The textbook as classroom context variable

To explore the role of the textbook as a context variable in process—product relationships, data on teaching practices and learning outcomes from the IEA Classroom Environment Study in The Netherlands were used. The sample consisted of 50 secondary school mathematics classes and their teachers. Three textbooks were represented in the sample. Data collection included systematic observation of lessons and administration of tests and questionnaires to students and teachers. Nine teaching practices analogous to the distinguishing features of the textbooks were identified, and data relating to these practices were analysed. Four of the teaching practices occurred to different degrees in the three groups of textbook users. The correlations with two learning outcomes in different groups of textbook users were significantly different for 5 of the 18 cases. These results suggest that the textbook is an important context variable

IMPROVING SPEAKING SKILLS THROUGH COOPERATIVE LEARNING FOR THE TENTH GRADE STUDENTS OF THE TOURISM PROGRAM AT SMKN 7 YOGYAKARTA IN THE ACADEMIC YEAR OF 2011/2012

The objective of this action research study was to improve the speaking skills of the tenth grade students of the UJP (Unit Jasa Pariwisata) class at SMKN 7 Yogyakarta in the academic year of 2011/2012 through the use of cooperative learning. This action research was conducted in two cycles involving cooperative learning methods such as two stray two stay, think-pair-share, numbered heads together, and inside outside circle as the main activities. Conducting role play, giving feedback, brushing up the materials, asking the students to bring a dictionary, giving a handout and reward were the complement of the main activities. The data were obtained by observing the teaching and learning process, interviewing the students and collaborators, holding discussions with the collaborators, giving questionnaires to the students, taking pictures, and recording the teaching and learning process. The instruments used in this research were observation guidelines, interview guidelines, and questionnaires. Data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing and verification were used to analyze the data. The research results show that the students’ speaking skills improved through the use of cooperative learning. The students made a good improvement in some aspects of speaking skills such as pronunciation, fluency, and interactive communication. They were more confident to speak English. They had more chances to speak up. They easily learnt the materials with a group. They actively participated during the teaching and learning process. They were more aware of the mistakes or errors made as they always gave feedback to others’ performance. The various activities made the class atmosphere enjoyable. The students’ motivation to bring a manual and electronic dictionary helped them learn the materials. The group work activities applied improved the students’ understanding towards the materials and the teacher’s classroom management

Secure and Prepared Newsletter, December 4, 2008, Vol. 4, no. 16

A bi-weekly newsletter for those involved in the fields of homeland security and/or emergency managemen

Анализ языковых проблем в процессе обучения английскому языку будущих специалистов экономического профиля

У статті здійснюється спроба розкрити додаткові резерви для формування навиків безпомилкового спілкування майбутніх фахівців економічного профілю в процесі їх мовної підготовки. До них відноситься використання таких малих форм, як реальні газетні заголовки, рекламні оголошення тощо.The article is devoted to the ways of brushing up on effective conversational skills with the help of analyzing real signs, notices and advertisements that sometimes appear at various locations, in papers, church bulletins.В статье предпринимается попытка раскрыть дополнительные резервы для формирования навыков безошибочной коммуникации будущих специалистов экономического профиля в процессе их языковой подготовки. К ним относится использование таких малых форм, как реальные газетные заголовки, рекламные объявления

Using eggshell membranes as a DNA source for population genetic research

In the context of population genetic research, a faster and less invasive method of DNA sampling would allow large-scale assessments of genetic diversity and genetic differentiation with the help of volunteer observers. The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of eggshell membranes as a DNA source for population genetic research, by addressing eggshell membrane DNA quality, degeneration and cross-contamination. To this end, a comparison was made with blood-derived DNA samples. We have demonstrated 100% successful DNA extraction from post-hatched Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) eggshell membranes as well as from blood samples. Using 11 microsatellite loci, DNA amplification success was 99.1% for eggshell membranes and 97.7% for blood samples. Genetic information within eggshell membrane DNA in comparison to blood DNA was not affected (F-ST = -0.01735, P = 0.999) by degeneration or possible cross-contamination. Furthermore, neither degeneration nor cross-contamination was apparent in total genotypic comparison of eggshell membrane DNA and blood sample DNA. Our research clearly illustrates that eggshell membranes can be used for population genetic research