Education & Pedagogy

The introductory article to this special issue on sociocultural perspectives in special education focuses on sociocultural theory in the 21st century, especially cultural shifts as a function of history, demographic shifts, power shifts to such groups as nongovernment organizations, and the importance of assuring equal access to education for children with disabilities. (Contains references.) (DB)

This article discusses the Education Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY) at Stanford University, which delivers computer-based multimedia distance learning opportunities to accelerate gifted students in grades K-12 in the areas of mathematics, physics, computer programming, and expository writing. The program also offers computer-based distance learning for mathematics teachers. (Contains three references.) (CR)

Examines the need for ecological thinking in global education reform, describing biocentric global education and discussing the importance of disciplinary convergence in biocentric global education. After explaining ecological school reform, the paper describes the Ontario Green Schools Project, which emphasized six areas (curriculum, school ground naturalization, telecommunications, school plant, school ethos, and community). Two urban K-8 school projects are described. (SM)

Analyzes the history of global and international education in the social studies in relation to the changes in the U.S. political culture from the end of World War II to the end of the 20th century. Demonstrates that integrating global and international education into the curriculum has always generated opposition. (CMK)

Discusses the development of the partnership between Indiana University (Bloomington) and Ryazan State Pedagogical University (Russia) in March 1994 that is funded by the United States Information Agency. Reports that the areas of activity include global education, university administration, the library, research training, and continuing education. (CMK)

Describes the case method of instruction as using cases or studies of teachers in real or fictional settings as prompts for students' discussion and reflection. Summarizes the case method research in music and teacher education, identifies casebooks for teacher education, discusses teachers' use of case method, and offers suggestions for practice and research. (CMK)

Addresses the major issues in relation to media education in the United Kingdom focusing on the various approaches that have be used historically. Outlines what media education is not and what it could be and discusses why media education is important to democratic societies. Highlights some key terms in media education. (CMK)

A review of the relationship of higher education policy and the world of work concludes that many experts agree that higher education must devote greater attention to generic competencies, social skills, and personality development; should prepare students for growing globalization and internationalization; and must serve students in ways that go beyond classroom teaching and learning. (Author/DB)

A study investigated the extent to which secondary business teachers in the Southern region (n=156) are aware of and implement the National Standards for Business Education and the value they place on them. Implementation in the region was relatively low, and members of the National Business Education Association were no more likely to use them than nonmembers. (JOW)

Uses Canadian class structure and labor data to estimate the returns to over- and under-education. Returns are positive for males in jobs requiring a bachelor's degree, but insignificant for other required education levels. Undereducated males receive lower pay. For females, returns to over-/under-education are insignificant. (Contains 27 references.) (MLH)

Responses from 112 general practitioners in Quebec who organize continuing medical education and interviews with 18 identified their skill and knowledge needs in the areas of needs assessment, adult education principles, and group leadership techniques. Their primary problems included motivating and maintaining physicians' interest in formal continuing education. (SK)

Describes the importance of moving beyond identity labels like Black, Hispanic, or female to examine how gender intersects with other social memberships like race and class. By considering more inclusive, individualized ways of viewing multiculturalism, educators can forge more meaningful conversations with students about diversity and equity. (SM)

Describes efforts of the Women's Educational Equity Act Equity Resource Center, which (1) provides technical assistance and support to grantees who receive funds to develop curricula and training models to alleviate sex bias in education and (2) publishes and disseminates project results. Discusses support for ongoing equity efforts, noting sample resources, new products and programs, and publications. (SM)

Examines key findings on gender equity in education from a 1998 report by the Women's Educational Equity Act Equity Resource Center, which notes that while there are signs of tremendous progress, girls and women still have not achieved full equity in any arena. Discusses and responds to what equity opponents are saying about gender fairness in the schools. (SM)

Describes the experiences and reactions of one female doctoral student/part time college teacher who encountered sex discrimination on campus, examining how she participated in a national campaign to end discrimination in education which led ultimately to the passage of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. (SM)