Book Description

Introduction to Early Childhood Education, 4E offers readers an updated, research-based understanding of early brain development, emergent curriculum with the Reggio Emilia approach, and early childhood programming in developmentally appropriate practice in addition to evaluating the essentials of early childhood education. Sound theoretical rationales for early childhood education are clearly presented and exemplified by actual experiences of teachers who work with children and provide a realistic framework for students to build upon.Key terms highlighted in the text are defined in the margin for easy reference. Web site links that contain relevant information to chapter topics are also included. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

I got accepted!
Applying to graduate school can be a daunting task - especially if you have not to attended college for a number of years.

How should I present myself? How do my experiences stack up against the competition? What are others saying about themselves?

Asher's book gives you insight into the graduate admissions process like no other book on the market. Asher provides real life examples of successful personal statements. You can see first hand how others succeeded in selling themselves to a prospective program and respond appropriately.

Don't be intimidated by the graduate admission process. Get Asher's book. It worked for me! I got accepted the MBA program of my choice.

A Complete Reference for a Graduate Application!!
This wonderful grad admission essays book not only explains writing an essay for graduate school, but also covers the topics of choosing a program and financing it, planning your application, requesting recommendation letters, and dozens of samples of essays and recommendation letters. Just from looking at the cover, I didn't expect a book with such a large content when I bought it. This book was written as a complete reference for the applicants of the top grad schools. Contains internet links and many helpful examples. I didn't have oppurtunity of viewing the other books in this subject, but I think this book would be adequate by itself to the prospective grad students.

Not for serious b-school applicants
I don't know the process works for applying to other grad school programs, but if you're trying to get into a top tier b-school, this book has little to offer you.

The Best Graduate Admissions Book Out There!
This book is by far the best book out there for those applying to graduate schools in the social sciences (I'm planning on getting my Ph.D. in Anthropology with a specialization in Archaeology). I followed his strategies carefully, and have received multiple funding offers from well known universities. Coming from a family where no one has ever attended graduate school, this book was essential. Definitely buy it now if you're considering applying in the fall!

Helpful & answered questions
This book was helpful in that its beginning chapters dealt with answering questions about the application process and how to sit down and start writing the essay. The example essays were not especially helpful to me, although they did help get the juices flowing and gave me a great idea on an opening paragraph. I can see how they might be very helpful to people writing essays for very competitive programs in the medical, legal, or business worlds. I would recommend this book to people who have questions about the application process and having trouble starting their essays. ... Read more

Book Description

This volume picks up where Practical Math Success leaves off by getting into greater detail on algebra.There are hundreds of practice exercises without a lot of theory or math jargon that provide essential practice in solving algebra problems, especially word problems.Also, learners will discover the practical applicability of algebra skills to real-world (and real work) problems. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great book for anyone taking a tough Algebra course!
I took Algebra over the summer and before taking the class I read this book. It helped me alot. This book gets down to the facts and helps you understand them with practice and examples. For me this book was better than a teacher teaching me Algebra. It was great and helped me alot. I think this should be a required material for all algebra classes; it is better than any textbook. I am taking Geometry next year and I am soon to order Geometry Success in 20 Minutes a Day!

Almost 5 stars
This is indeed a good algebra primer, though not without its failings. First the positive. The authors avoid the use of math jargon and long winded explanations that many other academic types use primarily for self-aggrandizement purposes. There are plenty of practice problems, and the lessons are laid out in a logical order. Now the negative. Some of the more difficult concepts are given little attention, while the very simple are given far too much attention. Also, the book should have been edited more closely (there are several typos and at least one repeated paragraph, but these errors are, for the most part, easily recognizable). I have found that books written by teachers are quite often rubberstamped by the people checking for accuracy, but this book avoids one of the worst failings of teacher/authors--the apparent practice of an author simply handing class notes to a publisher, believing their work is infallible. The authors of this book obviously put much thought into this work, and have succeeded admirably. Oh, by the way, "...In 20 Minutes A Day" means absolutely nothing.

Great Book!
I am planning to go to College as a mature student in Spring and really and truly needed to fully understand Algebra. Well this book is perfect. Step by Step. If you don't understand Algebra after studying this book, you really weren't paying attention.

That and it's actually enjoyable. I also bought learn Geometry in 20 minutes a day. And I also feel the same way about that book.

Saves alot of time and money
This book along with practical algebra have helped me become a great math student.

written from a students perspective
stumbled on this book in a book store after searching for a book for my brother. he just cannot understand the concept well enough because the text he uses in school is written in a fashion that assumes you know some stuff i think a good book is written when an author explains to you like a "dummy" that helps alot i know that because i'm a math tutor. i have spent 6 hours reviewing the style of this book and it really impresses me of how simple and understanding can an author make algebra. I dont quiet remember if there were any big emphasis on exponentials which i think are important, but if i over look this i stand correction. Any way great book it has taught me alot of easier way to do problems. its also great for those who have taken algebra years ago and need a brush up. GO GET IT I'M SERIOUS ... Read more

Book Description

1996 Winner of the Cyril O. Houle World Award for Literature in Adult Education

"[Brookfield] gently demystifies critically reflective learning and teaching with dozens of practical examples from the classroom in different scholarly fields. Lucid, wise, jargon-free, personal and fluently written. Required reading for educators of adults everywhere and for all faculty development programs."
-- Jack Mezirow, emeritus professor of adult education, Teachers College, Columbia University

Building on the insights of his highly acclaimed earlier work, The Skillful Teacher, and applying the principles of adult learning, Brookfield thoughtfully guides teachers through the processes of becoming critically reflective about teaching, confronting the contradictions involved in creating democratic classrooms, and using critical reflection as a tool for ongoing personal and professional development.

