Describes important components of parent education classes including: (1) class composition; (2) inherent vulnerability of participants; (3) a fun and encouraging atmosphere; (4) teachers who ask and do not tell; (5) teachers who accept mistakes; (6) a parent-friendly class that includes food, movement, and modeling; and (7) focus on parenthood as…

The six editions of this newsletter provide a forum for the sharing of research findings and instructional strategies by faculty of Western Michigan University on issues connected with critical thinking. Topics addressed include alternative program designs for critical thinking instruction, a philosophical exploration of what critical thinking is,…

This action research project implemented and evaluated a program for improving classroom seating arrangements in order to increase on-task behavior among students in second and third grade. The problem of off-task behavior was documented by means of behavior checklists and anecdotal records. Analysis of probable cause data revealed that students'…

This document summarizes the first wave of data collection and findings for the elementary, middle, and senior high schools participating as pilot sites for the Positive Attitudes in Tennessee Schools (PATS) Project. Following an overview of the goals of the project, the school improvement change model used by the project, and the research and…

School location of microcomputers and its impact on use were examined using data from the National Survey of School Uses of Microcomputers. An analysis of the responses from 1,082 (68% of the sample) microcomputer-using, public and non-public, elementary and secondary schools surveyed between December 1982 and March 1983, suggests that where…

In light of the importance of a teacher's managerial ability and the use of small and large group instruction to increase direct instruction time, teachers should apply specific managerial skills in their reading classes to ensure student learning. Successful teachers get to know their students, set instructional goals, and make sure students know…

Classroom management techniques used by two teachers in an open classroom are described. The organization and arrangement of materials and activities and the establishment of rules of behavior are also discussed. (JP)

Twenty-eight third grade teachers were observed by a team from the Research and Development Center for Teacher Education at the University of Texas in order to identify discipline and teaching strategies most conducive to the establishment of a successful student-teacher relationship. This package is the result. Ideas and suggestions designed to…

DESCRIBED IS THE REORGANIZATION OF A FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL FROM A GRADED TO A NONGRADED PHASED CURRICULUM DEVELOPED AROUND STUDENTS' ACHIEVEMENT LEVELS, RATHER THAN THEIR CHRONOLOGICAL AGES. CLASSROOM WORK ACCOMPANYING VARIOUS ACHIEVEMENT PHASES IS DESCRIBED. REMEDIAL WORK IS EMPHASIZED IN THE FIRST PHASE, BASIC SKILLS IN THE SECOND, AVERAGE LEVELS…

This document is a guide for consultants observing teacher behavior, its effects on students, and learning environment conditions in a PLAN (Program for Learning in Accordance with Needs) classroom. (Appended are a series of 27 questions and answers which describe PLAN, an individualized, computer-assisted instructional system initially operating…

The author taught in an open-space classroom at Argyle Junior High in Montgomery County, Maryland. Here is a candid look at the inner workings of a room without walls. (Editor/RK)

Presents a bibliography of current professional articles on topics such as the open classroom, classroom organization, learning theory, motivation, the use of traditional teaching materials, and reading instruction. (MAI)

Describes a curriculum model designed to clarify some issues involved in individualized instruction. Its intent is to sort through the vast array of programs developed for individualization and to achieve a better understanding of the concept of individualized learning. Based on informal and formal approaches, the model contains: goals and…

Describes several ways to create a classroom environment conducive to reading, including designing reading bulletin boards, creating reading and writing centers, and establishing "discovery spots" to encourage young readers. (MM)

Poses six questions for administrators considering a year-round, multitrack school schedule. Discusses probable constraints concerning implementation levels, class organization, staff preparation, and impact on plant maintenance, summer school programs, and community relations. Classroom sharing and summer school present special difficulties;…