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The purpose of this study was to examine how incorporating technology into teaching methods (including the phases of organizing video conferencing sessions) promotes college students' construction of knowledge. Video conferencing technology via the Internet afforded an enriched environment in which students interacted with educators at different sites. The data analysis yielded four themes: the challenges of being constructivist teachers, thinking about thinking, the use of technology, and the importance of reflection. The use of online-video conferencing in conjunction with teacher education courses was an effective way to facilitate students' understanding of constructivism. Suggestions regarding implementing a constructivist approach using technology in higher education are also discussed.

The purpose of this study was to examine the concept of "hansei" (introspection) among teachers, parents, and other relatives of Japanese kindergarteners. The data came from essays written by Japanese adults. The data analysis revealed that the concept of "hansei" encompassed self-evaluation, improvement, and morality. The implications for education and teacher education resulting from the study were presented. (Contains 1 table.)

Early childhood teachers' understandings of play were examined in a qualitative comparative study of 41 Japanese and 41 American participants. Qualitative analysis of the data yielded five themes: the power of living, the opportunity to learn and to develop, fun activities, child's work, and the opportunity to explore nature. Two themes emerged in regard to the meaning of play for adults: enjoyable and voluntary activities and child's play. Finally, we identified two themes regarding playfulness: state of heart and fun feelings. Teachers in both nations used rhetoric that is congruent with the current Zeitgeist of developmentally appropriate early education. One theme that differentiated the groups was the notion that play is children's work. While several Americans mentioned this slogan, this was not the case for the Japanese participants. In contrast, the theme of play as the power of living was more representative of Japanese teachers' understandings of play, and this reflects the philosophy set forth by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology. (Contains 3 tables.)

Interviews were conducted with 28 kindergartners, their teachers, and their director to examine Japanese children's moral development. Qualitative analysis of interviews revealed three themes related to moral development: social system morality, emotions, and responsibility. Children made moral decisions based on social system morality encompassing laws, justice, duty, and social rules. Emotions such as empathy and anger influenced children's moral reactions to dilemmas. Eight children emphasized responsibility in moral judgments. (KB)

The relationship between playfulness and creativity was examined among preschoolers in Japan. Statistical data analysis indicated no relationship between playfulness and creativity. Because teachers described some non-playful children as playful because of an internal playfulness that manifested in one-on-one interaction, qualitative data analysis showed that such a relationship may exist. Cultural differences in assessment of creativity were considered. (JPB)

Examined the effect of a school/community relations course on preservice teachers' perceptions of comfort and competence levels in planning and implementing family involvement programs in schools. Pre- and post-course assessments examined students' ability to work with parents. Results indicated that course experiences made significant differences in enhancing students' perceptions of their comfort and competence levels. (Author/SM)

Examined the Japanese concepts of "sunao," a quality of docility or cooperativeness in kindergarten children, age 6 and a half years old, from the viewpoint of children themselves. Examined how Japanese adults promote their children's internalization of parental, group, and institutional norms. Discusses the role of "sunao" as a fundamental characteristic of the child, and its relation to the child's autonomy and peer relations. (JPB)

The purpose of this study was to compare cultural differences in Japanese and American first graders' occupational aspirations. The data came from the written essays of children from both nations. [...]