... Read more

Reviews (2)

An egregious farrago of nonsense and vacuity.
I shudder to think that this book is being used for teacher training. There is no content. In a sense, the title belabors the obvious: who, after all, does not reflect? A physician, a car mechanic, and a refrigerator repairman all reflect on their craft, and all are problem-solvers in the context of their activity. What, then, does this book say that applies to teachers specifically? Absolutely nothing. The discussion (I use the term loosely) is couched in such broad generalities as to be meaningless. For example,take a section heading such as "Critical Reflection as the Illumination of Power" -- how can this possibly shed light on thinking? The book is replete with such hollow chapter and section titles.

A more fundamental objection that can be levelled against this book -- and others of its ilk -- is related to the question: what does "critical reflection" mean? The premise of the book is that the idea of "critical reflection" can exist without context in, or reference to, a specific recognised discipline (such as, for instance, history or physics). This is absurd; the craft of teaching takes place within the context of a specific discipline with its own methods and problems; teaching itself is not a discipline, no matter how much professors of education may protest otherwise. This attempt to treat the craft of teaching as a discipline ("education"), and to describe "critical reflection" within this pseudo-discipline, is the primary reason why the book lacks any substance whatsoever. There is simply nothing to talk about; "critical reflection" is a bogus notion, both in the abstract and with regard to "education"; hence the vacuous talk of "lenses", "autobiographies", and "critical conversations".

To provide some further elaboration of the vacuity of the notion of context-free "critical-thinking" -- and as such, intimately related to the discussion in the previous paragraph -- the problem is we cannot teach "critical thinking", because there is no such thing. There are areas of study such as mathematics and geography. Each has its own ideas, problems and epistemology. The overlap, such as may exist, belongs to philosophy -- metaphysics and epistemology, where we treat problems in the most abstract setting possible -- and hope to say something useful in the more concrete settings they emerged from. There is no "critical thinking" that applies to all, or even most, disciplines. The kind of thinking mathematics requires will be quite distinct from that which history may require. The only things we can say about thinking *in general* are superficial, misleading and platitudinous. These professional educators need a more rigorous schooling in the history and development of ideas.

Those training to become teachers are not (truth be told) the brightest people around. Unfortunately, drivel like this will leave them even more confounded than before.

The decent books on the craft of teaching remain Highet's "The Art of Teaching, James' "Talks to Teachers", and Barzun's "Begin Here". I warmly recommend them.

An instant classic in adult education.
Brookfield has done it again. An instant classic in adult education. In accessible language and with an uncanny ability to relate humorous and telling anecdotes, Brookfield provides the best available overview of reflective teaching, especially with adults. His notion that we learn to become reflective teachers through the four key lenses of self, students, colleagues, and theory is an important contribution. But what he does to explain how we learn through these four lenses is revealing and insightful. A good read. A lasting contribution. ... Read more

Book Description

This book successfully integrates instructional design principles, methods, media, and computing, and it uses a learner-centered approach that focuses on how to design solid technology-enhanced instruction that increases learning. It details the basic theories and applications of educational technology in a reader-engaging format. Includes a new chapter, Using the Internet and Distance Education, which is particularly timely given the explosion of on-line technology. For educators and school administrators ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Instructional Designer
I think this book does an excellent job of explaining the basics of educational technology (instructional design) to novice pre-service teachers. I would recommend this to anyone without prior knowledge in designing instructional materials; even at the graduate level!

It's getting older by the second...
I bought this book for a class (California Teaching Credential, manditory class). It's a good book for those who have no idea how to handle technology. There are lesson plan ideas and thought bubbles and very good definitions. For those who do know a thing or two about computers will see how dated this book has already become. I didn't feel as that it was worth buying new, and will probably sell it back, if it can be sold back. ... Read more

Book Description

How can therapists overcome resistance and harness peer acceptance when working with adolescent groups? Group exercises are often used, but where can a therapist find properly conceived, well-designed exercises that will enable adolescents to disclose emotional material that is otherwise difficult to express? A resource for educators, mental health professionals, juvenile justice staff, or agencies and institutions working with adolescents, Group Exercises for Adolescents, Second Edition gives the group facilitator 31 user-friendly exercises. This updated edition contains six new exercises: The Pipe Cleaner Artist, Strengths Jewelry, A Matter of Perspective, The Black Balloon, Friendship Rocks, and Family Memories.

If you are developing a new program, revitalizing an existing one, or in need of one-time group experiences, this manual is for you. It addresses all the hot issues: sex, alcohol, drugs, family dynamics, self-esteem, anger, and more. The manual also discusses both behavioral and cognitive objectives and explores potential blunders or obstacles and their possible solutions.

An invaluable tool that avoids the usual "psychobabble," Group Exercises for Adolescents, Second Edition is a no-nonsense guide that provides a complete group program for therapists, counselors, and other helping professionals who work with adolescents.

