Abstract This paper investigates bilingual educational, and evidence that both supports and undermines specific didactic methods. Problems with bilingual education are also be addressed. Special attention is paid to bilingual immersion as a language acquisition tool, and is compared with other bilingual education methods. Additionally, the discussion addresses key issues regarding the failures and problems in bilingual education in the state of California.
Methods in Bilingual Education Problems and Failures in Bilingual Education Conclusions
From the Paper "There is significant need for effective methods in the teaching of America's growing number of English learners, students who must learn English as a second language. Estimates cite 4.6 million English learners in American public schools in 2000-2001 (Rodriguez, & Higgins 2005). Immense effort and research has addressed this problem, yet many students still struggle. The current status of English learner debate centers on the positive and negative aspects of bilingual programs versus programs that do not use a student's native language in instruction. To be considered a bilingual program, a method must incorporate both the English language and native language of the student into the school instruction. Bilingual programs come in many forms, with varying levels of native language use and English use. Depending on implementation methods and structure, bilingual programs also have varying levels of success."
Tags: Bilingual, education, Hispanics, United, States, elementary, education
Abstract This paper looks at the problems and challenges faced by the American educational system. Although America may want to use its schools to create an egalitarian society where everyone has a chance to advance him or herself, it is still a long way from reaching that point. The paper shows that American schools reflect the country's social structure and that the problems its society faces are reflected in its public schools. The paper uses the 'Social Disorganization' theory to look at social and educationalproblems in the United States, how they interact with each other and how these problems come to a head in American schools. The paper also explores possible solutions, including a change in bureaucratic structure and improved teacher training.
From the Paper "Nevertheless, researchers do see disparities, especially when comparing the performance of minorities to the performance of white students. While many more students graduate from high school now than did at the middle of the 20th century, blacks still drop out at twice the rate of whites (Roscigno, 1998). Since just the fact of being black or white cannot explain such differences between groups, social factors have been considered. Multiple researchers have demonstrated a strong correlation between family income and the achievement of the children in the family (Roscigno, 1998). This is reflected in racial statistics because minority groups tend to earn less money than whites as a group."
Abstract This paper employs a variety of classical and modern resources (Tocqueville, Yeats, Bell Curve, Addison, Levine) to prove that America's educationalproblems (confirmed by various statistics) are a serious problem. Each of the reasons are strenuously examined with original interpretation of all sources.
Tags: american, and, decline, education, end, for, nearing, of, reasons
A practicum proposal presented to programs for Higher Education in partial fulfillment of the requirements or the degree of Doctor of Education. Research conducted for teacher training in the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
Abstract The author examines the the instructional methods used to train teachers, specifically, Palestinian teachers. The author has determined that although the UNRWA proclaims that the problem-solving approach is the best method, it has not evaluated whether the problem-solving approach produces the same or superior effects to the traditional lecture approach for training for this particular group. The author, thus, designs and proposes a method of research to answer whether student achievement on the comprehensive final examination in the UNRWA's "Teaching Methods" course will significantly differ depending upon whether students were taught using the problem-solving approach or taught using the traditional lecture approach.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Background
Nature of the Problem Purpose of the Study
Significance to the Institution
Review of Related Literature
Overview
Theory of Self-Directed Learning
The Problem-solving Approach
Nature of the Approach
Research Investigating The Problem-solving Approach
Effects of the Problem-Solving Approach
Effectiveness of the Problem-solving-Approach
Factors That Maximize The Problem-Solving Approach
Methodological Considerations
Summary
Relationship to the Seminar
Research Questions
Research Hypothesis
Definitions of Terms
Methodology and Procedures
Design
Description of the Instrument
Procedures
Data Analysis
Assumptions
Limitations
Expectations
Anticipated Benefits
Improvement of the Educational Process
References
From the Paper "Reluctance to deviate from traditional teaching methods and to learn and incorporate a new teaching philosophy and practices is a major obstacle to adoption of the problem-solving approach to teaching. Garton and Cano (1996) found that cooperating student agriculture teachers devoted less than 20 percent of instructional time to a problem-solving approach to teaching. Classroom teachers cooperating with the study spend most of their time on maintaining subject-matter interest; student teachers focused primarily on seeking information to resolve the problem."
Abstract The paper deals at length with the problem of homeless persons and states that while the homeless population is increasing steadily, the number of children amongst this population has seen the steepest incline. The paper reports that the Institute for Children and Poverty has shown that nearly millions of adolescents are experiencing homelessness. This staggering number means that nearly 2% of all children and approximately 10% of all poor children in America are presently homeless. The paper deals extensively with the problem of educating homeless children by exploring the strategies and tactics put forward by the McKinney-Vento Act in educating homeless children.
