This paper reviews research findings that are related to fostering prosocial behavior in the early childhood and elementary classroom. A collection of "experimental best bets" for increasing prosocial behavior in young children is outlined. This collection covers the role of reinforcement and modeling or imitation, the importance of group norms,…

The psychoanalytic theory of identification and the cognitive-developmental and social-learning theories of imitation are briefly described. Pertinent empirical research in the following areas is summarized and critically evaluated: imitation in infants, observational learning, clinical use of modeling, and the relation of imitation to aggression,…

Five studies investigated the development of imitation in children 1-3 years old. Results indicated that children as young as 12 months possess the cognitive capability of translating a perception of an action into their own behavior, but imitation varies as actions requiring direct social commerce with the examiner are imitated less frequently…

This faculty project development had three main objectives: (1) to enable faculty to observe and evaluate their own behavior in the classroom; (2) to provide each faculty member with feedback from peers in a non-evaluative setting; and (3) to allow faculty to observe other teachers in action, to learn alternative teaching styles and to discuss…

Three profoundly retarded students (ages 6, 8, and 12) were taught prelanguage signalling behaviors (grasping the experimenter's finger and tapping the back of one hand with the other) to initiate co-active imitation behaviors with an adult. (JW)

Discusses curriculum for young children centered around the beliefs and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. His works are interpreted in a human rights context in which children find their voice in the peaceable resolution of everyday conflicts. Describes the Child of the Day program. (Author/RWB)

A teacher must always be a model for students in some ways, but this does not mean that s/he must always behave the way students are expected to behave. Other models discussed include inspirational models, such as Mother Theresa, and those which direct behavior without modeling it. (IS)

This research brief highlights studies of nationally- and locally-based youth mentoring programs. The programs were evaluated on an experimentally based design which compared a group of youth randomly assigned to a mentoring program with a group of youth who were not so assigned. The study found overall that mentoring programs can be effective…

Oral reading fluency is an important component of the reading process. Many students develop negative attitudes about reading due to self-consciousness of their below average oral reading skills. In this study, video self-modeling was used with three third-grade students who were below grade level in reading. The self-modeling procedure allowed…

Psychological and motor performance modeling research literature is reviewed to identify important factors involved in and affecting the modeling process as it relates to motor skill acquisition. Future research directions are discussed, and implications for physical educators and coaches who employ modeling as an instructional technique are…

The research literature on assisted reading is reviewed to determine whether this approach should be recommended to remedial reading and classroom teachers. To date, research has been inconclusive as to when, how, or why any of the forms of assisted reading can be used effectively. (SEW)

Aspects of information feedback and practice conditions were studied to gain insight into processes underlying the observational learning of motor skills. A major purpose was to test whether subjects observing a practice variability strategy would perform better than those observing a model practicing under constant conditions. (Authors/PP)

Reviews present and potential uses of videotape technology in behavioral research. Emphasis is placed on research methodology and the value of incorporating videotape in current research practices, including behavior observation studies, in modeling research, and in perceptual attribution investigations. Concludes with an analysis of advantages…

Describes a process known as behavior modeling, used by more than 300 companies to train managers and supervisors by showing videotapes of company managers effectively motivating others in a variety of situations. Participants rehearse the modeling behavior and apply the skills to the job. Includes an actual model script. (MF)

Finding a clinical attending physician role model is one mechanism that medical students can use to cope with the stress engendered by a clinical clerkship. A survey of medical students at the Medical College of Ohio explores this role modeling process. Relevant literature is related and implications of the attending physician role model are…