Critical Thinking for Better Learning shifts the focus from teaching to learning and from presenting information to creating challenges that teach students how to think in your discipline. The shift derives from three new insights from cognitive science: that we think by analogy, that we learn best when we process clear, focused sources and develop our own theories about our findings, and that there are key threshold concepts that define the discipline and make it attractive to young practitioners. This book explains each of these insights in direct, clear language, with examples of how to implement them in your own classroom.

This book addresses central questions regarding parental involvement across European educational systems; exploring the commonalities and differences across European countries and the extent to which current policy and practice pertaining to parental involvement is inclusive of diversity. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach that draws from the fields of education, sociology and psychology, it presents a description of the policy context and empirical research on critical perspectives relating to parental involvement. Comprising a rich varied cross-section of national experiences from eleven European countries and the contexts surrounding them, case studies provide insights into parental involvement across Europe and identify challenges in the field. This volume's in-depth approach and comprehensive interrogation of parental involvement across European education systems make it an ideal resource for parents, teachers and academics, researchers and post-graduate students in the fields of education policy and comparative education, as well as teacher educators and policy makers.

Problem Solving for Teaching and Learning explores the importance of problem solving to learning in everyday personal and social contexts. This book is divided into four sections: Setting the scene; Conceptualising problem solving; Teachers' knowledge and beliefs about problem solving; and Fostering students' problem-solving capabilities, allowing readers to gain an insight into the various sub-topics that problem solving in learning and teaching introduce. Drawing together diverse perspectives on problem solving located in a variety of educational settings, this book explores problem solving theory, including its cognitive architecture, as well as attending to its translation into teaching and learning in a range of settings, such as education and social environments. This book also suggests how effective problem-solving activities can be incorporated more explicitly in learning and teaching and examines the benefits of this approach. The ideas developed in Problem Solving for Teaching and Learning will act as a catalyst for transforming practices in teaching, learning, and social engagement in formal and informal educational settings, making this book an essential read for education academics and students specialising in cognitive psychology, educational psychology, and problem solving.

Critical Thinking for Better Learning shifts the focus from teaching to learning and from presenting information to creating challenges that teach students how to think in your discipline. The shift derives from three new insights from cognitive science: that we think by analogy, that we learn best when we process clear, focused sources and develop our own theories about our findings, and that there are key threshold concepts that define the discipline and make it attractive to young practitioners. This book explains each of these insights in direct, clear language, with examples of how to implement them in your own classroom.

Empowerment Starts Here covers an experimental approach to social change within urban communities by way of seven distinct principles for student empowerment. Turning classroom methods into a school model, Preparatory School for Global Leadership was the first to experience student empowerment at a school-wide level. This book provides insight on how educators can increase the efficacy and achievement of urban youth. Angela Dye shares instructional methodologies and stories to help the reader develop an intimate understanding of the empowerment principles in action. Through these principles and methods, individuals can increase their capacity to combat the psychological, social, and political challenges associated with student achievement and real school reform.

Transformative approaches to teaching and learning have become ubiquitous in education today. Researchers, practitioners and commentators alike often claim that a truly worthwhile education should transform learners in a profound and enduring way. But what exactly does it mean to be so transformed? What should teachers be transforming students into? Should they really attempt to transform students at all? The Transformative Classroom engages with these questions left open by the vast discussion of transformative education, providing a synthetic overview and critique of some of the most influential approaches today. In doing so, the book offers a new theory of transformative education that focuses on awakening and facilitating students' aspiration. Drawing on important insights from ethics, psychology, and the philosophy of education, the book provides both conceptual clarity and concrete practical guidance to teachers who hope to create a transformative classroom. This book will be of great interest for academics, K-12 teachers, researchers and students in the fields of curriculum and instruction, teaching and learning, adult education, social justice education, educational theory and philosophy of education.

