Review: Approaches to educational psychology‐some recent textbooks

Blair, G. M., Jones, R. S., and Simpson, R. H., Educational Psychology (4^th Ed.). New York: Macmillan, 1975. 624 pages. $8.95

Craig, R. C., Mehrens, W. H., and Clarizio, H. F., Contemporary Educational Psychology: Concepts, Issues, Applications. New York: Wiley, 1975. 558 pages. $9.95

Gage, N. L., and Berliner, D. C., Educational Psychology. Chicago: Rand McNally, 1975. 869 pages. $9.95

Lefrancois, G., Psychology for Teaching (2nd Ed.). Belmont, Cal.: Wadsworth, 1975. 372 pages. $7.95

Packard, R. G., Psychology of Learning and Instruction. Columbus, Ohio: Merrill, 1975. 480 pages. $9.95

Smith, M. D., Educational Psychology and its Classroom Applications. Boston: Allyn & Bacon, 1975. 574 pages. $9.95     

Prediction/discussion-based learning cycle versus conceptual change text: comparative effects on students’ understanding of genetics

Background and purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the comparative effects of a prediction/discussion-based learning cycle (HPD-LC), conceptual change text (CCT) and traditional instruction on 10th grade students’ understanding of genetics concepts.

Sample:

Participants were 112 10th basic grade male students in three classes of the same school located in an urban area. The three classes taught by the same biology teacher were randomly assigned as a prediction/discussion-based learning cycle class (n?=?39), conceptual change text class (n?=?37) and traditional class (n?=?36).

Design and method:

A quasi-experimental research design of pre-test–post-test non-equivalent control group was adopted. Participants completed the Genetics Concept Test as pre-test–post-test, to examine the effects of instructional strategies on their genetics understanding. Pre-test scores and Test of Logical Thinking scores were used as covariates.

Results:

The analysis of covariance showed a statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the favor of experimental groups after treatment. However, no statistically significant difference between the experimental groups (HPD-LC versus CCT instruction) was found.

Conclusions:

Overall, the findings of this study support the use of the prediction/discussion-based learning cycle and conceptual change text in both research and teaching. The findings may be useful for improving classroom practices in teaching science concepts and for the development of suitable materials promoting students’ understanding of science.     

The Troubled Student

Can Consensus Come from Our Present Disarray?: The State of the Nation and the Agenda for Higher Education By Howard Bowen San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1982, 212 pages, index, $13.95. Reviewed by W. B. Allen

A Valuable Tool for Educational Reform On Teaching and Learning in College By Paul L. Dressel and Dora Marcus San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1982, 241 pages, index, $16.95. Reviewed by Frederick Stirton Weaver     

Books in brief

Raising Our Sights: Improving U.S. Achievement in Mathematics and Science John O'Neil for the ASCD Panel on U.S. Achievement in Mathematics and Science Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) 1991 40 pp. $6.50

Ready to Learn: Early Childhood Education and the Public Schools National School Boards Association (NSBA) 1990 48 pp.

Developing and Supporting Teachers for Science Education in the Middle Years The National Center for improving Science Education 1990 86 pp.     

Knowledge of secondary school pupils regarding sexual health education

Objective: To assess the sexual health knowledge of secondary school pupils in order to ascertain whether the current government public health and education policies are having any impact on pupils' sexual health.

Design: Results obtained from a questionnaire as part of a two‐phase intervention study.

Setting: Nineteen mixed‐sex, state secondary schools in central England.

Participants: Year 8 pupils (350 male, 345 female), year 9 pupils (300 male, 325 female) and year 10 pupils (310 male, 329 female).

Intervention: A questionnaire survey to assess the knowledge of pupils' sexual health education.

Main outcome measures: Questionnaires distributed to pupils as baseline to assess their knowledge of sexual health, contraception and sexually transmitted infections.

Results: Sexual health knowledge improves with age. A significant difference across all age groups was found, although knowledge regarding sexually transmitted infections and emergency contraception is poor for all age groups.

Conclusions: Current sexual health education provision is not providing young people with adequate knowledge regarding sexual health and contraception.     

