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Like a game of poker, school programs' success can hinge on principals going 'all in'

A new study published by the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Virginia found that school principals' level of enthusiasm and support plays a critical role in teachers' ability to successfully implement school programs. Without principal support, teachers view administrators as a hindrance to program success, while enthusi...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPrevention Science·DateNov 15, 2012

Rethinking reading

A recent study published in Developmental Psychology found that variation in words, rather than similarity, may help early readers learn the rules of phonics more effectively. The study showed that students exposed to varied practice outperformed those with similar word lists, particularly among struggling learners.

SourceUniversity of Iowa·JournalDevelopmental Psychology·DateNov 1, 2012

Drivers' ed for robots

A team led by University of Delaware researchers aims to create a robot that can drive vehicles, navigate environments, use tools, and manipulate equipment in disaster relief scenarios. The robot will focus on key tasks such as getting into and out of vehicles, driving factoring in difficult conditions.

Get with the computer program

A pan-Quebec study found that students prefer engaging lectures over targeted tweets, while instructors were more comfortable with emails than social media. The research suggests that curriculum design and professional development should prioritize interactive activities over technology integration.

A national mental health policy for Uganda

The Ugandan government has created a comprehensive national mental health policy aimed at addressing the country's growing mental health crisis. The policy provides guidelines for mental health care and services, including hospitalization, treatment, and community-based interventions.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateOct 2, 2012

Middle-class children: Squeaky wheels in training

A study by Indiana University sociologist Jessica McCrory Calarco found that middle-class parents encourage their children to ask questions and seek help, while working-class parents coach them to avoid problems. This difference in parenting approaches can impact children's ability to interact with institutions later in life.

Teaching autistic teens to cope

A UCLA program has proven effective in teaching social skills to high-functioning autistic teens, leading to improved relationships and social functioning. The PEERS clinic's 14-week program helps teens develop critical skills needed to make and keep friends, resulting in fewer problem behaviors and greater understanding of social skills.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateJun 12, 2012

U of I study: Teachers may need training to respond to children's emotions

A University of Illinois study found that teachers often lack training on supporting young children's emotional regulation skills. The researchers suggest that teacher training programs should include strategies for modeling and managing challenging emotional moments in the classroom. By teaching children how to manage their emotions, ...

Radiology programs would benefit from incorporating tablet devices into education of residents

A multi-institutional survey study found that 74% of radiology residents own smartphones and 37% own tablet devices, with 81% believing they would spend more time learning if provided with a tablet device. Tablet technology has the potential to enhance radiology education by providing more study time.

SourceAmerican College of Radiology·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateJun 1, 2012

$3.5 million grant helps teachers help students

A new study will test a professional development program called CARE for Teachers, which aims to enhance teachers' social and emotional competence. The program provides emotion skills instruction, mindfulness practices, and caring techniques to promote empathy and compassion in the classroom.