This monograph is to investigate practical applications and contributions of self-regulated learning (SRL) to second/foreign language (L2) writing from sociocognitive and sociocultural perspectives. It showcases a comprehensive and updated review of conceptual and methodological issues of SRL and the state-of-the-art research on its applications to L2 learning and teaching. This volume further elaborates the design and results of a large-scale project which conducts observational and intervention studies investigating SRL strategies in L2 writing. This book reveals that a cross-disciplinary understanding of SRL strategies plays a crucial role in advancing theoretical functions of SRL and in extending its applications to L2 education in general, and L2 writing in particular. This book makes significant contributions to developing and validating new conceptual frameworks and tools for evaluating multidimensional structures of SRL strategies and self-efficacy in L2 writing; elucidating the interplay of personal, behavioral, environmental and psychological factors with SRL strategies and writing performance; and presenting an effective self-regulation instructional model for nurturing L2 learners' motivation and confidence to strategize, reflect and succeed in writing. Teng has established herself as one of the prominent scholars in the discussion of self-regulated learning strategies. Her contribution to the fields of L2 writing and strategic learning are undeniable. This monograph is an excellent showing of how her endeavors to bring established theories from educational psychology to applied writing research have progressed over a number of methodologically rigorous studies. It should be required reading for anyone with an interest in cultivating strategic writers not only in the Chinese context but worldwide. Nathan Thomas, UCL Institute of Education

"Almost every day you can read somewhere that a fundamental change is needed in schools and the education system..." Dr M Gloeckler. - How do we accompany and support the development of children and adolescents so that they can be motivated to face the challenges ahead? - What skills are needed to solve the global problems of social injustice and deal with the consequences of the ecological economic crisis creatively? - What must the education system be like, that it prepares us as adults to be less moulded to existing conditions and therefore better able to see what needs to be changed for the future? - Which activities in the classroom or necessary so that initiative and entrepreneurial will can develop for the realisation of new ideas? - What does an age-appropriate media education look like, for achieving maturity and competence in working with information technology? Regardless of what problem you are considering: what is needed are courage and confidence, health and a joy for life. But how can school and parental home create the conditions for these qualities to develop? In view of the increasing life expectancy worldwide this is an urgent need, because a healthy physical emotional spiritual maturation is the best prerequisite for a creative life into old age. This book is a plea for radically aligning upbringing and education with what is needed for the healthy development and well-being of children and adolescents - and not aligning at the wrong time with performance goals coming from business and government policy. The author, a paediatrician with many decades of experience, begins with a consideration of what is meant by age appropriate instruction, delving into a detailed discussion of the child as he or she grows through different stages of development, and how the child will grow in health, well-being and resilience if upbringing and education are aware of and an sync with this. As an example, the experiences of Waldorf schools are examined, looking in detail at the growth in each year of childhood and adolescence as it pertains to a holistic curriculum which incorporates education of body, soul and spirit. Dr Gloeckler then considers the effects on health and the causes for illness in adult life if age-appropriateness is not taken into account. She concludes with a discussion of teacher health and health engendering principles that can protect against teacher burnout. Education for the Future is a very informative book and will be of interest for educators as well parents who are interested in nurturing health and human potential in children.

Educational Psychology for Learning and Teaching explores the development of the learner over time, the learning process, individual differences in the classroom, as well as educational psychology in contemporary classrooms. The text caters for those who are planning to work with any age range from early childhood to adolescence and beyond. This seventh edition expands on Dynamic Systems Theory, the Information Processing Model and critical thinking around standardised testing. You will be presented with multiple views of learning, rather than just one, prompting you to think critically and develop your own philosophy of learning and teaching, while also drawing on the various theories.

Advanced Methods in Automatic Item Generation is an up-to-date survey of the growing research on automatic item generation (AIG) in today's technology-enhanced educational measurement sector. As test administration procedures increasingly integrate digital media and Internet use, assessment stakeholders-from graduate students to scholars to industry professionals-have numerous opportunities to study and create different types of tests and test items. This comprehensive analysis offers thorough coverage of the theoretical foundations and concepts that define AIG, as well as the practical considerations required to produce and apply large numbers of useful test items.

Advanced Methods in Automatic Item Generation is an up-to-date survey of the growing research on automatic item generation (AIG) in today's technology-enhanced educational measurement sector. As test administration procedures increasingly integrate digital media and Internet use, assessment stakeholders-from graduate students to scholars to industry professionals-have numerous opportunities to study and create different types of tests and test items. This comprehensive analysis offers thorough coverage of the theoretical foundations and concepts that define AIG, as well as the practical considerations required to produce and apply large numbers of useful test items.