Reviews (2)

Limited in scope
The exercises are good, but limited in number. I've also had problems with the exercises appealing to a wide range of kids. The book is useful, and the philosophy that teens are doing their job by having their developmental crises is a positive change from the "disaster" of adolescence that we hear so much about. I would recommend it for those working with basically high-functioning kids with "normal" kinds of difficulties/crises.

A practical and creative approach
This book is noteworthy for its pratical approach. Along the book you can find lots of creative exercises to do with your teenage clients. I consider these activities an excellent resource even for individual therapy (some are very easily adapted), because they are ready to use (the author provides already made materials appropriate for this developmental phase), self diclosure eliciting and presented in a game-like fashion, what is appealing for the adolescents. The activities are divided into several themes, related with adolescent's problems and concerns. Some of these themes are not easy to approach within the group due to some resistance, insecurity and fear of rejection by other members and by the leader. It's necessary to know how to get to core of the hurting issues without making the group feel threatened. This is what this book is all about... ... Read more

Book Description

In this updated version of her landmark book Learning to Listen, Learning to Teach, celebrated adult educator Jane Vella revisits her twelve principles of dialogue education with a new theoretical perspective gleaned from the discipline of quantum physics. Vella sees the path to learning as a holistic, integrated, spiritual, and energetic process. She uses engaging, personal stories of her work in a variety of adult learning settings, in different countries and with different educational purposes, to show readers how to utilize the twelve principles in their own practice with any type of adult learner, anywhere. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Good info but too heavy on the pomp
I read this as part of my Master's program and found it to be helpful overall. Vella explained many concepts that most might find difficult or intimidating through good examples of teaching. While I enjoyed her refreshing honesty at flubs and not-so-great experiences, I did not find her hearts and flowers emotionalism and pomp as exciting or stimulating.

Her writing style varied greatly within examples from over-blown academic writing to the best of simplistic styling. But it became too much to handle and made for slow reading.

Additionally, although I enjoyed the varied and multi-cultural feel of most of her examples, many in my class did not. They felt (wrongly, in my opinion) that those examples did not apply to them in any way because the examples were so far removed from the US.

A Must for any Adult Educator
I was expecting the usual with this book - a little dry, one or two ideas I could apply to my work, maybe an anecdote. I had never read Jane Vella before! A Maryknoll sister and longtime worker for Save the Children, Vella has taught in 48 countries and for over 45 years doing community development work in incredibly varied and diverse situations. You don't have to be interested in community development though, to get the point of this book. While her stories are riveting (you constantly grip the book asking, "And then what happened?!"), her message is consistent - she maps out how she plans, teaches, listens, and reflects on all her teaching/learning experiences. I particularly appreciated her honest approach (she tells you stories of when things didn't go well) and her egalitarian approach to equalizing power in the classroom (she calls it "the death of the professor"). This would also be an excellent volume for anyone working with a culture not their own - Vella models how to truly listen to people's needs in their education experience and not impose what you think they need.

12 Principals of Adult Education that will Inspire You
The 12 Principals of Adult Education set forth in this book will inspire any Adult Educator. They are followed up with relevant case studies from small places in far off corners to college professors. This is a great book for anyone interested in designing adult education programs.

How to respectfully teach adults
This book demonstrates how to apply the principles of adult learning theory when teaching groups of adults. Even adults of cultures very different from your own.

My favorite line: "Teachers do not empower adult learners; they encourage the use of the power that learners were born with." (page 8)

Important concepts illustrated through practical application
I read this book as part of my master's degree program and have come to respect Jane Vella tremendously. She has a way of explaining, in simple yet powerful terms, complex concepts that are often ignored in training and adult education in simple yet powerful terms. Her practical examples help drive home the importance of her principles and by doing so, she is teaching by example. I also suggest you read other works by her, including "Training Through Dialogue." --Anthony Jones ... Read more

Book Description

Assessment Clear and Simple is "Assessment 101" in a book--a concise and step-by-step guide written for everyone who participates in the assessment process. This practical book helps to make assessment simple, cost-efficient, and useful to the institution, while at the same time meeting the requirements of accreditation agencies, legislatures, review boards, and others. Assessment Clear and Simple explores a variety of topics and shows how to:

• Build on assessment already in place
• Use classroom work and grading process
• Get faculty and department on board
• Assess hard to define goals such as moral and civic development
• Development workable learning goals
• Tailor assessment to its purposes
• Select sensible assessment measures
• Make criteria explicit
• Use assessment to improve learning
• Establish effective oversight without an assessment bureaucracy
• Write an assessment report
• Interpret the institution's culture to external audiences

Book Description

"At the very time the need for effective leadership is reaching critical proportions, Michael Fullan's Leading in a Culture of Change provides powerful insights for moving forward. We look forward to sharing it with our grantees."
--Tom Vander Ark, executive director, Education, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

"Fullan articulates clearly the core values and practices of leadership required at all levels of the organization. Using specific examples, he convinces us that the key change principles are equally critical for leadership in business and education organizations."
--John Evans, chairman, Torstar Corporation

"In Leading in a Culture of Change, Michael Fullan deftly combines his expertise in school reform with the latest insights in organizational change and leadership. The result is a compelling and insightful exposition on how leaders in any setting can bring about lasting, positive, systemic change in their organizations."
--John Alexander, president, Center for Creative Leadership

"Michael Fullan's work is remarkable. He masterfully captures how leaders can significantly improve their learning and performance, even in the uncontrollable, chaotic circumstances in which they practice. A tour de force."
--Anthony Alvarado, chancellor of instruction, San Diego City Schools

"Too often schools and businesses are seen as separate and foreign places. Michael Fullan blends the best of knowledge from each into an exemplary template for improving leadership in both."
--Terrence E. Deal, coauthor of Leading with Soul

Business, nonprofit, and public sector leaders are facing new and daunting challenges--rapid-paced developments in technology, sudden shifts in the marketplace, and crisis and contention in the public arena. If they are to survive in this chaotic environment, leaders must develop the skills they need to lead effectively no matter how fast the world around them is changing.

