As an outgrowth of the theory of flow, looks at some fine distinctions regarding the adolescent's optimal conditions for growth. Points to the importance of the adolescent's ability to reinterpret conflicts which crop up in raw experience, to overcome psychic entropy with long-term challenges or "life themes," and to find new meaning and…

Defines Cosmic Education using Mario Montessori's concrete illustration of the interdisciplinary and synthetic nature of the program. Suggests that the "The Great River," a sixth "Great Lesson," can be a framework for the history of human cooperation, and that this story lays the groundwork for teaching an understanding of…

Presents flow theory in the context of evolution. Defines the elements of "flow" and contends that flow results in an optimal state of inner harmony which improves one's chance for survival. Identifies consequences of flow for creativity, peak performance, talent development, productivity, self-esteem, and stress reduction. Examines the…

Analyzes public school bureaucracy and ways to reform institutions into learning communities that value shared knowledge and learning experiences. Describes how a bureaucratic organizational structure impairs learning. Proposes the "learning organization" in which adults learn alongside students, planning is decentralized, families are…

Traces the richness of oral forms of expression used in nonliterate societies from ancient times to the present. Discusses the implications of research on orality for the early childhood curriculum and for methods of teaching young children. (BC)

Addresses the development of different curriculums and approaches to implementing Montessori programs at the middle school level, including a humanities-centered approach, interdisciplinary minicourses, master-apprentice programs, and team teaching approaches. Maintains that Montessori middle schools must move beyond the experimental stage and…