Presents a rationale for staff development based on encouraging teachers to be more reflective about their teaching and describes some practical examples of teacher reflectivity. (BR)

Advocates changing the concept of ethnic to ethic if we are to strengthen ourselves by buttressing the weakest among us--the unassimilated minorities. (BR)

A sensitive autobiographical account which makes the claim that personal and family history may be more intriguing and ultimately more valuable learning vehicles for appreciating history than lists of battles and Presidents' biographies. (BR)

Reviews research findings about aging and the elderly. Presents results of an 18-month examination of the portrayal of age in 656 Juvenile Picture and Easy Reader books aimed at children ages 3 to 9. (BR)

Briefly discusses the concept of ageism, the stereotyping of groups of people on the basis of age, and lists resources including books, articles and organizations which can be used to combat ageism. (BR)

Provides six questions for teachers to consider before celebrating holidays with their pupils in order to make each celebration a more meaningful learning experience. (BR)

Discusses the role of the teacher in providing children with the opportunity to celebrate holidays and special events in order to foster respect for differences and similarities in traditions. (BR)

Cites recent investigation of the acquisition of bilingualism in young children containing further evidence that they learn two languages in the same way that the monolingual child learns one. Also cites studies showing that the young child's impressive language-learning abilities function in the acquisition of reading. (BR)

Advocates a change in educational emphasis in which humanism is seen not as an alternative but as a given. Suggests switching focus from measuring end-results to providing options which emphasize process and which reflect two themes, namely active learning from concrete experience and the symbolization of that experience through sensory means. (BR)

Cites studies and three illustrative cases showing benefits to a reading program which can be derived from creative dramatics activities. Discusses materials and supplies, physical arrangement and management techniques for a creative dramatics learning center. (BR)

Discusses four factors central to the American playground movement: backlash reaction to cognitive emphasis in early childhood education, influence of European play environments, increasing awareness of deficiencies in traditional American playgrounds, and accumulation of experience with new types of playgrounds. Cites research related to each of…

Discusses two ways of enhancing the ability of clients of local educational services to contribute to policy decisions; first, by developing public policies which support private, voluntary citizen organizations to influence educational policies and, second, by strengthening mandated advisory councils. Briefly describes five means of implementing…

Cites findings of 1974 Ford Foundation report in support of educational alternatives, notes summary of research on alternative public schools, and briefly discusses conclusions from evaluations of alternative public schools in six cities. Also notes three current trends in options, including magnet schools and back-to-basics optional elementary…