Leading in a Culture of Change offers new and seasoned leaders' insights into the dynamics of change and presents a unique and imaginative approach for navigating the intricacies of the change process. Michael Fullan--an internationally acclaimed expert in organizational change--shows how leaders in all types of organizations can accomplish their goals and become exceptional leaders. He draws on the most current ideas and theories on the topic of effective leadership, incorporates case examples of large scale transformation, and reveals a remarkable convergence of powerful themes or, as he calls them, the five core competencies.

By integrating the five core competencies--attending to a broader moral purpose, keeping on top of the change process, cultivating relationships, sharing knowledge, and setting a vision and context for creating coherence in organizations--leaders will be empowered to deal with complex change. They will be transformed into exceptional leaders who consistently mobilize their compatriots to do important and difficult work under conditions of constant change. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Framework for Leadership in Today¿s World
During a time of rapid change and so-called leadership gurus, Michael Fullan draws from a wealth of research, case study scenarios, and theory to present an interconnected framework of five capacities for leadership which are relevant in today's world. These five components include moral purpose, understanding change, relationship building, knowledge creation and sharing, and coherence making. When effective leaders possess characteristics of energy-enthusiasm-hopefulness and practice the five components, one can expect the outcome that "more good things happen" and "fewer bad things happen."

The five capacities of leadership are interrelated. Moral purpose, both a leadership quality and a natural result of the other four leadership components, involves "doing the right thing" for your organization and the world while contending with the diverse interests of competing groups. Fullan analyzes the change models of Kotter (1996); Beer, Eisenstat, and Spector (1990); and Hamel (2000); and concludes that they all contain good ideas, but are generally "nonactionable." In Fullan's view, there are six principles when dealing with change: the goal is not to innovate the most; it is not enough to have the best ideas; appreciate the "implementation dip;" redefine resistance; recruiting is the name of the game; and never a checklist, always complexity. On relationship building, Fullan cites Lewin and Regine (2000) and states that relationships are not just networking, but "genuine relationships based on authenticity and care." Fullan also cites the importance of developing a high Emotional Quotient (EQ). Fullan's idea of knowledge building embraces the development of a learning culture as proposed by Dixon (2000) where organizational knowledge is created, distributed, and used effectively. The coherence making framework describes the situation where a leader must "disturb a system in a manner that approximates the desired outcome." Within this disorder, members of the organization will develop a sense of personal accountability, engage in purposeful sorting of created knowledge, and build shared commitment.

Fullan proffers that patient leadership is the most effective. Learning in the context of your organization over time yields the best payoff because it is customized to your specific experience. Fullan ends with two conclusions about leadership: anyone can become a better leader at any level of an organization; and internal commitment cannot be activated from the top. Your leadership will be judged by "what leadership you produce in others."

Leading with Clarity
In this book, Fullan integrates theory, research, case studies, and anecdotes to flesh out the dynamics of effective leadership in this post-modern era of complexity, interconnectedness, and rapid (often transformational) technological and social change. He identifies and elaborates on the five components of leadership, which can affect sustainable change: Moral purpose, understanding change, relationship building, knowledge creation and sharing, and coherence making. Fullan sees leadership as a process that all organizational stakeholders, who strive for survival and improvement in a competitive and complex world, need to embrace. Drawing from Heifetz (Leadership Without Easy Answers, 1994), Fullan stakes out new territory for change agents: "Leadership, then, is not mobilizing others to solve problems we already know how to solve, but to help them confront problems that have never yet been successfully addressed." (p.3)

In weaving a coherent tapestry of description and theory, Fullan devotes a full chapter to each leadership component. In its broadest form, moral purpose is the effort to improve how human beings live. Fullan argues that leaders need to cultivate this perspective within themselves and strive to transfer it and embed it within the culture of the organization in order for change to be sustainable. Transforming the culture of an organization - "reculturing" - is the key to continuous improvement. To develop the culture of an organization, leaders must understand that change, or innovation, is a complex process, fraught with "implementation dips" and, in effect, never complete. Leaders with moral purpose care first and foremost about the people they serve - employees and clients.

Citing extensively recent work by Goleman and others, Fullan argues that four leadership styles -- authoritative, democratic, affiliative, and coaching (all hallmarks of high emotional intelligence) -- are most conducive to affecting culture and change. Effective leaders employ all four of these styles at different times and places within the system. Cultural change likewise requires an infusion of knowledge (about problems, strategies, and solutions), and structures and processes to facilitate the sharing of knowledge. New knowledge and new practices represent potentially healthy "disturbances" within the organization, but require effective leadership to help them cohere as forces of cultural change.