Emotional Intensity in Gifted Students: Helping Kids Cope With Explosive Feelings

Making Connections: Teaching and the Human Brain Renate Nummela Caine and Geoffrey Caine Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) 1250 N. Pitt St. Alexandria, VA 22314–1403 1991 $15.95 paper

Restructuring Schooling for Individual Differences William M Bechtol and Juanita S. Sorenson Allyn and Bacon 111 10th St. Des Moines, IA 50309 1992 448 pp. $39.95

You Can't Say You Can't Play Vivian Gussin Paley Harvard University Press 79 Garden St. Cambridge, MA 02138 1992 144 pp. $10.00

Challenging the Potential: Programs for Disadvantaged Talented Youth Sherri Oden, Mario Kelley, Zhenkui Ma, David Weikart High/Scope Press 600 N. River St. Ypsilanti, MI 48198–2890 1991 400 pp. $29.00

Creative Thinking Problem‐Solving and the Arts Orientation John F. Wakefield Ablex Publishing Corporation 355 Chestnut St; Norwood, NJ 07648 1992 $22.50     

Resources In Review

Abstract

Toxics Release Inventory Package , by the National Science Teachers Association. Arlington, VA. 1999. Boxed Set. $35.00. ISBN 0-87355-171-0.

Introduction to Environmental Geology , by Edward A. Keller. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice-Hall. 1999. Softcover. 383 pages. $50.00. ISBN 0-02-363290-9.

The National Environmental Policy Act: An Agenda for the Future , by Lynton Keith Caldwell. Bloomington: Indiana University Press. 1999. Clothbound. 272 pp. $29.95. ISBN 0-253-33444-6.

The Complete Guide to Environmental Careers in the 21st Century , edited by Kevin Doyle for The Environmental Careers Organization. Washington, DC: Island Press. 1999. Paperback. 280 pages. $17.95. ISBN 1-55963-586-X.

Garbage, Trash, and Refuse: Problems and Issues, an Extended Case Study for the Investigation and Evaluation of Community-Based Solid Waste Issues , by Harold R. Hungerford, William J. Bluhm, and Austin Winther. Champaign, IL: Stipes Publishing Company. 1999. Spiralbound. 183 pages. ISBN 0-87563-880-5.

Threatened and Endangered Animals, an Extended Case Study for the Investigation and Evaluation of Issues Surrounding Threatened and Endangered Animals of the United States, Teachers Edition , by Harold R. Hungerford, David Hagengruber, and William J. Bluhm. Champaign, IL: Stipes Publishing Company. 1999. Spiralbound. 192 pages. ISBN 0-87563-874-0.

The Environment: Principles and Applications , by Chris Park. New York: Routledge. 1997. Paperback. 598 pp. $35.00. ISBN 0-415-12200-7.     

How autonomy support mediates the relationship between self-efficacy and approaches to learning

Abstract

The significant interplay between self-efficacy, autonomy support and approaches to learning in adolescent students is widely recognized. However, less is known about whether substantial differences exist between early and middle adolescent students from schools with different environments. To close this research gap, this study used latent mean comparison and multigroup structural equation modeling with questionnaire data from a sample of German adolescent students (N?=?1153; M_AgeT1?=?13.97, SD = 1.37; M_AgeT2?=?14.27, SD = 1.25) in two waves. Multigroup structural equation modeling reveals that autonomy functions as a mediator in the association between self-efficacy and approaches to learning only for students from schools with a student-centered learning environment based on competence-matrices in contrast to a teacher-directed learning environment, particularly for early adolescent students. More specifically, adolescents’ approaches to learning can be enhanced through autonomy-supportive learning independently of their self-efficacy.     

Concepts before coding: non-programming interactives to advance learning of introductory programming concepts in middle school

ABSTRACT

Background and Context: Learners struggle with conceptual understanding of introductory programming concepts such as variables, expressions, and loops.

Objective: We examine whether and how designed activities for conceptual exploration support preliminary engagement with and learning of foundational and often hard-to-grasp programming concepts for students in grades 6–8.

Method: Drawing on principles from dynamic mathematics, we developed a suite of non-programming digital and unplugged activities embedded in a curriculum before students engage in Scratch block-based programming. We conducted empirical research in three middle school classrooms in diverse urban US schools and examined student performance through mixed qualitative and quantitative methods.

Findings: Learning gains were significant and not predicted by grade, gender or prior academic preparation. Free-choice projects of students showed statistically greater (correct) use of key concepts compared to those not in the study.

Implications: Our work demonstrates the promise of novel approaches such as interactive non-programming activities for deeper understanding of programming concepts.     

