Structural equation modeling was used to assess the influence of past mathematics grades, performance expectancies, and value perceptions on math anxiety of 250 seventh through ninth graders. The importance of these variables for grades and course selection was also studied. Results are discussed concerning expectancy-value and self-efficacy…

Describes the development and field-testing of an instrument for measuring the way school library media specialists view themselves in relation to their roles and responsibilities, based on guidelines in "Information Power." Locus of control is discussed, and further revisions of the self-efficacy scale based on field-testing are…

Describes a college service-learning project addressing a crucial need for school-age child care within the community. While creating and implementing the after-school program, students took responsibility for their decisions, cooperated to solve problems and delegate tasks, and developed leadership and self-efficacy. The result was student…

A study of science and engineering graduate students found that at time of entry, women and U.S. minority graduate students had academic credentials and expectations similar to those of their Anglo male peers. Student perceptions of academic preparedness, status-related disadvantages, and expectations about student-faculty interactions were more…

Describes a study that investigates the perceived academic self-efficacy of first-generation students at a large Midwest community college. Indicates that first-generation students have lower self-perceptions of their academic ability than students whose parents have some college experience. Contains one data table and 12 references. (JDI)

Followed an elementary teacher during her transition from preservice to inservice teaching, examining influences on her science teaching efficacy beliefs. Data from teacher interviews, observations, and journal writings indicated that mastery experience and verbal and other forms of social persuasion were the major sources of influence for…

Studies adjustment and behavior changes resulting from school change in students (n=35) ages 12 to 18 who relocated to another school after theirs was destroyed. Subjects were compared to a randomly selected control group of students (n=27) from the joined school. Relocated students experienced lower grades and increased behavior problems. (SNR)

Examined three peer approval and self-worth relationship orientations among young adolescents. Focused on participants who based their self-worth on peer approval. Found such students were more likely to be distracted from schoolwork, to perceive fluctuations in classmate approval and self-worth, and to report lower levels of classmate approval…

Graduate student persistence is related to previous educational experiences of the student, faculty, and departmental support staff and resulting interpersonal dynamics between these three parts of the "academic triad." Any graduate student can be rendered academically incompetent by lack of necessary mentoring support. Graduate student…

Examined factors that influence adolescents' commitments to extracurricular activities over time. Found that psychological factors of perceived competence and peer relationships, as well as contextual factors of perceived challenge, cost, benefits, and emerging identity, were decisive in adolescents' choice to remain involved in activities or…

Six necessary program components to prepare gifted students with disabilities for productive adult lives are identified: provide challenging educational experiences along with supports, facilitate passion learning through enrichment activities, empower students through student-centered planning, develop self-advocacy, enhance positive social…

Presents the results of a study that questioned 32 college music students concerning what students know compared to how their knowledge and skills are valued. Suggests that students may value highest those piano skills (sight reading and musicality) in which they feel least competent. Includes tabular and statistical data. (MJP)

Evaluation of a summer transition program at the University of Kansas found that, in general, participation did not have a significant effect on students' later grade point averages or retention rates. However, for students with lower academic preparation, there was a significant improvement in academic and social self-efficacy. Qualitative…

Compares the relative effects of cognitive style and training method on high school students' computer self-efficacy and learning performance. Explains measures used and statistical techniques, and discusses results that suggest gender, cognitive style, training approach, and training objective should be taken into account to assist students…

This article reports the results of a study of Master's degree students concerning the role of individual differences in Internet searching, including cognitive styles, levels of prior experience, Internet perceptions, study approaches, age, and gender. Discusses retrieval effectiveness and self-efficacy and suggests implications for system…