No recipe, but a new mind-set
In an increasingly complex and fast-changing world, we cannot just rely on charismatic leaders to solve our problems. We need to cultivate leadership at all levels of any organization, business or education, "to face problems for which there are no simple, painless solutions" (p.3). Instead of prescribing recipes of set steps for leaders, Fullan gives a framework or new mind-set of 5 themes or capacities. Figure 1.1 (p.4) gives a clear image of the non-linear interacting components: the inner pie of moral purpose (acting with the intention of making a positive difference), understanding change, relationship building, knowledge creation and sharing, and coherence making. It is surrounded by an outer rim of the personal characteristics of leaders: "energy-enthusiasm-hopefulness". Effective leaders thus mobilize commitment, both external (based on management policies) and internal (getting a job done is intrinsically rewarding). The aim or outcome of leadership is to make sure that "more good things happen" and "fewer bad things happen" defined according to different contexts.

Fullan gives many case studies and quotes interesting and relevant sources. For example, it is very helpful to learn and use the different leadership styles identified by Goleman in response to different needs (pp. 35ff). The 6 styles are: 1. Coercive ("Do what I tell you."). 2. Authoritative ("Come with me."). 3. Affiliative ("People come first."). 4. Democratic ("What do you thin?"). 5. Pacesetting ("Do as I do, now."). 6. Coaching ("Try this").

While stressing the importance of relationships, the author also cautions us that close relationships are not ends in themselves. Bad practices can often be reinforced by the community (p.67). In talking about leading change, Fullan reminds us to be tortoise-like and quotes Claxton's "slow knowing" (pp.122-3).

I have read this slim book several times and have found it very worthwhile and enlightening. ... Read more

Book Description

As leading authorities on adult education and training, Elwood Holton and Richard Swanson have revised Malcolm Knowles' exemplary work on adult learning. While retaining the best from the past editions, they incorporate the latest developments in adult learning theory and practice into this major revision.

This new book is divided into three parts. The first part contains the classic chapters that describe the roots and principles of andragogy. The second part contains four new chapters that examine:
*The latest perspectives on andragogy
*The application of andragogy in human resource
development
*New advancements in understanding adult learning
*Practical applications of adult learning theory

The new chapters incorporate developments from recent research in adult learning, human resource development, cognitive psychology, adult development, and educational psychology. The last part of the book contains an updated selection of topical readings that advance the theory and practice of adult learning.

This new edition is an ideal introductory book for adult learning practitioners and students.

The late Malcolm Knowles' cornerstone work on adult learning theory and practices is updated with the latest advances in the field.In this new edition, Elwood Holton and Richard Swanson build upon Knowles' foundation to give:
* The latest perspectives on adult learning and its application in adult education and human resource development.
* New developments in understanding adult learning (andragogy in practice)
* Methods for developing effective adult learning programs
* The basics of learning theories
* Why and how teaching adults is difference from teaching children
* A self-diagnostic tool (ready to photcopy) to determine your skill level as a trainer ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Unreadable
This book was the text for an adult learning course, and all 300+ students judged the book to be incomprehensible. So many complaints were received that the instructor apologized, saying it was the only book the school could find. There is good information in this book, but you need dynamite to unearth it. I have a better than average vocabulary, but I had to keep a dictionary by my side as I read, and even then I found words from the text for which I could find no definition. Some chapters had to be read 4 times before I understood the authors' message. Reading this book was a guarantee for a nap or a headache. Please, somebody stop this book before it kills again!

very comprehensive look at adult learning theory
This book is like a one-stop shopping guide to Adult education. It is so comprehensive that I doubt it leaves out one development in the history of adult education. My only warning is that the opening chapters which basically trace many theories of learning (both adult and traditional) are hard to get through -- it reads more like a research paper that summarizes every major educational theory since the beginning of time. But, if you don't want to know that much, you can simply skip these chapters and get right to the meat of the adult learning theories which are more appropos. For those who need a quick primer on learning theories, you'll love the first few chapters for their abundance of quick summary information. A useful guide to adult education.

Excellent primer of Adult Learning Theory
Malcolm Knowles is known as the "Grandfather of Adult Education" in many circles, and this update of his original book does him justice. I recommend the book as a primary resource for people looking for information about how adults learn (adult learning theory), as well as what works and how to make it work in different situations.

An essential read for HRD professionals and adult educators
For those new to Knowles work, this book really is a 'must'. It takes the reader through the essentials of adult education, both in the traditional environments of adult education and in settings such as the workplace. It provides a theoretical framework for understanding the adult learning issues faced by professional educators each day, and also offers significant guidance on future practice. To those who have read past editions of the book, as I have, you will find the Swanson and Holton work true to the spirit of Knowles, and the two authors have introduced more than enough new material to justify buying this Fifth Edition. ... Read more

Book Description

This new text takes a global approach to the theory and practice of teaching social studies to young children. Based on the National Standards for Social Studies, this text presents many practical examples for teaching children in actual settings.The text clearly discusses major topical areas such as geography, history, the arts, and multicultural education.Educators will appreciate its literature-based format, which integrates social studies with other subjects. ... Read more

Book Description

It?s here! An all-new edition of the handbook that started the active training revolution.

You'll learn how to:
* Assess training needs and participants
* Develop active training objectives
* Create practical opening exercises
* Prepare effective lectures
* Design active training exercises
* Provide for back-on-the-job application . . . and much more!

Silberman is synonymous with active training. Thousands upon thousands of trainers look to Silberman for sage advice on teaching adults the way they learn best: by doing.

