Dispels six myths about "feel-good" self-esteem. Presents a more dynamic component of self-esteem called "inner self-esteem," which is based on children's actual competencies. Claims that inner self-esteem is enhanced by helping children develop skills to succeed in school and by fostering morally responsible behavior. (RJM)

Describes by vignette and analysis four primary instructional tasks necessary to develop inquiry skills in children. Such tasks are shown to be fundamental to the inviting classroom and to experimental science. Claims that inviting inquiry requires a tolerance of error, supportive environments that nurture intellects, and participation that…

Argues that schools need to intensify efforts to offer values instruction since current efforts portend failure. Examines the historical roots of values education, profiles the social context of values problems, critiques approaches to values, describes ways to unify the advocates of values education, and discusses the current public demand for…

Examines intentional invitations that challenge, confront, exhort, and persuade people to change their behaviors. Assumes that the sender controls the "intention" and that the receiver determines the degree of "inviting." Suggests that elements of the invitational model serve as a framework to create acceptable inducements in the helping process.…

Reports findings, based on a two-year study, of a collaborative effort to develop a learning-centered curriculum which would result in an inviting learning-centered classroom community. Supports the tenet that effective programs feature knowledgeable teachers who have the expertise and inclination to encourage all children to succeed. (RJM)

Describes invitational education and its person-centered approach. Explores the framework of invitational education, its four elements (trust, respect, intentionality, optimism), the perceptual tradition and self-concept theory, and other elements of invitational education. Suggests that invitational education's democratic tenets should be applied…