The Problem of the Inarticulate

Abstract

A Few Good Apples An Apple for My Teacher: Twelve Authors Tell About Teachers Who Made the Difference Edited by Louis D. Rubin, Jr. Algonquin Books of Chapel Hill, 1987, xiv + 186 pages, $10.95 Reviewed by Roy Starling

Abrasive but Hopeful: The Closing of the American Mind: How Higher Education Has Failed Democracy and Impoverished the Souls of Today's Students By Allan Bloom New York: Simon and Schuster, 1987, 392 pages, $18.95 Reviewed by Robert L. Spaeth     

Classroom materials

Social Studies for the Young Child Science for the Young Child Creative Movement for the Developing Child Telling Stories Through Movement by Dorian and Gulland Fearon Pitman Publishers, Inc. 6 Davis Drive Belmont, CA 94002

Friendly Dragons, From the Best In Children's Literature — Level 3, Edited by Dr. Walter Loban and Lillian M. Watklns, Bowmar/Noble Publications Inc., 4563 Colorado, Los Angeles, CA 90039

“Discovering Nature” “Earth Science” Published by Educational Insights. Inc., 20435 S. Tillman Ave., Carson, California 90746

Nutrition: Food and Health, Science and Mankind, Inc., Communications Park, Box 200, White Plains, New York, 10802     

The potential for developing educational farms: a SWOT analysis from a case study

ABSTRACT

Purpose: Educational farms (EFs) serve a number of social and economic functions and are part of the debate about new learning environments, multifunctional agriculture and firm diversification. Through the analysis of a case study, this paper aims to identify strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of EFs and key factors for setting a development strategy.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A direct survey to EFs in Molise region (IT) was implemented during April-May 2017 and results were assessed following a SWOT approach.

Findings: Strong motivation and connection with agritourism activities are strengths of EFs in the region; small size, unskilled staff, lack of structured educational pathways, and limited profitability are the main weaknesses. Farms opportunities come from a territory rich in rural landscapes, environmental resources, and typical food products, and from a growing demand for educational tourism. Obstacles are in the institutional sphere and due to the absence of regional networks. Based on SWOT findings, key factors for EFs development are discussed.

Practical implications: EFs development requires innovative educational and managerial tools, a more concerted and proactive role for multiple stakeholders, and the implementation of a network approach. Study findings solicit actions from public institutions and advisory services to improve farmers’ skills.

Theoretical implications: The paper contributes to the theoretical debate about the need for a multidisciplinary approach in dealing with the analysis of EFs.

Originality/Value: The analysis underlines the importance of internal and external drivers in stimulating farms and institutions to support diversification strategies, rural development and transformation processes in inner areas.     

一矩阵方程组的反射解

We derive necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence and an expression of the （anti）reflexive solution with respect to the nontrivial generalized reflection matrix P to the system of complex matrix equations AX = B and XC = D. The explicit solutions of the approximation problem min x∈Ф ｜｜X - E｜｜F was given, where E is a given complex matrix and Ф is the set of all reflexive （or antireflexive） solutions of the system mentioned above, and ｜｜·｜｜ is the Frobenius norm. Furthermore, it was pointed that some results in a recent paper are special cases of this paper.     

Discrepancies Among Teachers' Priorities for and Knowledge of Freshwater Topics

Abstract

A Blueprint for Environmental Education , edited by Jane S. Shaw. Bozeman, MT: Political Economy Research Center. 1999. Paperback. ISBN 0-9668243-1-8.

Environmental Education and Biodiversity , edited by Arjen E. J. Wals. Wageningen, The Netherlands: National Reference Centre for Nature Management. 1999. Paperback. ISBN 90-75789-03-3.

The Environmental Impact Statement Process and Environmental Law , by Emmett B. Moore. Columbus, OH: Battelle Press. 2000. Paperback. 162 pages. $19.95. ISBN 1-57477-092-6.

Caring for Plunet Earth, Volume 1: The Great Lakes, CD-ROM , Grand Rapids, MI: Center for Environmental Study. 1998. $39.00. Formatted for Macintosh, Windows 95, and Windows 3.1

Edgar Beaver's Destiny: An Environmental Fable , by Joseph Petulla. Available through Xlibris Corporation (www.Xlibris.com). 2000. Paperback. 124 pages. $16.00. ISBN 0-7388-2471-2.

A Plague of Frogs: The Horrifying True Story , by William Souder. New York: Hyperion. 2000. Hardback. Illustrated. 299 pages. $23.95. ISBN 0-7868-6360-9.

Environmental Education and Communication for a Sustainable World: Handbook for International Practitioners , edited by Brian A. Day and Martha C. Monroe. Washington, DC: Academy for Educational Development. 2000. Paperback. 138 pages. ISBN 0-89492-108-8.     

