Middle+School

-submitted by Ann Nixon and Desiree Allen Using survey data from 2,200 middle school students from diverse communities across the United States, the findings indicate many important motivational benefits of learner-centered practices for young adolescents. Specifically, students reported more positive forms of motivation and greater academic engagement when they perceived their teachers were using learner-centered practices that involve caring, establishing higher order thinking, honoring student voices, and adapting instruction to individual needs. Suggestions for creating a learner-centered middle school classroom are highlighted. -submitted by Ann Nixon and Desiree Allen The major purpose of this case study was to document the classroom management beliefs and practices of three teachers reputed to implement student-centered instruction and to examine the relationship between their instructional and managerial approaches. All three teachers' approaches reflected the principles of "good classroom management" derived from studies conducted in the 1960's and 1970's in traditional transmission classrooms.

=__Math__= -submitted by Ann Nixon and Desiree Allen The professional development program model presented in this paper aimed at deepening teachers' conceptual understanding of mathematics, content knowledge, and exposing them to innovative and creative instructional approaches. The four components of the program were the following: systemic support, knowledge building workshops, classroom implementation and application, and building a professional community.

=__Technology__= -submitted by Ann Nixon and Desiree Allen With new technology, there are concerns with interactive technology being used in art classes. Results show students have positive feedback with their learning experiences in a technologically based art class.

=__Homework__= -submitted by Ann Nixon and Desiree Allen Students, teachers, counselors, and parents are all important in determining the degree to which homework is effective in meeting its goals. This article describes a conceptual homework model, assessing homework, and homework motivation. Strategies included.

=**__Art__**= -submitted by Desiree Allen With new technology, there are concerns with interactive technology being used in art classes. Results show students have positive feedback with their learning experiences in a technologically based art class.