Now Silberman presents an all-new edition of his runaway bestseller, Active Training. This handbook shows you how to design and conduct experiential programs in private and public sector organizations from beginning to end. Silberman has augmented the first edition, with a wealth of new training exercises and updated case studies, along with information on emerging training technologies and ways to substantiate the ROI of training. Plus, a new section entitled Introducing Active Training explores in greater depth the reasons why adults learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process.

You get over 200 real-life designs and case examples distributed over 35 subject areas including:
* coaching
* communication skills
* team building
* performance appraisals
* customer service
* problem solving
* time management
* leadership . . . and much more!

The index to the case studies enables you to find a training example that suits your current need. Checklists and assessments reinforce training topics and enable you to plan for action.

I'm 'Gung Ho!' about Active Training. All trainers should find it a valuable reading experience. It is loaded with sound concepts and practical ideas.
--Ken Blanchard, co-author, The One Minute Manager and Gung Ho!

Within the covers of this book is all the material you need to make a course or seminar a success. Silberman?s guidebook is loaded with practical, original training tips and a whole host of ways to incorporate these ideas into your training. Experience the second edition of this training classic and you'll never face an audience the same way again. Active training starts here! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wow!
Great book with plenty of practical comments and ideas which allow you to design a truly active session that both, your audience and you, will enjoy.

The best book in training i have read since i am training
I have pleasant meetings with you book Active Training at the last weeks. I am very impressed from it. The book is the best book that has been written about active teaching and learning. The book taught me new active ways as well. The book could help you diagnosis your faults at training and remind you what you forget to do. The book is very friendly. Active Training make it clear that you can be the best trainer if you just work for it. "Active leaning" might hurts but it helps you to grow. I am very grateful about the adventures. The book function like a mirror that tell you where your lipstick is not polished , so you can correct it. The book gave me new insights even I am teaching for 10 years already . The book is like a mentor If you like you can give your hands and travel at a virtual exelent training class.

Many good ideas on how to make your training more active
This book has many good ideas on how to make your training more active. For example, it give one ideas on how to turn a mundane one-way lecture into a lively interactive discussion so that the participants not only enjoy the learning, but retain and use the knowledge gained. In addition, there are many activities that a trainer can use to make his or her training more lively. I strongly recommend this book to all trainers. ... Read more

Book Description

This best-selling book captures the dynamics of business communication as no other on the market does. It presents the subject in a fascinating way, powerfully stimulating and motivating readers; this book gives the foundation for excellent, effective, and practical business communication. By offering “On the Job” simulations that feature actual companies, readers apply business communication concepts to real situations and sharpen their problem-solving skills.Incorporating a three-step approach to writing (planning, writing, and completing business messages), Excellence in Business Communication covers letters, memos, e-mail and other brief messages, reports and oral presentations, and employment messages (including resumes and application letters).With its helpful appendices and a “Handbook of Grammar, Mechanics, and Usage,” this a must-have desk reference for anyone responsible for writing business letters, e-mail, memos, and reports. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Wonderful reference book
I use this book for my primary text in a Business and Professional Communication class that I teach. The students like how the book is organized; I appreciate the examples that we can use in class for discussion.

Beyond that, the AIDA approach to business writing is clear and easy to use once students get the hang of it. My students' major project is to work with an organization in solving a communication problem, they are responsible for writing memos and reports to both the client and me.

However, I guess that the biggest endorsement is the number of students who do not resell this book at the end of the semester. I have had several tell me that this is one of the few books that they will take with them when they graduate because they view it as a good reference book.

Full of It
This book is choc-full of useful techniques for good, solid business communication. The samples are well thought-out and are very true to life. However, the questions, especially the ethics questions do not have any answers provided. Even the instructor copy doesn't have any of the answers, so effectively it boils down to your opinions and whether or not you can defend them. Yee Hah, just like real life.

it is a very good book for a beginning student of BBA OR MB
i am feeling difficulty to understand terminology(glossary required at the end of book) i think all the supported material like test bank or software must be attached with this book in form of CD(ROM) ... Read more

Book Description

An activity-based approach to teaching with an emphasis on using manipulatives to build conceptual understanding! This invaluable book combines practical teaching ideas, video examples, updated assessment techniques, and the NCTM Assessment Standards to give teachers all the background they need to introduce elementary and middle school students to the wonders of mathematics. ... Read more

Book Description

New Foreword by Carol Ann Tomlinson 

"It is the clearest approach I have seen for helping teachers distinguish the difference between concepts and facts. I will recommend it everywhere."
Heidi Hayes Jacob
Curriculum Designers, Inc.

"A lucid and helpful volume, very much what people need to move beyond simplistic teaching."
Grant P. Wiggins
Learning by Design, Inc.

This book is the ideal companion to Erickson’s landmark Stirring the Head, Heart, and Soul, Second Edition. Here, the author explores concept-based learning on a more in-depth level across disciplines and grade levels. Teachers can use the specific strategies to create a seamless learning program that teaches students the skills they really need to think conceptually and to solve problems in today’s complex, changing world.

Learn how to

• Take learning beyond the facts
• Facilitate deep understanding and knowledge
• Develop conceptual systems in the brain to process new information
• Meet higher academic standards related to content knowledge, process abilities, quality performance, and school-to-work transitions
• Align your curriculum with state and national standards and establish appropriate performance assessments

This excellent resource for K-12 teachers, teacher educators, curriculum designers, and staff developers contains numerous charts and figures that enable readers to put the book to immediate use.

