A review of four studies conducted by Ausubel raises serious doubts about the efficacy of advance organizers under a variety of circumstances. In addition, this review questions the adequacy of definitions for two central notions of subsumption theory (discriminability and advance organizer). (IAH)

This article reviews research on the spacing effect (SE): the tendency, given an amount of study time, for spaced presentations of a unit of information to yield much better learning than massed presentations. SE's current status in the classroom and its implications for teacher education are discussed. (IAH)

A study of K-12 teachers (N=321) indicates that teachers who believe that they, and teachers in general, can motivate students to achieve give less evidence of stress and exhibit more internal locus of control than do teachers who believe that neither they, nor other teachers, can affect student performance. (Author/IAH)

This article reviews major investigations that utilized discourse analysis as the method to examine classroom interactions. Discourse analysis is proposed as a valuable technique for educational evaluation. Included in the review are discussions of Bellack's teaching cycles, Sinclair and Coulthard's classroom discourse system, and Mehan's…

This study attempts to determine whether teacher perceptions of the quality of principal instructional leadership relate to differences in student perceptions of the classroom environmental variables associated with effective teaching and classrooms. Results support a relationship between principal instructional leadership and certain classroom…

This feature examines the diverse nature of imagery, how images work, and the use of imagery--in creative dance for children, to enhance alignment, and as a therapeutic device. Also explored are creative visualization and research tools for observing and categorizing the use of images by dance teachers. (IAH)

This article introduces a 10-article feature designed to update American and Canadian physical educators on the status of physical education and sport in their respective countries. A rationale is given for future cooperative ventures in physical education between the 2 countries. (IAH)

This article gives a general perspective on physical education in Canada's K-12 schools. Included is a brief discussion of the evolution of physical education in schools, current curriculum and personnel policies, and future directions for school-based physical education. (IAH)

Describes the current situation of physical education in American elementary, middle, and high schools, including fitness testing and the influence of outside agencies (state departments of education, professional associations, and colleges and universities). Recommendations are made to improve the situation for physical education, especially in…

This article describes past and present approaches to physical education teacher preparation as practiced in Canada. Also discussed are social influences, the professional curriculum, instructional methodology, and the status of specialization within professional education. (IAH)

Components and content of physical education programs are outlined; characteristics of effective programs are identified, and trends and influences affecting physical education teacher education are discussed. (IAH)

This article presents the rationale for including dance in the curriculum of Canadian schools. Provincial policy guidelines are examined, and an overview of teaching methods and class activities is given. Also discussed are multiculturalism and differences in teaching dance as an art form and as a physical education unit. (IAH)

Random inclusion of dance activities and lack of curriculum consistency within and among school districts has resulted in a widening gap between philosophy and practice in dance education. Preparation of dance educators, the influence of an emerging national arts agenda, and curricular issues are discussed. (IAH)

This article shares some current thoughts, actions, and plans to foster physical activity among Canadians with disabilities. Topics include mainstreaming physically disabled students, impact of the Jasper Talks Symposium, a national action plan (Blueprint for Action), and recent initiatives that reflect Canadian commitment to adapted physical…

This article outlines the significant influences on the evolution and status of physical education and sport for disabled individuals. Topics include legislative mandates, adapted physical education, professional preparation in adapted physical education, the changing role of the physical education specialist, disabled sport, and research…