On the Operationalisation of Conceptions of Learning in Higher Education and Their Association with Students’ Knowledge and Experiences of Their Learning

Conceptions of learning, as well as other associated aspects of prior knowledge, are theoretically important factors in influencing the manner in which the content and context of learning are engaged. The present study reports on: (a) the operationalisation of some of these factors aimed at isolating sources of explanatory variation that can be used for modelling purposes; and (b) a conservative exploration of the discriminatory power of, and exhibited patterns of association between, such sources of variation as have been isolated. Based on a conservative analytical approach, the results of the present study do not support a single clearly defined empirical model of conceptions of learning and associated constructs. Instead, there is consistent evidence that underlying empirical structures appear to be sensitive to the response context and other factors.     

What is successful adaptation of lesson study in the US?

This paper features a case study of one US K-8 school district pioneering the use of “lesson study,” a teacher professional development approach adapted from Japan. The case explores events that occurred in the district over more than 4 years (Spring 2000–Fall 2004) as lesson study spread nationally and within the district. We document four categories of changes that occurred in the district’s lesson study approach, and describe some of the early consequences of these changes as well as conditions that enabled the changes to occur. We argue that this case illustrates much of what we would hope to see in a maturing lesson study effort, and conclude that other US sites may need to go through similar changes, organize similar supports, and persist in their learning about lesson study to successfully adapt this model to their local contexts.     

Developmental Pathways of Emotion Regulation in Childhood: A Neuropsychological Perspective

This article presents a model featuring two types of emotion regulation—reactive and deliberate—and discusses the developmental trajectory of both types. We argue that the later-developing capacity for deliberate control builds on and coevolves with earlier-developing reactive control. Findings from the field of developmental neuroscience are mapped onto this model. The focus is on specific neural "hubs," such as the anterior cingulate cortex and the orbitofrontal cortex, which serve as epicenters for the coupling of cortical and subcortical processes. We propose that an increasing coordination between brain regions during emotional situations subserves more effective and efficient regulation with development. This framework can be used to explain different developmental pathways of regulatory styles that can, for example, lead to aggressive versus anxious modes of emotion regulation. The implications of this framework can help guide educational policy by supporting prevention and intervention strategies for children exhibiting difficulties with emotion regulation.     

Establishing Criteria for High Ability versus Selective Admission to Gifted Programs: Implications for Policy and Practice

Admission to gifted programs involves identification, which entails theories of intelligence. Unfortunately, limited resources and space availability often take precedence over theory and educational philosophy in the admission process. Three selective gifted programs are used as examples of how theories of intelligence, driven by individual program philosophies, can be used as bases of admission within the practical limitations of each. The Cisco A. Carter Gifted Early Education Program identifies inner-city preschoolers for both general intelligence and specific skills. The Julliard Pre-College Program selects participants based on a specific skill. Hunter College Elementary School screens for general intellectual giftedness. Issues such as age of identification, underrepresented populations, and gifted children with diverse abilities and needs also are addressed.     

Focusing Students: Three Approaches for Learning Through Evaluation

Three professors share their solutions to the problem of focusing students on the assessments required in their classes, lest specification charts show students the specific concepts, principles, and problems that will be included on multiple choice tests. Rubrics developed for assigned work are demonstrated as ways to increase student expectations and to direct their explorations. Negotiated rubrics are used to involve students in the setting of standards for work in their own classes. Advantages for students and professors in using the methods are offered.     

Football supporters' perceptions of their role in the home advantage

Football fans' views on their role in the home advantage were obtained by placing links to an internet questionnaire on supporters' websites. Altogether, 461 fans from clubs which had been promoted, relegated or unchanged in the past season of the English football leagues rated crowd support as significantly more influential than familiarity, travel, territoriality and referee bias in contributing to the home advantage. Fans felt responsible for inspiring their team to victory, took credit for distracting opponents, and believed that they could influence officials into making decisions in their team's favour. However, they did not accept personal blame for poor results. No effects for gender, age or the team's outcome in the promotion/relegation battle emerged, though season ticket holders were more extreme in their feelings of responsibility overall. Furthermore, it was suggested that mechanisms such as the perception of being superior to rivals can encourage fans to retain their allegiance to their teams, even when outcomes are disappointing. Indeed, affiliation may become so incorporated into self-identity that supporters may not have the option of abandoning their team, but instead perceive a reciprocal relationship in which both they and the team are expected to do their best to achieve success.