 

Reviews (1)

using facts, not memorizing them
As a teacher and ex-curriculum expert, I found the title of the book very interesting. In a world where is possible to access and learn almost every piece of information and fact, it is the duty of the teacher and curricularist to focus on thinking on facts, not memorizing them. ... Read more

Book Description

PERFECT FOR NEW AND SEASONED EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATORS, CAREGIVERS AND STUDENTS ALIKE, this resource covers the spectrum of conditions, disabilities, syndromes and other types of developmental differences that teachers and caregivers may encounter in children from infancy through age eight. For each disability or condition, a very concise definition is presented in straightforward language. Following the definition is a wealth of information in an easy-to-follow column format. The first column details observable behaviors, symptoms, and physical characteristics associated with the condition; the second presents a list of alternative conditions, behaviors and symptoms which may be similar but indicate a different root cause; and, the third column is dedicated to recommendations about how to work with a child who fits the profile of this disability or condition. Particular emphasis is placed on finding effective ways to include the children with special needs in the group. Suggested Web sites at the end of each section offer further opportunity for research. ... Read more

Book Description

A job with the U.S. Border Patrol provides more than a good salary and excellent benefits. Border Patrol agents enjoy exciting jobs, diverse experiences, and promotional opportunities. Competition for these challenging jobs is stiff. You have to be courageous, honest, and physically fit. And, you have to pass the all-important Border Patrol Exam. Over 5,000 people take the exam each time itÆs offered, competing for perhaps 400 positions. To come out on top, you need all the help you can get. LearningExpress has created this easy-to-use guide to give you the edge you need to land the job you want.This new edition includes vital information and preparation for the new Spanish portion of the Border Patrol Exam. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

INS Test Prep
I bought this book because I needed to study for the Immigration Inspector exam. Unfortunately, there isn't a book available for this exam, but this book was at least helpful. I took the test yesterday, and I was so glad that I had studied. There were 200 people taking the test, and at least I felt that I had a slight edge from studying. I wish there would have been more test exams in the book - there's only two. The Immigration Inspector test doesn't include any Spanish or Artificial Language sections, but I did use the Spanish section to brush up on my skills. It takes up to twelve weeks to get your results back, which the book doesn't mention. Good luck to all and study, study, study!!

Buy the blue one!
Until the third edition comes out (and that could be a while since this one is fairly new), this edition is the most up to date one available! The first edition still contains the old vocabulary portion which has been eliminated from the current Border Patrol test. If you wish to study the vocabulary section, I would recommend buying both books, but this is simply NOT necessary. This book gives you study tips, very realistic practice tests, and it helps you to find your weaker areas. Buy the blue one!

Ray Harris
... Read more

Book Description

In this second edition, twenty-nine classic chapters have been revised and updated and twenty new chapters have been added to reflect how the field has evolved since the first edition of the Handbook was published in 1995. This landmark volume describes and analyzes changes such as increased immigration to the United States and new developments in theory and research related to race, culture, ethnicity, and language. It addresses new issues such as findings on the increase in the number of interracial children and the characteristics of children of immigrant families. The educational implications of new research and trends are also discussed.
The Handbook's forty-nine chapters are divided into twelve parts that clarify the meaning and boundaries of multicultural education. Topics covered include trends and developments, ethnic groups in historical and social science research, language issues, academic achievement, higher education, and international perspectives on multicultural education. The volume also offers comprehensive and balanced analyses of key controversies and debates in the field.

... Read more

Reviews (1)

Something all Educators should have
James Banks and Cherry McGee Banks do a wonderful job of editing the material of serveral authors on various ethnic groups of the United States. The historical information regarding people of color in the US in education is accurate and thorough. The most compelling aspect of this reference is the contemporary information regarding education and minorities. All schools and educators should have a copy of this handbook to refer to when discussing or researching multicultural and /or diversity education. While there is no one book which has all the answers to multicultural education this is definiately a start. ... Read more

Book Description

Millions of Americans have to train others as part of their jobs. Whether you’re an employee training your co-workers on a new process or skill, a volunteer asked to train new volunteers, a chef training your staff, or a paramedic giving CPR training, it’s just as important to know how to teach others as it is to know what you’re talking about. It doesn’t matter how much you know about your subject if you can’t share it with others.

Fortunately, Training For Dummies offers all the nuts and bolts of training for anyone who has to educate others on any subject and in any field. It covers all the modern, interactive instructional methods and dynamic training approaches available and helps you get trainees inspired, involved, and enthused. Training For Dummies will help you:

• Keep it interesting so trainees learn more eagerly
• Master the jargon of training
• Use audio and visual aids effectively
• Prepare for the training certification process
• Evaluate your results and improve your tactics

Elaine Biech, President and Managing Principal of Ebb Associates, Inc., and known as “the trainer’s trainer” shows you all the tips and tricks of the trade. Based on her long experience as a trainer and her work for clients such as the IRS and many Fortune 500 companies, Biech helps you discover:

• Tips, techniques, and tidbits for enhancing your training sessions
• Methods that improve trainee participation
• Alternatives to the traditional lecture method
• Tactics for gauging and managing group dynamics
• Strategies for addressing problems in the classroom
• Hints for understanding and adapting to different learning styles
• Helpful resources and other extra material you can put to immediate use

No matter what you do for a living, there will probably come a time when you have to teach others what you know. Training For Dummies cuts through the complicated jargon to present the basics of teaching and learning in straightforward, plain English so you can share your specialized knowledge with those who need it. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

You don't have to be a "dummy" to use this book!
Training for Dummies should really be titled "Handbook for Training that AnyOne can Understand."Everything you need to know about training is written clearly and succinctly.With over a dozen years training people to facilitate high performance teams, I found Elaine's book to be a great resource.The content, logic and the flow of the book is perfect for the novice as well as the seasoned professional.