Outline:
Introduction
Background of the Study
Current Issues in Government Policies
Statement of the Problem Significance of the Study
Purpose of the Study
Research Questions
Methodology
Research Method and Design
Data Collection
Data Evaluation
Definitions of Homelessness and Problems Associated with the Definition
The Educational Rights of Homeless Children
Strategies Implemented
Conclusion and Discussion
From the Paper "As mentioned above, during the 1970's the streets of America, during the night, were increasingly being occupied by adults and children alike for spending their nights. This phenomenon was exposed by the media and the social advocates along with the policy makers chipped in to being a social change particularly in the education sector. However, research shows that more people, particularly families with small children, are homeless today than they were in the 1970's and the number is steeply rising (Hafetz, 2003). Burt (2001) argued that the while the country progressed economically all through the 1990's, the trickle down affect of this progress could not be seen. In fact, on the contrary, the housing industry got more pressure, which resulted in the increased rents and lack of affordable housing (Burt, 2001). Therefore, homelessness has once again got the front page attention from the media. "
Abstract This paper is a dissertation on the necessity for education in a democratic society. It deals with the problems ignorance can cause with regard to freedom and some possible explanations for these current problems.
From the paper:
"The link between education and democracy is well documented. Philosophers from the likes of Plato to Booker Washington to the late John Dewey as well as many others understood this point well. As Dewey begins a chapter in his book, Problems of Men, ?It is obvious that the relationship between democracy and education is a reciprocal one, a mutual one, and vitally so.?(34). Dewey goes on to further drive home the point that with liberty lies a tremendous responsibility, "Do you want to be a free human being standing on your own feet, accepting the responsibilities, the duties that go with that position as an effective member of society"? (34). It is these duties that are neglected in a civilization unlearned. Democracy in a true form is likely impossible, however the continuation and evolution of a democratic society requires informed involvement from all of the population. Effective involvement requires at least moderate thinking ability and knowledge."
Abstract In this article, the writer looks at the problems concerning education in the early childhood years. The writer discusses the importance of the involvement of the parents in a child's early education. Further, the writer points out the difficulty in ensuring such parental involvement. The writer also notes the importance of the involvement of the community at this stage in the child's life.
From the Paper ""The earliest years of a child's life are keys to predicting ultimate success in school and life". While early education is important to a child's success for the future, a major problem in early education is getting parents involved in their child's education. Another important factor in early childhood education is the community being involved in the lives of these small children. The two major problems in childhood problems in early childhood education are lack of parental involvement and lack of community involvement. While many politicians are discussing cutting back on educational funds such as head start, it is important to look at the success of early childhood educational programs and how these have affected the lives of adults who have attended these programs. It is also important to know why early childhood education is important."
Abstract The paper relates the history of education for African-Americans and explores problems relating to education legislation. The paper looks at present education issues and concerns for African-American students and examines statistics relating to their drop-out rates. The paper concludes that there has been progress, to a degree, in educational attainment of the aspirations of African-American students, although there are still barriers.
Outline:
Introduction
History of Education for African Americans
Noted Problems Relating to Education Legislation
Present Education Issues and Concerns for African-American Students
Statistics Relating to Drop-out Rates of African-Americans
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper "The work of Allen and Jewell (2002) states that: "...the Black struggle for higher education is an apt metaphor for the larger Black struggles for citizenship, self-determination and personhood in this society." The historical account of the African American race in obtaining access to higher education in the United States is characterized by many ups and downs. The aspirations of the African American individual of attaining higher education have been historically unattained due to existing barriers to higher education of Black individuals."
Abstract This paper discusses the views of writer and educator Jonathan Kozol - that the United States intentionally funds its public education system in an undemocratic way that is designed to protect the children of the wealthy from competition from the poor. The author believes that because of Kozol's advocation, there might be a shift in the current education funding paradigm which will allow equitable education across the nation, in good neighborhoods and in bad. The paper examines current problems of the education funding in the United States and proposes several ways to realize Kozol's ideals.
Outline:
Introduction
Current Paradigm
Problem Analysis
Changing Memes
Conclusion
From the Paper "A paradigm shift may be in our future, and it concerns funding for our children's' education. At the forefront of this movement is Jonathan Kozol, a writer and educator who has made note of the inequality of education available to people of differing economic statuses in the United States. This shift will, strangely, allow us to approach the democracy exhibited by other developed Western nations, who do not allow children to be academically punished because of the neighborhood in which they live"
This paper discusses Paulo Freire's book, ?The 'Banking' Concept of Education?, the classroom situation in which the student must only comprehend the thoughts of the teacher.
Abstract This paper relates that Freire suggests that a method to counter "banking" education is a ?problem-posing? education, or cooperative cognition. The paper states that, within the ?problem-posing? method, the authoritative power becomes useless; arguments that must be taken on faith become irrelevant. The author states that he does not support Freire's position because he does not feel that he is being dehumanized in the lectures, nor are teachers his oppressors.
From the Paper "The aspect of time deserves more attention in the discussion of the "problem-posing" method. That which may seem quick and efficient in the short-term may prove to be tedious and sorely inefficient in the long-term. A teacher that expresses something she holds to be true to a group is quick and easy. It can be argued that more topics are addressed, but how much is retained by the receptacles of this quick and easy method? Letting the discovery occur naturally, will inherently take much longer with respect to time, but how much of this will be held in the continual cognition of the being? In addition, a method of examination would be equally or more difficult to create for this continuously changing knowledge acquisition. This increase in the expectations of the teacher might compensate for the lesser role in the class group setting. Nothing can be created in advance that will continue to be concrete over time."
