Asynchronous computer-mediated discussions supplemented instruction in mathematics for 10 inservice elementary teachers. Analysis of online discourse revealed three issues: exploration of math phobia; equity in math teaching, including special needs and gender issues; and use of instructional technology. Participants were able to reflect on…

South African students of a variety of religious affiliations in an historically black university were surveyed (160 men, 160 women; 120 social science majors, 200 education majors). The teaching of religious education in multifaith classes was not problematic but rather viewed as an asset to learning. (SK)

Learners of English as a foreign language at a Lebanese university (n=135) completed measures of forms of instruction (cooperative, individualistic, competitive), classroom climate, and English achievement. A moderate positive correlation was found between cooperative learning and perceptions of grading fairness, class cohesion, and social…

In a comparative study of 522 English and 248 Zambian elementary students, English students (more boys than girls) reported proportionally more bullying incidents. Differences in cultural context may account for different results of reported specific bullying behaviors. (Contains 33 references.) (SK)

Social skills training was given to 15 children aged 9-11 who were victims of bullying. Measures of psychosocial adjustment at three points during the year were compared with those of 13 waiting-list controls. The treatment group increased global self-worth, but there were no significant improvements in social skills problems or victim status.…

English secondary students were shown pictures of everyday activities and interviewed about whether math was involved. They were aware of daily math and did not have difficulties identifying math in practical or traditionally female activities. However, they restricted math to activities involving single-solution problems and formal rather than…

Responses from a stratified random sample of British elementary schools (64 of 102) found generally consistent practices in preparing students for national science achievement tests. Variations in time spent, approaches, and resources were related to variables of attainment, school size, class composition, and teacher's professional…

A 5-week cross-age tutoring program involved 14 11-year-olds and 13 7-year-olds. Measures of self-esteem and analysis of verbal interactions indicated that tutors gained in self-concept and self-esteem, tutees in self-esteem. Verbal interactions showed significant increases in use of math words, strategic dialog, and praise. (Contains 61…

A program providing study support to underachieving youth using British football as a motivator was evaluated by comparing 1,247 participants and 244 controls. The program helped raise achievement and seemed equally effective for males and females. There was no evidence that the sports emphasis marginalized girls or ethnic minorities. (Contains 25…

Wilson discusses ways in which educational research is rendered ineffective, stemming from distortion of the concepts of "education" and "research." Includes three commentaries: Harry Brighouse discusses factors impeding research, John White contests the definition of education, and Marian Sainsbury argues that educational research should not be…

Examination of the coding of interview data in studies of the aspirations of British Muslim girls and transition to math teaching compared manual and electronic methods. Choice of methods depended on the size of the project, funds, time, and research expertise. (SK)

Computer use among British 11-12 year-olds (n=364) and 15-16 year-olds (n=575) was compared with an earlier study. Boys still liked computers more and used them more confidently and frequently, especially for games. Older girls had the least positive attitudes. There were more age than gender differences in the use of specific applications.…

Dyslexia issues such as its existence, definition, and medical versus educational construction have been framed by the scientific paradigm. Reframing using an ecological perspective allows assessment focused on whole-school approaches and sociocultural factors. It also enables the use of predictive research and a view of dyslexia as more than a…

A review of research on connections between sports participation and academic achievement examines social and political implications of a shift from school sports to school-aged sports. It questions the context of such research in its emphasis on the utilitarian rather than intrinsic value of physical activity. (Contains 23 references.) (SK)

Third and fifth graders (n=45) were asked about teacher-executed punishments for moral infractions (e.g., stealing) and conventional misbehavior (e.g., gumchewing). Children perceived presentation with unpleasant stimuli as more frequent and effective than removal of privileges. Removal punishments were perceived as more effective for moral…