No more excuses
With Elaine's clear guidelines, there are no more excuses for bad trainers and bad training designs.The use of this comprehensive resource should raise the quality bar for trainers and make participants much happier!

Here is a Clear, Practical, Inspiring Resource for Trainers
Not only does Elaine "nail" the essence of being a trainer, she inspires you be the best trainer you can be with her tips.As an experienced trainer, reading this book has added more tools to my toolbag and renewed my enthusiasm to be a GREAT trainer.An easy and fun read.Thank you Elaine for a terrific resource.

For Both Novices & Profesionals
Finally -- a book on training that covers the waterfront of the field and both novices and professionals can learn from.I gained new information and ideas on icebreakers, taking a COOL approach, evaluation and creating visuals.Thanks, Elaine, for writing this -- it's a great contribution to the field.

Julie O'Mara
1983 National ASTD president

Excellent source for training information!
This book is an invaluable resource for experienced trainers, new trainers, and anyone considering becoming a trainer. It is clear, comprehensive and chock full of good information. I would recommend this book to anyone as the first stop for all the nuts and bolts information on training. Excellent, just excellent. ... Read more

Book Description

Comprehensive andpractical,this guide reveals the benefitsof using multisensoryinstructionin any classroom.After they review 50 years of research and clinical experience with children andadults with learning disabilities, thecontributingauthors explain how and why multisensory methods work.

The result of their efforts is a thorough volume that puts theory into practice with specific teaching approaches that promote:

phonological awareness
alphabet skills
spelling
grammar
reading accuracy and fluency
reading comprehension
handwriting
composition
organization and study skills
communication with parents

In addition, the book pays special attention to the connection between oral language and literacy, the history of the English language, transition into the general classroom after special education, adult literacy, and high-functioning adults with learning disabilities. Field-tested instructional materials and activities are included, along with observation and assessment models. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A parent's point of view
...this is a great book that I've searched for. It pulls tons of useful information about dyslexia into one spot. Only one warning I would send out to parents - this is a textbook not a "pop culture" book. I've found the reading slow going as I'm unfamiliar with many of terms and concepts as I'm not a linguist or teacher. Having said that, I belive I now understand how to help my daughter learn easier which will open many previously closed doors to her. The textbook is worth the effort!!

Goldmine of Theory and Practicality
In Multisensory Teaching of Basic Language Skills, Dr. Judith Birsh has succeeded in bringing together the expertise of a constellation of respected and well-known contributors to produce what will undoubtedly become a highly prized and much-used text/reference book in the field of dyslexia and learning differences. Calling on various authorities to write sections in their area(s) of greatest interest and strength, she has developed a greatly needed resource for understanding, teaching, assessing, and parenting those who have dyslexia and related disorders.

Beginning with the definition and characteristics of dyslexia, a discussion of the latest research in the field, and the need for all teachers to understand the structure of the English written code, the book gives the prospective reader an overview of the eighteen chapters by offering chapter summaries. Other aids for the reader include extensive references for each chapter; graphics and other illustrations; a glossary of key terms; and a most carefully organized appendix of materials and sources.

In an enlightening and forthright discussion of multisensory instruction, the authors of the first chapter address the issue of lack of research studies concerning the efficacy of multisensory teaching. They conclude, however, that there is theoretical support for this approach and that, until research is able to confirm or disprove the effectiveness of multisensory instruction, it behooves teachers to rely on their own experience and professional judgment, as well as on the professional judgment of others who, over the years, report student success when multisensory instruction is used.

The Chapter One discussion of multisensory methods provides the platform upon which the remainder of the book is built. Subsequent chapters proceed logically from the role of oral language to the importance of phonological/phonemic awareness and alphabetic knowledge in the teaching of accurate decoding and reading fluency. A most helpful treatise on the teaching of reading comprehension follows discussion of these vital elements of effective reading from a multisensory perspective.

Readers will also find instructive and well-written sections on such subjects as multisensory mathematics instruction; oral language; phonological awareness; spelling; handwriting (including the multisensory presentation of manuscript letter forms); organization and study skills; and several other subjects. In addition, chapters dealing with adult and high functioning dyslexics, parenting issues, and transition to the general classroom and content areas present materials of high interest and utility.

Instructors in university undergraduate and graduate classes will find this book to be an excellent choice as the text for reading disability courses. It is suggested that the editor and publisher consider developing an instructor's manual and, perhaps, a student guide as supplementary materials for this book.

Having just ordered five copies of this book for use in our university classes for training dyslexia specialists, this reviewer submits that those who deal with learning different individuals will find this book to be a goldmine of theory and practicality.

Jo Polk, Certified Academic Language Therapist and Director of the Learning Therapist Certificate Program, Southern Methodist University ... Read more