Reordering and Reflecting Factors for Simulation Studies With Exploratory Factor Analysis

This article describes the REREFACT R package, which provides a postrotation algorithm that reorders or reflects factors for each replication of a simulation study with exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The purpose of REREFACT is to provide a general algorithm written in freely available software, R, dedicated to addressing the possibility that a nonuniform order or sign pattern of the factors could be observed across replications. The algorithm implemented in REREFACT proceeds in 4 steps. Step 1 determines the total number of equivalent forms, I, of the vector of factors, η. Step 2 indexes, i = 1, 2 … I, each equivalent form of η (i.e., ηⁱ) via a unique permutation matrix, P (i.e., Pⁱ). Step 3 determines which ηⁱ each replication follows. Step 4 uses the appropriate Pⁱ to reorder or re-sign parameter estimates within each replication so that all replications uniformly follow the order and sign pattern defined by the population values. Results from two simulation studies provided evidence for the efficacy of the REREFACT to identify and remediate equivalent forms of η in models with EFA only (i.e., Example 1) and in fuller parameterizations of exploratory structural equation modeling (i.e., Example 2). How to use REREFACT is briefly demonstrated prior to the Discussion section by providing annotations for key commands and condensed output using a subset of simulated data from Example 1.     

Sharing the Excitement of Learning

Abstract

Toward a Literate America Cultural Literacy: What Every American Needs To Know By E. D. Hirsch, Jr. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1987, xvii + 251 pages, $16.95. Reviewed by Fauneil J. Rinn

Changing the Odds Academic Women, Working towards Equality By Angela Simeone South Hadley, Massachusetts: Bergin &; Garvey, 1987, 161 pages, $27.95 hardbound, $10.95 softbound. Reviewed by Pheme Perkins

Fruitful Background for Reasonable Discussion Orators and Philosophers: A History of the Idea of Liberal Education By Bruce Kimball New York: Teachers College/Columbia University, 1986, xix + 293 pages, $19.95. Reviewed by Geoffrey Comber     

Facilitating conditions for farmer learning behaviour in the student-to-farmer university outreach

Purpose: This study elucidates on how faculty supervision support to students during farm placements and other facilitating conditions influence farmer learning in the student-centred university outreach.

Methodology/Design/Approach: Cross-sectional data were collected from a sample of 283 farmers who had previously hosted students of Gulu University in the student-to-farmer university outreach. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse how faculty supervision support to students in combination with other facilitating conditions affect the formation of intentions for learning and actual farmer learning behaviour.

Findings: Faculty supervision support in the student-to-farmer outreach was found to significantly influence formation of intentions for learning (β?=?0.380; t?=?5.263; P?β?=?0.182; t?=?2.081; P?Practical implications: Faculty supervision support to students is critical to fostering lasting learning relationships in university outreach. Thus, it needs to be a part of the transformation agenda of the higher education sector for improved community linkages and innovation.

Theoretical implications: Empirical data obtained from the context of student-centred university outreach is used to extend the model of facilitating conditions.

Originality/Value: The study addresses how faculty supervision support together with farmers’ perception of student attitudes and the value of the learning content influence farmers’ learning behaviour during university outreach.     

‘It didn’t really change my opinion’: exploring what works,what doesn’t and why in a school science,technology, engineering and mathematics careers intervention

Background: It is widely agreed that more needs to be done to improve participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Despite considerable investment in interventions, it has been difficult to discern their effectiveness and/or impact on participation.

Purpose: This paper discusses findings from a six-week pilot STEM careers intervention that was designed and overseen by a teacher from one London girls’ school. We reflect on the challenges for those attempting such interventions and the problems associated with evaluating them.

Sample: Data were collected from Year 9 students (girls aged 13–14 years) at the school.

Design and methods: Pre- and post-intervention surveys of 68 students, classroom observations of intervention activities, three post-intervention discussion groups (five or six girls per group) and a post-intervention interview with the lead teacher were conducted.

Results: Although the intervention did not significantly change students’ aspirations or views of science, it did appear to have a positive effect on broadening students’ understanding of the range of jobs that science can lead to or be useful for.

Conclusions: Student aspirations may be extremely resistant to change and intervention, but students’ understanding of ‘where science can lead’ may be more amenable to intervention. Implications are discussed, including the need to promote the message that science is useful for careers in and beyond science, at degree and technical levels.