Quantitative algebraic and qualitative topological models can be used in the quest for simple explanations in the field of teaching and learning. The examples described cover such diverse topics as teacher anxiety and classroom control, process-product studies, aptitude-treatment interactions, the pace of instruction, the size of classes, and…

A study examined the influence of situated knowledge embedded in 17 rural preservice teachers' autobiographies on their perspectives on diversity and future classroom practices. Four themes emerged in interviews: situative cognition in rural contexts; cultural groups being together but existing apart; understanding group similarities and…

Though many maintain that current standards-based school reform is unprecedented, an educational reform effort begun nearly a century ago set standards for improving rural midwestern schools. Begun during the tumultuous Progressive Era, the standard-school initiative emerged from a larger concern for the quality of American rural life. A…

A program in rural Alberta (Canada) used retired teachers to mentor beginning teachers. Surveys and interviews with 24 proteges and 21 mentors indicated that the recruitment of experienced mentors, the provision of money, the establishment of a sense of community, and the provision of time for reflection all contributed to the program's success.…

May Justus taught in rural Appalachian schools in the 1930s, then worked at the Highlander Folk School, which focused on adult education, labor organizing, and the civil rights movement. Her children's books reflected Appalachian values of commitment to family and community. She was a true radical educator, who drew on the region's best values to…

The taskforce charged with developing a national framework for rural education policy in Australia reports that such a policy should allow for local differences and provide flexibility in implementation by states and territories. Essential enablers of quality education in rural locations--personnel, relevant curriculum, information communication…

A 15-year study found that Amish schools have increased, numbering 1,139 in 2000. Where public school funding is on a per-pupil basis, these schools may have a negative effect on rural school district financing. However, an Amish community may increase local farm-related trade and tourism, thereby increasing taxable property and public school…

This issue discusses homework issues related to students with disabilities and how to ensure that students with disabilities benefit from homework. It addresses communication problems teachers face in assigning homework to students with disabilities and recommendations for overcoming these communication barriers. Strategies are provided for…

A review of research supported by the Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) focuses on practical applications of research findings on family involvement in special education. The findings identify how family life can be utilized as a source of children's learning opportunities, concluding with four suggested…

Explores ways in which researchers gathered and analyzed data from time-log diaries kept by further education instructors in order to illuminate the social conditions of teaching. Describes the process of refinement of diaries and the combination of qualitative and quantitative data. (Contains 40 references.) (SK)

A study of 643 British Year 11 students showed that 448 intended to stay at their school and 109 intended to change. Both parents and students were involved in decisions. Movers predominantly favored further education over advanced-level pathways. The costs of moving or staying in terms of relationships and institutional ambiance differed.…

Distance (n=37) and campus-based (n=68) nursing students completed the Learning Support Needs Questionnaire. Both groups had significant learning support needs. The distance group had lower expectations of support, and the campus-based group was significantly less satisfied with support. (Contains 31 references.) (SK)

A study of mentoring for beginning teachers at a British college showed that mentors and proteges had differing definitions of Mentoring. Better communication about expectations, mentor training, and recognition of different Mentoring styles were needed. (SK)

Case studies of preservice teacher education in postcompulsory education and of a key skills development project are examples of practitioner-relevant action research. They suggest that further education is not so much underresearched as undervalued, and they fill a need for evidence-based policy and practice. (Contains 35 references.) (SK)

A survey of 82 adults in noncredit programs on the arts and lifelong learning and interviews with 25 identified their motivations and outcomes. They valued noncredit learning for the opportunity to try something new in a nonthreatening environment. These learning opportunities benefited their social involvement, health, and well-being. (SK)