Abstract This paper looks at whether students are afforded equal education opportunities in America. The writer examines the problems of those not receiving an adequate education and discusses how this will affect their future employment opportunities. In this article, the writer also explores how this problem can be rectified.
From the Paper "In Brown v Topeka Board of Education in the Supreme Court ruled that education must be equal for all students, but sadly that is far from true today. As America moves from an industrial society into a post-industrial one, the skills needed to find work and to have the opportunities for a successful career require education, but education of a different sort than was provided in the past. Today is the age of technology and the communications age. Those who cannot communicate fluently will be left far behind. Sadly ... "
Abstract This paper presents a research proposal to examine physical education instruction in the elementary school and determine the benefits derived from this instruction. The proposal posits the following hypotheses: : H1: Physical activity, when initiated during the elementary school-age years results in ongoing physical activity throughout the life of the individual thereby promoting that individual's health status in adulthood. H2: Physical Education classes in elementary schools offers a unique potential for instructors in elementary schools to tap into other less utilized dimensions of learning that can be tapped through physical and active learning processes. H3: Physical Education classes in elementary school improves the student's emotional and mental health thereby providing improvement to the student's physical health as well.
Outline:
Purpose
Statement Of The Problem Hypotheses
Research Objectives
Limitations
Introduction
Statement Of Purpose
Methodology
Brief Review Of Literature
Findings
Recommendations
From the Paper "To otherwise conduct such a study would require that the study be longitudinal in nature and would further require that the study be conducted on a grand scale. However, the methodology chosen in this study is one in which many years of study conducted with thousands of participants and through various methodologies may be reviewed and those findings reported in a synthesis of the literature. Limitations in this study will be those relating to the various differences in research methods used in the studies that this work will report in its' findings."
Tags: providing, improvement, longitudinal, in, nature, problems, weight
Abstract This paper looks at the many social issues and pressures that teenagers (and often younger children) need to face in a contemporary American school system.The problems examined are teen pregnancy, violence, gangsterism, drug and alcohol addiction, suicide and delinquency. The writer looks at different coping methods the students can use and focuses on the strategies taken by staff and teachers to assist the students. The paper also looks at how these social problems effect a child's educational experience.
From the Paper "In order for a teacher to overcome these deterrents to learning, he or she must show genuine caring for the student and get the student to become an active learner, rather than a passive observer who watches the teacher recite a lesson.
"There is much room for change in our school system, according to Lawrence Steinberg, author of Beyond the Classroom: Why School Reform Has Failed and What Parents Need to Do. In this work, Steinberg claims disengagement kicks in as early as 7th grade, when the possibility of the six critical problems taking hold of students becomes a reality."
Tags:education, sex, alcohol, addiction, gangster, teacher, society, suicide, care, coaching
Abstract This paper examines some of the ways to teach statistics that will best overcome some of the main problems that students encounter while learning statistics and offers solutions to these problems.
From the Paper "Students do not normally encounter statistics until they are in college--at least not on any kind of practicable level--unless they are in extremely advanced mathematics classes at their high school. Even so, not every high school offers statistics as a course, while almost every college does. Teaching and learning statistics is problematic for most college students and teachers because to learn and understand statistics, it is necessary to first have a grasp of some of the properties and features of higher mathematics. Many college students do not have these skills upon entering college, and many professors assume that they do have these skills when beginning to teach a statistics course."
A review of David Tyack's "The One Best System" discussing school reform as it pertains to the centralized educational system from the beginning of the century.
Abstract The first part of the paper deals in depth with two of Tyack's arguments on school reform prior to the establishment of a centralized educational system in the United States: The social evolution argument and the balance-of-power argument. It goes through them in four distinct ways: by showing that educational policy is in turmoil, by questioning the need for reform, by concentrating on differentiating policy implications, and by examining varied policy outcomes. The second part of the paper follows the guidelines established by the first, but focuses on modern educationalproblems, rather than the problematics of the centralized educational system. The paper concludes that the educational crisis in the U.S. is not so much the result of bad public school education as it is the result of the inability to reach a compromise on the mode of education; that social and economic factors require diverse models of teaching; that societal value shifts bring about school policy changes.
From the Paper "In "The One Best System", David Tyack focuses on the origins of schooling in America and the emergence of mass education. He starts with an analysis of the problems of rural education during the 19th century and presents his readers with an explanation of how the changing nature of religious, moral, and secular institutions in urban areas affected the institutionalization of educational practices. From there on, he traces the development of the idea of "the one best system", and how differing political interests came together to form a consensus on future educational policies. The main questions he answers include: which were the forces that wanted to centralize the control of public schools and why, what were the arguments of the opposition, how school structure changed as the result of centralization, and why the system ultimately failed to address the needs of the masses."
