Economists use nonrandom sampling and self-selectivity models to analyze a variety of issues. Individuals are not homogeneous and self-select into those alternatives where they have a comparative advantage. Examples where self-selection models have been applied include analyzing schooling, labor supply, and career choices. A student's…

In recent research, female adolescents have been found to prefer history, language, and writing courses, while male adolescents have been found to prefer mathematics and science courses. These gender differences in course selection occurred despite the fact that female and male adolescents performed equally well in these courses. This study…

Describes a study that examined the effects of various computer reinforcement responses, including graphics and/or sound, on students' attentiveness to the program. Implications for educational software design are discussed. (CLB)

The purpose of this study was to determine if extracurricular activity participants in the Anchorage (Alaska) School District were dropping out of school at a greater rate as a result of having to meet a "C" average grade requirement for participation. Subjects of the study were all students in grades 9 through 12 who participated in…

A correlational study of 62 8th grade, 60 11th grade, and 58 college students investigated developmental differences in learning goals, study strategy beliefs and their inter-relationship for science classes. Questionnaires measured levels of task orientation, ego orientation, and work avoidance, as well as belief in the utility of two types of…

Reports on a study of 160 Nigerian secondary students to determine the influence of achievement motivation and gender on performance in English language learning. Finds that, if adequately motivated, the students are capable of mastering English. Attributes the lack of gender differences to social change in Nigeria. (CFR)

Asserts that research indicates that parents have a strong influence on the development of their children's achievement motivation. Reports a study of 180 Bophuthatswana adolescents to determine the effects of living in a boarding school or with family. Finds significantly higher achievement motivation scores for the adolescents living with…

This report summarizes the design, sample, measures, and results of a study of the attitudes and activities of middle-school students in Montgomery County Public Schools (Maryland). The study, longitudinally designed, examined three groups of schools--four middle schools, two grades 7-8 junior high schools, and four grades 7-9 junior high schools.…

Reports on a study of 226 high school students to examine the effects of competitive and noncompetitive performance goals on their ratings of band performances. Finds that secondary students approach competitive and noncompetitive music performance goals differently. (CFR)

Tests theoretical perspectives about the effects of employment during high school. Supports a zero-sum model which suggests that working during high school subverts traditional academic goals. Finds no support for the developmental model which claims that employment during school builds character. Acknowledges that working to save money for…

Approximately 4000 students participated in a study to determine relationships between attitudes toward science, achievement motivation, and demographic variables over the school year and across grades (6-10) by sex. Positive attitudes and motivation declined steadily across the grades with significant sex differences (males having more positive…

Examines the effects of social class in the political socialization of education in relation to participation in collective action. Analyzes data from a national survey of high school students. Concludes that political efficacy, student organizational leadership, college preparatory study, and urban school attendance increase the likelihood of…

Data gathered from large-scale assessments in the Ontario Assessment Instrument Pool (OAIP) are examined. Implications for science instruction are to be found at the item level; the items should not involve more than two or three steps if the responses are to be informative. Items are collected and linked to provincial curriculum guidelines. These…

Studies the role of cultural capital in the relationship between social background inequalities and educational attainment, using data from a national sample of Greek high school seniors. Finds that, although reproduction of the social hierarchy occurs through schooling, student ability and effort are the major mechanisms underlying educational…

Maintains that cheating is a major concern on college campuses. Presents data from 2,153 upper-division undergraduate students on the frequency of cheating, reasons for cheating, and influence of penalties on cheating. Offers a model that develops an internalized code of ethics to counteract academic dishonesty. (CFR)