This essential text unpacks major transformations in the study of learning and human development and provides evidence for how science can inform innovation in the design of settings, policies, practice, and research to enhance the life path, opportunity and prosperity of every child. The ideas presented provide researchers and educators with a rationale for focusing on the specific pathways and developmental patterns that may lead a specific child, with a specific family, school, and community, to prosper in school and in life. Expanding key published articles and expert commentary, the book explores a profound evolution in thinking that integrates findings from psychology with biology through sociology, education, law, and history with an emphasis on institutionalized inequities and disparate outcomes and how to address them. It points toward possible solutions through an understanding of and addressing the dynamic relations between a child and the contexts within which he or she lives, offering all researchers of human development and education a new way to understand and promote healthy development and learning for diverse, specific youth regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or history of adversity, challenge, or trauma. The book brings together scholars and practitioners from the biological/medical sciences, the social and behavioral sciences, educational science, and fields of law and social and educational policy. It provides an invaluable and unique resource for understanding the bases and status of the new science, and presents a roadmap for progress that will frame progress for at least the next decade and perhaps beyond.

The Classic Edition of this key text highlights seminal work done in the subject of learning by modeling and offers an extensive review of the major theories, edited by one of the most influential psychologists of his generation. In his introductory essay, Bandura identifies the most important controversial issues in the field of observational learning and reviews a large body of research findings, before carefully chosen articles, written by a team of expert contributors, tackle a range of key debates in the field. Topics explored include the role of reinforcement play in observational learning, the scope of modeling influences, the types of people most susceptible to modeling influences, and the relative effectiveness of models presented in live action, in pictorial presentations, or through verbal description. Written in a lively and engaging manner, this book will be of interest to all psychology students interested in psychological modeling, as well as educators and professionals working with children.

The Classic Edition of this key text highlights seminal work done in the subject of learning by modeling and offers an extensive review of the major theories, edited by one of the most influential psychologists of his generation. In his introductory essay, Bandura identifies the most important controversial issues in the field of observational learning and reviews a large body of research findings, before carefully chosen articles, written by a team of expert contributors, tackle a range of key debates in the field. Topics explored include the role of reinforcement play in observational learning, the scope of modeling influences, the types of people most susceptible to modeling influences, and the relative effectiveness of models presented in live action, in pictorial presentations, or through verbal description. Written in a lively and engaging manner, this book will be of interest to all psychology students interested in psychological modeling, as well as educators and professionals working with children.

Learn how to implement a restorative justice approach that reduces suspension and expulsion rates, without compromising school safety and classroom order. Author Dr. Zachary Scott Robbins, who has turned around schools in Boston, Massachusetts, and Las Vegas, Nevada, explores the assumptions that underpin school policies that lead to high rates of suspensions and expulsions, especially for African-American students. He shares his experiences using Restorative Justice Tribunals and Restorative Justice Circles, which strike an effective balance between serving consequences to students who misbehave and providing them with therapeutic wraparound supports. This powerful book will help school leaders avoid discriminating based on race, national origin, or disability; will improve school climate; and will help teachers spend less time on discipline, so they can have more time for instruction and preparing students to graduate.

Learn how to implement a restorative justice approach that reduces suspension and expulsion rates, without compromising school safety and classroom order. Author Dr. Zachary Scott Robbins, who has turned around schools in Boston, Massachusetts, and Las Vegas, Nevada, explores the assumptions that underpin school policies that lead to high rates of suspensions and expulsions, especially for African-American students. He shares his experiences using Restorative Justice Tribunals and Restorative Justice Circles, which strike an effective balance between serving consequences to students who misbehave and providing them with therapeutic wraparound supports. This powerful book will help school leaders avoid discriminating based on race, national origin, or disability; will improve school climate; and will help teachers spend less time on discipline, so they can have more time for instruction and preparing students to graduate.

Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Communication contains research, strategies, and lesson plans that will help increase students' skill level in the 3 Cs: creativity, critical thinking, and communication. The strategies of the 3 Cs renew stale curricula and supports deeper learning of core concepts. This book provides parents and those interested in the education system a glimpse into how schools can be more efficient and effective by saving what works in education.

The most distinctive feature of the Second Edition is its theoretical orientation coupled with a focus on understanding emerging and young adulthood from multiple perspectives. The updated and expanded book offers readers an opportunity to "listen to the voices" of emerging and young adults, parents, and employers, which is key to understanding this particular developmental period. In addition, the case studies provided throughout the book are diverse and detailed. The issues of emerging adulthood are complicated, nuanced, and defy easy characterizations. This book provides an opportunity to debunk many established pernicious stereotypes about emerging and young adults. The presentation of diverse voices and case material serves as a springboard for discussion and engages readers with material depicting emerging adults in the throes of working through developmental challenges characteristic of this period. In addition, the recent economic downturn has created havoc and further instability in the lives of emerging and young adults. The Second Edition focuses on the effects of - as well as possible solutions to - unemployment on emerging and young adults. A new chapter focuses on career experimentation versus career floundering, which is an important distinction. Additional new chapters address the effects of technology as well as depression and anxiety on emerging and young adults. The Second Edition examines emerging and young adulthood within a larger developmental and ecological context. In addition, it ensures that readers are well positioned to understand how the developmental demands of this period intersect with current economic, social, and political realities. It is a must-have resource for developmental, clinical child and school psychologists, rehabilitation counselors and therapists, I/O psychologists, and sociologists as well as for researchers and graduate-level students across these various disciplines.

