This article contains a poem which defines social studies. (RM)

In response to the Pekarsky article in the Spring 1980 issue of "Theory and Research in Social Education," the author argues that moral dilemma stories are an appropriate teaching approach for a moral education program. Moral dilemma discussions benefit both teachers and students. (RM)

Investigated the effects of individual difference variables of field dependence/independence and spatial visualization ability on the performance of college students in three modes. The extent to which four variables account for variability in retention test performance on certain tasks was also viewed. (MP)

Data indicate that relatively advanced science-oriented college students can experience serious difficulties in symbolizing certain meaningful relationships with algebraic equations. Reversal errors in formulating equations were seen to stem from two main sources: (1) a syntactic word order matching process and (2) a semantic static comparison…

Some easily graded measures of problem-solving processes are introduced, and the impact of a month-long intensive problem-solving course on a selected group of college freshmen and sophomores is demonstrated. The measures are thought to have shown themselves to be both reliable and informative. (MP)

This study viewed the impact of calculators on achievement and attitudes and differential effects of this use on various population groups in a community college arithmetic course. Data did not confirm the use of calculators for motivational purposes, inspiring confidence, or increasing problem-solving skills for all types of students. (MP)

The relative effectiveness of a nongraded approach and a traditional graded approach was studied. Seventh-grade pupils in six junior high schools were the subjects. Results did not provide evidence of the superiority of either schooling method. However, the different environments may impact differentially on pupils. (MP)

Reasons why fewer females than males continue studying mathematics beyond those courses required for high school graduation or college entrance are examined. Data suggest intervention programs aimed at increasing female participation will be most successful by increasing perceptions of usefulness and generating interest in male-stereotyped…

The utilitarian values of music education that have formed its historical philosophical basis have been rejected during the last 30 years because they have little to do with music. Music is now taught for the sake of music. (RM)

Reports results of a study which examined predictors of music achievement for general music students in the upper elementary grades. Predictors examined were attitude toward music, self-concept in music, music background, academic achievement, and gender. (RM)

This study examined the predictive validity of previous music abilities and experiences of skill in music error detection among undergraduate instrumental music education majors. Results indicated no statistically significant relationships which suggest that the ability to detect music errors may exist independently of other music abilities.…

This article presents the case for the systematic study of music instruction using economic analysis. A taxonomy of four instructional types based on teacher and student choice is derived and hypothetical examples from music instruction are presented. The implications of the analysis for future research are discussed. (Author)

This study of a third-grade class investigated two academic rewards as contingencies for correct math responses: receipt of books and viewing of televised music lessons. Results indicated that both types of rewards functioned to increase math performance. The televised lessons also lead to gains in music knowledge. (Author/SJL)

Subjects of the study were five elementary string class students (grades 4-6) who performed consistently with incorrect left-hand positions. Although students varied in response to different teaching styles, praise was always as effective as corrective feedback in changing the left-hand position and more durable in its effectiveness. (Author/SJL)

Fifth-graders listened to a tape incorporating fast and slow vocal and instrumental excerpts within the generic styles of rock/pop, country, older jazz, newer jazz, art music, and band music. A preference hierarchy emerged favoring the popular styles. Across pooled styles, faster tempos and instrumentals were slightly preferred. (Author/SJL)