harassment on college campuses. Cites numerous campus policies and recent Supreme Court decisions. Discusses a proposed guideline based on the direct use of "fighting words" to insult or stigmatize an individual. (FMW)

A discussion of the prevalence of academic cheating in higher education looks at research on the problem and at possible remedies. Difficulties for faculty in enforcing discipline policies are noted. Approaches to creating a culture encouraging integrity include vocal administrative support for ethics, an academic integrity code, classroom…

Research on educational standards and school discipline shows that curriculum reform may also improve discipline by engaging students in a challenging environment. The widespread decline in high school standards seems to have come from diluting both the high school and college liberal arts curricula of the past, with students abandoning careers in…

A study of institutional responses to incidents of intolerance on college and university campuses was conducted. A questionnaire was sent to the deans of student affairs and student newspaper editors at 128 four-year colleges and universities; and interviews were conducted with administrators, students, faculty, and staff from 58 institutions, 11…

Explores some of the ways that sexuality is an issue in the course of teaching. Includes discussions of crushes between students and staff, consensual personal relationships between staff and students, and sexual harassment. Discusses creating an atmosphere that enables lesbian, gay and bisexual students and staff to "come out." (MJP)

Reviews one teacher's experiences teaching sexuality issues within the context of a second-year social and cultural geography course. Considers the complex issues that surround teaching about sexuality and "coming out" as a homosexual teacher or tutor. Includes a brief description of materials useful for teaching sexual geographies. (MJP)

The historical background, principles, and practices of two major theories concerning student behavior are described. Theory A is religiously based and can be traced back to the biblical "Garden of Eden." It views human nature as fundamentally evil, the school as a means of both controlling and overcoming the child's innate propensities to…

Utilizing a consensus decision-making strategy, teachers and an administrator from Parkway Central Middle School (PCMS) (Missouri) selected a two-part mission: (1) to establish an atmosphere where students demonstrate respect for themselves, their peers, and all adults; and (2) to evaluate, revise, develop, and implement a new discipline plan that…

This volume provides recent research findings on important topics related to the still-expanding middle school movement. They are divided into seven parts, addressing teaching/learning, curriculum, teacher education, social context, organization, leaderships, and issues and future directions. Following an introduction to middle level education…