The author examines how problem-based learning (PBL) and technology may be combined in the English literature classroom in order to inspire various types of collaboration, which, in turn, improves critical reading, thinking, and writing skills; hones research skills; encourages interdisciplinary study; energizes discussion; enforces connections…

The abilities to research completely and write clearly are essential to both the court and the legal practitioner, and they must be emphasized in the law school curriculum. The written brief is particularly important. Law review experience can be particularly helpful in gaining experience, skills, and perspective. (MSE)

Describes a documented term paper assignment that allows students to investigate topics in other courses in which they are enrolled. Discusses the advantages of enlisting help from instructors in other areas and offers tips for involving the cooperating instructors in a mutually satisfying way. (FL)

This article details a project for teaching elementary school students to understand and accept multicultural differences. This task is made easier by involving actual international visitors. Students need a considerable amount of background information before an international visitor comes to class. In preparing for a visitor, students can…

Argues that the conventional method of teaching the generic research paper as a separately designated activity is ineffective and misleads students as to the nature of genuine research. (JL)

Prescribes steps that can be taken to overcome the problems of teaching the research paper. (JL)

Undergraduate students are routinely assigned a long research paper--surely the most complex intellectual skill ever expected from them--and expected to write it with a minimum of teacher and library interference and with thorough faith in the end product. More than anything else, the traditional approach to directing research papers focused on…

This article describes the "Add-a-Page Assignment" in which students choose a picture book to which they would add a page, imitating both the style and artistic medium of the illustrator and the writing style of the author. In this article, the author begins with quotes from students who have very different learning styles and vastly different…

Asserts that freshman English should prepare students to work in other academic disciplines as well. Proposes teaching critical ("rhetorical") reading to both students and English teaching assistants as a utilitarian means of meeting the humanistic ends of all inquiry. (JL)

Analyzes a research model entitled "The Professional Communications Network" and shows a step-by-step approach to implementing this model in writing courses that require technical research. Shows logical development of an average technical research paper and ends with an evaluation of the network by students. (EL)

Discusses the skills, attitudes, and work habits necessary for conducting research in music education. Describes the process used in a historical research study about the impact of Lowell Mason on music in U.S. history. Concludes with six practical suggestions on historical research. (CFR)

Problems faced by graduate students in research and writing and ways to improve competence in these areas are addressed. Student problems were identified through formal/informal interviews and work with graduate students over a 12-year period. In the first step of choosing a topic, students may be worried that the topic is too broad, narrow, or…

Discusses "Liberal Learning and the History Major," a report on the state of history education by the American Historical Association that cited a need for curricular structure in and continuity among history departments. Includes an overview of recommendations on curriculum, active learning, and emphasis on research and writing skills.…

Increasingly, students in public schools, colleges, and universities are exposed to United States history and literature via commercial and cable television and the motion picture industry. If students are going to use videotapes of historical and literature-based films as short cuts to learning, then faculty are obligated to structure videotapes…

Examines four software packages: (1) "Wordbench"--writing and word processing, grades 9-12 (IBM and Apple); (2) "Muppet Slate"--language arts, grades K-2 (Apple); (3) "Accu-Weather Forecaster"--weather analysis and forecasting, grades 3-12 (modem with IBM or Mac); and (4) "The Ripple That Changed American…