What happens when teachers are removed from the equation, when we learn by ourselves or with peers? Increasingly rapid change is part of our world today and tomorrow. The need to learn and to adapt is now lifelong and ubiquitous. But are educators and educational institutions preparing today's students for this reality? Educators and institutions choose pedagogic models, design curricula and provide instruction. However, this does not mirror the learning environments that we inhabit outside of formal education, nor does it reflect all our learning time during formal education. This text provides a data-driven picture of the independent learning experience - what occurs in the minds of learners as they negotiate learning tasks without (or with less) guidance and instruction. Cognition, distraction, embodied experience, emotion, and metacognition are central to this learning. Drawing on new empirical data, this volume focuses on university-aged learners. These are the learners who have been through our formal educational systems. Do they learn well in independent settings? Have they been prepared for this? Through an explication of this experience, this volume makes a case for how we can better prepare them for the demands of current and future learning.

The gradual and cumulative sleep deprivation that many students endure not only makes them too tired to focus well but also hampers memory consolidation and motivation. If we really want to improve school performance and graduation rates, we cannot afford to overlook something as basic and critical as sleep. Additionally, if we want to make an impact on both the physical and mental health of individuals in our society (which impacts mortality rates, health care, health insurance rates, the aging process, etc.), we need to begin by educating our youth about the relevance of sleep.

Originally published in 1976 The Self-Teaching Process in Higher Education looks at the major changes that took place in the structure of university education. The book looks at how more emphasis was placed on students to take responsibility for their own progress by becoming self-directed individuals. Traditional methods of university education and some alternative approaches are considered in light of course needs of both students and teachers. Self-teaching is then examined in the overall context of the learning process. The book looks at three case studies of the development and use of self-teaching systems, one for chemical bonding, one for electrical circuits and a third for audio-visual communication.

Original blurb: "The volume of writing on educational topics has increased so prodigiously in recent years that the student is likely to lose himself in a sea of print. This may lead him to opt for the first book that comes to hand, or waste time rifling through half a dozen when a thorough grasp of one key text is all that is needed. Reading lists commonly look impressive, not to say daunting. In fact, the multifarious titles conceal an enormous amount of duplication, an endless raking over of other people's research findings. 'It is a safe bet', writes W. Kenneth Richmond, 'that less than 5 percent of the contents of any new book on education will be in any way original'." This critical bibliography, originally published in 1972, is concerned with the noteworthy books and major official reports that had appeared in the English language during the twenty-five years prior to publication. In his introduction and in the commentaries prefacing each section the author explains the background to the genuinely new departures of the period and describes successive changes in the climate of educational opinion.

This unique book offers compelling stories to help you encounter life with mindfulness and find new vigor on your teaching path. Author Richard Brady, founder of the Mindfulness in Education Network, shares his experiences in a variety of areas, including motivation, agency and freedom, creativity, nurturing presence and community, and more. Following each story, you'll find reflections and contemplations that invite connection with your own experiences and ultimately with action. The book can be used by educators of all levels and subject areas, for personal use and for in-service and pre-service education.

This book presents various paradigms and debates on the diverse issues concerning disability in India from a sociological perspective. It studies disability in the context of its relationship with concepts such as culture/religion, media, literature, and gender to address the inherent failures in challenging prevalent stereotypical and oppressive ideologies. It traces the theological history of disability and studies the present-day universalized social notions of disablement. The volume challenges the predominant perception of disability being only a medical or biological concern and provides deeper insight into the impact of representation through an analysis of the discourse and criteria for 'normalcy' in films from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It analyzes the formation of perspectives through a study of representation of disability in print media, especially children's literature, comics, and graphic novels. The author also discusses the policies and provisions available in India for students with disabilities, especially women who have to also contend with gender inequality and gender-based discrimination. The book will be of interest to scholars and researchers of disability studies, educational psychology, special education, sociology, gender studies, politics of education, and media ecology. It will also be useful for educationalists, NGOs, special educators, disability specialists, media and communication professionals, and counsellors.