A Review of “Encyclopedia of Diversity in Education. (Vols. 1–4)”

This article adopts an existentialist lens to examine the phenomenon of entering conflict with other human beings and the potential effects of such engagement on identity. In particular, it explores a teacher's active engagement (or lack thereof) in conflict as a response to the humiliation or degradation of a student. The comfort of a secure current identity and the risk that conflict poses to such an identity is posited as both the catalyst and barrier to active engagement. The point of conflict presents the teacher with a choice between self-protection and courageous sacrifice. This article attempts to expose the under-workings of such a decision through the use of narrative, depicting a situation of potential conflict between teacher and student.     

Effects of group work training on science attainment in rural and urban schools

This study investigated the effects of collaborative group work skills training on pupil attainment in science. Twenty‐four experimental classes were drawn from schools in rural and urban settings. Pupils in experimental classrooms engaged in general group work skills training and two structured group work activities in science. Attainment was assessed using the Performance Indicators in Primary Schools (PIPS) instrument. Significant gains in science attainment were observed in the experimental urban and rural classes. Significant changes in observed group work behaviours were observed in both urban and rural classes. Changes in group work behaviour were correlated to increased science attainment. The implications for practice, policy and future research are explored.     

Teachers’ Attitudes towards Disruptive Behaviour and their Use of Internal Referral

This study offers a very neat demonstration of something which conventional wisdom holds: that our actions reflect our beliefs. But the topic under investigation is a challenging one – teachers’ uses of ‘referral systems’ in school. The evidence suggests that referrals reflect teachers’ beliefs – not, therefore, the pupils’ behaviour. We do not know of a study of this sort anywhere in the literature on school behaviour, yet these findings have major implications for those pastoral systems which have become distorted into discipline systems. Michael examines these with care, taking pains not to be simply ‘pointing the finger’.

Michael Evans has been teaching physical education and mathematics in London for seven years. Currently in his second secondary post as Head of Year, Michael is working to complete his MA at the University of London Institute of Education. In his spare time he heads for the hills, wind and rain of Scotland.     

Excerpts from Barriers to Excellence: Our Children at Risk

The following excepts from Barriers to Excellence are reprinted by permission of the National Coalition of Advocates for Students. In this issues's Reviews, Sonia Nieto comments on this book, which, technically speaking, is authored by the Board of Inquiry. Howe and Edelman were the Board's co‐chairs and wrote part of the book.