Using digital technology to enhance formative assessment in mathematics classrooms

In this paper, which is based on research from the EU-funded project Improving Progress through Formative Assessment in Science and Mathematics Education, we explore how iPads are used within formative assessment processes by six mathematics teachers and their classes in two secondary comprehensive schools in the Midlands of England. A design research approach is first used to develop and trial six lessons in which iPads are used in different ways within formative assessment processes. Through lesson observations, video analysis and teacher interviews we then examine how iPad technology contributes to these processes, the functions it performs and the distribution of activity between the main actors (teacher, technology and student). An analytic approach is developed which captures the interactions in visual representations, showing how the technology is often used as a form of communication but also performs more active functions which affect the role taken by the teacher in formative processes. The study offers insight into ways in which iPad technology contributes to effective student learning through formative assessment and introduces an analytic approach that may be useful for further studies.     

Hyperactive children's underuse of learning time: correction by stimulant treatment

This study investigates the effects of methylphenidate (Ritalin) on hyperactive children's performance on a paired-associate learning task under 3 presentation rates (4, 8, and 12 sec per item). The total-time hypothesis states that a fixed amount of time is necessary to learn a fixed amount of material, regardless of the number of trials into which that time is divided. In a double-blind crossover design, the total-time hypothesis was supported by performance in a drug state, but not by performance in a placebo state, where slower presentation rates were not utilized effectively. These results are discussed in terms of inattention in the placebo state and improved attention and use of learning time in the drug state. The methodology presented is suggested as a means of assessing attentional deficits as well as providing a diagnostic procedure for objectively evaluating the appropriateness of stimulant treatment for children referred for symptoms of hyperactivity.     

What is the impact on six underachieving year 4 children's choice of language and development of character when ‘writing in role’?

This study examines the impact that the ‘writing in role’ drama strategy has upon underachieving year 4 children's writing. The findings draw upon observations during the activities, group interviews with the sample group and analysis of children's writing. The study shows that children have positive attitudes towards the ‘writing in role’ strategy and an increased motivation to write. Technical aspects of writing were improved which developed interesting and flourishing pieces of creative writing.     

Locating mathematics within post-16 vocational education in England

The political importance of mathematics in post-16 education is clear. Far less clear is how mathematics does and should relate to vocational education. Successive mathematics curricula (e.g. core skills, key skills) have been developed in England with vocational learners in mind. Meanwhile, general mathematics qualifications remain largely disconnected from vocational learning. Following a brief historical survey of mathematics within vocational education, the paper presents findings from a nested case study of student groups in three large Further Education colleges in England. The primary unit of analysis herein is student groups learning Functional Mathematics in two vocational areas: construction and hairdressing. We show how approaches to organising teaching, developing connected curricula and classroom pedagogy tend to isolate or integrate mathematics from/with the vocational experience. Integrated approaches are shown to impact positively on student engagement and attitudes to learning mathematics. The paper concludes by discussing the potential impact of academic qualifications displacing vocationally relevant mathematics.     

Computer-assisted and traditional psychological assessment of elementary-school-aged children

Computer-assisted psychological assessment was evaluated as a possible alternative to traditional assessment methods. Forty gifted children and forty behavior problem children were administered the State Anxiety and FIRO-BC personality inventories. Half from each group were tested using a cathode ray tube computer terminal while the others were given standard written forms of the tests. All children were retested at a mean interval of 1 week using the same procedures. Test—retest correlations were significant for all six FIRO-BC personality scales regardless of assessment method. Time required to administer and score the inventories was significantly reduced by the computer procedure. While the children's initial perceptions of computers were generally favorable, the perceptions of those children who received the computerized tests significantly increased. Measures of mean state anxiety were uniform with all groups showing significant decreases from first to second testing sessions. These findings suggested that interactive computer assessment may provide a viable alternative to traditional assessment methods with children.     

传统中国的复仇与法律(续)

中国早期经典已强调了复仇道德、政府角色、复仇合法性以及尚未成熟的仲裁形式。唐宋时期，开始在有限的法律结构中重建复仇法律。明清时期，注意“私和”与“解救”法规的严密化。复仇与长期敌对有区别。封建社会晚期，复仇仍被视为高尚而道德的行为。     

Taxonomic separation of attention deficit disorders and developmental reading disorders

This investigation compared the behavior ratings and psychometric profiles of children with attention deficit disorders (ADD) and children with developmental reading disorders (DRD). ADD children showed no qualitative reading or spelling problems, although they were slightly behind expected levels of academic achievement. DRD children were significantly more impaired in academic attainment and showed evidence of qualitative disturbances in reading and spelling. DRD subjects did not differ from control subjects on ratings of hyperactivity, which was one of the defining variables of the ADD group. This evidence is interpreted as adding to a growing testimony that indicates that ADD and DRD are distinctly separate groups of disorders.