Describes findings of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), on which eighth-grade U.S. scores were above average in science and below average in mathematics. Concludes that teachers are vital to raising standards by analyzing teaching practices, reforming professional development programs, implementating new teaching…

Examines some activities that Miami University initiated to change its teacher training orientation to inclusive practices. The process included establishing a context for change (creating a reform agenda and offering administrative support) and establishing a need for change among constituents (documenting need, identifying inclusive teacher…

This study explored how preservice elementary teachers experienced coursework and field experiences that fostered commitment to socially and pedagogically progressive teaching, especially development of against-the-grain perspectives. Interviews and observations indicated that against-the-grain perspectives evolved from complex interactions of…

This article notes that recent changes in medical schools, due to funding trends and decreased demand for specialist services, have prompted dramatic changes in roles and rewards of faculty. Strategies for managing the changes are outlined for four areas: promotion and tenure, moving toward collective thinking, refining institutional mission and…

This paper reviews the literature on student retention at urban colleges and explores notions of student involvement and academic and social integration especially in relation to nontraditional students. It describes some programmatic interventions designed to improve retention. The paper concludes that partnerships with public schools may have a…

Maintains that technology and school reform are two educational bandwagons that promise to improve education. Recommends the use of constructivist classroom environments to encourage student video productions and strengthen democratic institutions through an informed citizenry. (CFR)

Early educational enrichment is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of low achievement, school dropout, and dysfunctional adult behaviors. The article examines major areas related to preschool and school functioning that require consciousness raising and activism during early childhood education, suggesting ways to help sustain children's…

Describes observations of art education in a Japanese junior high school during a three-month period in 1990. Discusses the teacher's role, classroom environment, course objectives, and teacher-student interaction. Identifies cultural differences and how they affect instructional methods and student achievement. (CFR)

Through a combination of prior coursework, contract learning, credit for experience, standardized tests, and other methods of evaluating prior learning, the Empire State College (New York) allows adults to complete undergraduate degree requirements. The nonresidential institution serves students throughout the state, with faculty in over 40…

Reports a case study that examined how one effective middle school teacher of primarily high-risk students created a classroom environment that enhanced learner outcomes. Analysis of data collected through participant observation and interviews indicated that the normative nature of this particular classroom was intimately entwined with academic…

Reviews social studies curricula developed for classroom use since the 1890s. Examines six categories of differing recommendations. Reveals disparate conceptualizations of what constitutes useful knowledge to attain citizenship objectives. Defines classroom practice as the bottom line, citing findings from recent National Science Foundation…

Reviews research literature that defines cooperative learning and substantiates many educational benefits to be derived from it. Outlines eight selected cooperative learning methods. Reports that research shows cooperative learning methods improve students' academic achievement, self-esteem, and social skills. Also suggests that cooperative…

A discussion of partnerships between schools and colleges to improve education focuses on the roles of college presidents and school superintendents, governing bodies, school administrators, faculty, parents, business and community leaders, students, consultants, and advisory committees in successful cooperative efforts. Parallels with industrial…

Examines study of school and family education and socialization experiences of Swiss 11- to 12-year olds, focusing on their analyses of parent/teacher roles and authority, emotions regarding educational practices, and strategies to face actual or anticipated demands. Discusses methodological issues involved in sociological study of children and…

Investigated book-reading habits of families and teachers to hearing impaired and normal hearing kindergarten children. Found that while there was no significant difference in the book-reading habits of the two groups to their children, hearing-impaired children's families are more careful in book choosing and reading to their children. (Author/SD)