Although it is possible to point to problems and content in educational research that are likely to be the focus of attention in the future, there is a high degree of uncertainty about research trends. The fields of social ethics in education and mapping the role of education in the society of the future seem probable focal points. (SLD)

This outline of didactical research in Denmark begins with a consideration of the application of the concept of didactics in Denmark and then describes the role of Danish teachers over the last two centuries. Three historical contributions to Danish didactics are identified, and the didactic theory of C. A. Larsen is discussed. Some developmental…

Mill's liberty principle and the children's rights movement ("die Antipadagogen") are discussed in terms of Mill's attitude of paternalism in children's education. Mill contends that the individual liberty of children must be limited for their own good. Proponents of educational liberalism are not justified in claiming Mill as a spokesperson. (TJH)

A systematic presentation is given of the theories of justification normally applied to paternalistic acts: (1) pseudo-paternalism, (2) consequentialism, and (3) consent-based theories. The validity of four common arguments for educational paternalism is discussed: education is necessary, children are ignorant, children are unable to choose, and…

Thirty-nine adult computer novices in Denmark were interviewed and observed to determine the nature of their global understanding of information technology. Three assessment types, three coping strategies, and four categorical frameworks for understanding were identified. A new methodology for testing the validity of qualitative analyses is…

A procedure--"theophrastisation"--is described to present empirical results of an investigation clearly so that teachers can apply them. Other normative implications of empirical research are discussed with reference to a previous study of adult computer novices. Perspectives on adult education in general are discussed. (SLD)