Outlines an elementary gifted programing model emphasizing gifted behavior rather than gifted students. The model avoids labeling students and allows them to take part in the selection process. (MD)

The author presents a well-structured argument for including humor and laughter in the classroom. He includes ideas and resources for nurturing humor. (MD)

Reviewing public education versus private education concerns, the author outlines the dangers of privatization and presents a strong argument for strengthening public education. (MD)

The author presents a strong case against public funding of private schools while reviewing the inequities brought about by the privatization of social services. (MD)

Describes the Jefferson County Primary Integrated Curriculum program. Developed as an interdisciplinary curriculum, the program allows primary students to work holistically. The article includes Learning Units. (MD)

Presents the results of three curriculum projects using teachers in the creation of learning materials. (MD)

Presents a procedure for curriculum change and textbook adoption using a step-by-step decision-making process. (MD)

Reviewing research on alternative schools, the author notes that the schools show improved student attendance, attitude, and involvement, as well as higher educational quality and academic achievement. (MD)

Summarizes research exploring six solutions to the "2 sigma problem" of devising teaching-learning conditions that will enable the majority of students under group instruction to achieve at levels now possible only when students are tutored. Recommendations include using mastery learning, improving the home environment, and emphasizing higher…

This synthesis of research focuses on nine factors influencing learning, including student characteristics, instructional factors, and environmental factors. In conclusion, the need for devoting more time to academic learning both in school and out of school and the importance of enlisting families as partners in education are emphasized. (MJL)

Herbert Walberg's interpretation of a massive collection of data on school learning is discussed as a guide for inquiry and action by individual teachers. Walberg's study shows that while no single factor can produce marked increases in academic learning, an equation employing nine variables approximately predicts reported numerical measures of…

This literature review concludes that, although time spent is not so consistently related to achievement as it may seem, studies of time use in schools provide important information that can serve as a base for school improvement. (MJL)

Instruction in flexible groups at the Center School accommodates variability in student achievement and aptitude, increases time targeted to specific needs, addresses fairly large groups, reduces the problems of individualized instructional systems, and offers curricular units sequenced according to a hierarchy of skills and concepts, with…

Whitmore Lake's (Michigan) outcome-based planning model emphasizes starting the planning process by obtaining consensus on desired outcomes; involves students, teachers, staff, parents, and community in planning; and identifies the responsibilities of students, the home, and the school in helping students achieve the desired outcomes. (MJL)

Describes a method of monitoring the district curriculum during an extended maintenance period. The program audit for each subject area addresses the degree of fidelity to curriculum objectives, determines whether teachers are emphasizing the curriculum objectives, and identifies factors constraining curriculum implementation. (MJL)