This report summarizes and discusses findings about classroom management from two studies, the Junior High Management Improvement Study (JMIS) and the earlier Junior High Classroom Organization Study (JHCOS). These two studies involved long-term observation in more than 160 classes in a variety of subject areas. Results of the two studies are…

From observation-based effective schools research, five essential correlates have been identified: (1) purpose; (2) measurement; (3) leadership; (4) expectations; and (5) climate. This paper briefly describes all correlates and then focuses on climate and expectations as applied to improving science instruction. Although climate originally…

Reports a study of the teaching of basic reading skills in secondary schools. Through systematic observations of classrooms, several key variables were identified which related to reading gains measured by the Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills. Several administrative practices important to successful remedial reading programs are also delineated.…

This study analyzed the effectiveness of nursery schools and found that the education of young children can narrow the gap between intellectually disadvantaged and more advantaged children. Organization was found to be the key to effectiveness. (KC)

As part of a larger, longitudinal study, examined how effectively teachers were able to establish an orderly classroom climate, an emphasis on basic skills acquisition, and a pupil monitoring system in 28 Dutch kindergartens. Found wide differences in the ability of teachers to establish these curriculum components. (MDM)

Investigates student's opinions of what they believe is valuable for the first class meeting of a course. Reports that a good first class meeting includes a well-organized, focused presentation containing basic course information including requirements, expectations, and information on examinations and assignments. Expounds that faculty should…

The purpose of this study was to determine whether collective bargaining significantly affects teacher time, particularly time spent in instruction and preparation. The study was based on recent research indicating that student achievement is affected by the time teachers spend in these areas. Researchers divided the activities performed by…

This manual provides guidelines and activities for organizing and managing junior high school classes. The first five chapters are devoted to the topic of getting ready for the beginning of the school year; the last four chapters suggest guidelines and activities that are helpful in maintaining a management system. Chapter 1 deals with organizing…

Classroom observation of 28 third-grade teachers illustrated the management and planning strategies that differentiate effective teachers from less effective teachers. Effective managers communicated a workable system of rules and procedures, monitored students carefully, and were consistent in treating inappropriate behavior. Less effective…

Small group instruction and circuit programming can eliminate some of the problems of high student/teacher ratio in gymnastics class. (MJB)

This paper addresses the organization of classrooms in which the teacher is the center of control of all activities. Ten anecdotes are presented to illustrate the diversity of teaching methods used. The issue of poor teaching is addressed. (SD)

Describes nontraditional, creative teaching methods that celebrate differences among students. Contrasts these classrooms with programs that force teachers and learners into mediocre sameness using teacher-proof approaches that have been proven wrong for both teachers and learners. Uses personal examples from kindergarten and first-grade…

In response to criticism of methods courses, this paper takes the position that the development of a body of knowledge concerning professional practices is central to the education of professional teachers. Focusing on the complexity of the teaching situation, a discussion is presented on the importance of mastering methods and models of teaching.…