Over the last 250 years, the global capitalist system has been responsible for rapid economic growth and technological change. The consequent increase in production of an ever-changing and expanding range of products and services has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty and deprivation. This book suggests, however, that the primary purpose of current production and distribution is not to satisfy human needs but to create profit for the owners of capital that in turn has devastating consequences for the environment and for vulnerable people. Multidisciplinary in perspective, contributors to this volume addresses issues of inequality which affect both developed and developing countries. While they are concerned with the framework of income distribution they also explore the wider dynamics of capitalist systems of production and consumption and examine the dimensions of inequality from both an economic and socio/cultural perspective. The book has three key themes: relations between technologies, inequalities and exploitation; issues surrounding technologies and development; and the nature of technologies and their associated opportunities in the face of the future. That future is contested, and in the present context of persistent inequalities, a debate about where we might be going and how we might get there is crucial. This book makes a trenchant and challenging contribution to this debate.

In the second edition of the highly successful resource Play Matters, author Kathy Walker demonstrates the key principles of the 'Walker Learning Approach'/Australian Developmental Curriculum that she has developed over 15 years of observation, participation, and presentation in schools and child care centers across Australia. Play Matters continues to provide practical guidance and innovative strategies for teachers working with young children, from Preschool to Grade 2, through a unique balance of explicit instruction in literacy and numeracy skills and personalized, explorative learning. The book promotes the active engagement of all young children, with an enhanced focus on children from diverse backgrounds, as well as children with specific needs. Play Matters is replete with pedagogical features to support implementation in any educational setting. It contains a full color section of photographs, and an updated CD-ROM with template documents for planning, assessment, and reporting activities. Organizational ideas and resources are provided, along with a comprehensive bibliography for further reference and advice.

Over the last 250 years, the global capitalist system has been responsible for rapid economic growth and technological change. The consequent increase in production of an ever-changing and expanding range of products and services has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of poverty and deprivation. This book suggests, however, that the primary purpose of current production and distribution is not to satisfy human needs but to create profit for the owners of capital that in turn has devastating consequences for the environment and for vulnerable people. Multidisciplinary in perspective, contributors to this volume addresses issues of inequality which affect both developed and developing countries. While they are concerned with the framework of income distribution they also explore the wider dynamics of capitalist systems of production and consumption and examine the dimensions of inequality from both an economic and socio/cultural perspective. The book has three key themes: relations between technologies, inequalities and exploitation; issues surrounding technologies and development; and the nature of technologies and their associated opportunities in the face of the future. That future is contested, and in the present context of persistent inequalities, a debate about where we might be going and how we might get there is crucial. This book makes a trenchant and challenging contribution to this debate.

Following the success of Play Matters - with its action-based focus on Australia's Preschool to Grade 2 - authors Kathy Walker and Shona Bass have developed the next stage of the 'Walker Learning Approach'/Australian Developmental Curriculum, for implementation with primary school students from Grades 3 to Grade 6. Engagement Matters provides a step-by-step, practical guide for teachers that emphasizes student engagement, empowerment, and achievement, and importantly, personalized learning. The transition from Grade 2 into the middle and upper primary years is made seamless through the provision of tips, activities, and explanatory theory. The processes and tools outlined in this informative and inspiring resource will equip schools with the capacity to actively engage students in their learning across all subject areas and in diverse learning contexts. In so doing, Engagement Matters effectively lays the foundations for ongoing engagement and successful learning throughout school life and beyond.

"Because of You" is a revealing venture in haiku, with tanka, cinquaine, and lantern added for good measure. all four styles of poetry are considered to have originated in japan, and all adhere to brevity, tight structure, and lend themselves to thoughtful reflection. however, in this collection of poetry, the haiku, based on the buddhist philosophy of brevity and simplicity is the predominant voice. as you read the this collection of haiku that touches, dives into, and sometimes, unearths the emotional drama and subtleties of relationships, allow yourself the freedom to feel, imagine and enjoy. and, it is okay to do so in a coffee or doughnut shop somewhere, on the train or bus, or wherever else you find that comfortable place to be. above all, read, be at peace, and enjoy.