Research on class size effects: a critique of methods and a way forward

Research findings on class size differences need to be examined carefully because of their far reaching pedagogical and resource implications. An examination of research on the possible causal effect of class size differences on pupil progress, and on possible mediating factors, also raises important issues for educational research in general. In this chapter critically different approaches to research on class size effects are reviewed and an approach used in current research at the Institute of Education, that seems most likely to inform this controversial topic is described. Researchers need to pay more attention to providing a more reliable and valid measure of class size itself. In keeping with the bulk of research in this area the emphasis is on quantitative approaches, although possible limitations and alternative research approaches are considered. Limitations of earlier cross sectional research are examined, and the well-known STAR research is used to highlight some limitations of experimental designs. Finally, the advantages of longitudinal research, using multi-level modelling techniques, are examined.     

Teaching [and] Historical Understanding: Disciplining Historical Imagination with Historical Context

The form, content, and practice of history has shifted including changes in conceptualization and practice that came in viewing history as social science, critiques and reconstructions of historical forms of knowledge, and debates about form, format, genre, and discourse. The central argument of this essay begins with the claim that history is a distinctive discipline. It's distinction lies not only, or even primarily, in its subject matter or materials. Rather, history is distinct as a form of inquiry and mode of understanding, with distinguishing characteristics of historical context and historical imagination. Important implications follow.     

An Interview with Arlene G. Taylor

In this interview, conducted via email during August 2016, Dr. Arlene G. Taylor discusses her career as a cataloger, professor of cataloging and classification, and her work in professional associations. Topics include her early cataloging and teaching experiences, changes in both cataloging practice and the teaching of cataloging, subject analysis, and “aboutness” as compared with form/genre access, professional experiences outside the United States, and the future of MLIS programs.     

Single-sex computer classes: An effective alternative

Conclusion Considering the technology gender gap that exists today, there can be no doubt that our current educational system is not engaging female students in technology or awakening them to possibilities of the technology industry as a career. Females are not afraid of computers or lack the ability to master computer skills, but they find the computer environment objectionable (http : / / www.aauw.org/2000/ techsavvybd.html). Several factors within the educational system heighten these objections and impede female progression through technology classes. It is these factors that our educational system must address. Single-sex computer classes offer female students the educational advantages of learning in a comfortable, non-threatening classroom environment where they are encouraged to enthusiastically participate in classroom discussions and activities (Kumagi, 1995). In these classes, curriculum may be adjusted to reflect the need females to see computers as productivity tools (Caplice, 1994). As a result of positive experiences gained while attending single-sex computer classes, females are more likely to pursue higher level computer classes. Although it is possible to argue that single-sex computer classes do not mirror the real world females must contend with once outside the classroom, they are, however, effective interim interventions to enable females to lessen the current technology gap (Kumagi, 1995).     

Education for all: the globalization of learning targets

It is argued that the ambitious programme ‘Education for All’, launched by UNESCO, could be seriously undermined by its reliance upon the achievement of numerical ‘targets’. Evidence from existing attempts by countries to impose educational targets reveals undesirable side‐effects and distortions of educational systems. The paper explores some of the possible consequences of UNESCO's adherence to such targets.