The Arts, the Common Core, and English Language Development in the Primary Grades

by Christa Mulker Greenfader & Liane Brouillette
This study examines the speaking abilities of K–2 Hispanic ELs who were randomly assigned to an arts-based professional development program that emphasized oral English-language interactions. Additional review suggests that the activities corresponded well to Common Core speaking and listening standards, but concerns are raised that a lack of speaking assessments in the Common Core may result in a subsequent distortion of K–2 instruction.
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Who Wants to Learn More Science? The Role of Elementary School Science Experiences and Science Self-Perceptions

by Pamela R. Aschbacher & Marsha Ing
This study explores the relationships among fifth-graders’ perceived learning opportunities in school science, their perceptions of self in science, and their desire to take more science courses in middle and high school, using two different samples of students.
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Dicent v. Kaplan University: Third Circuit Forces Dissatisfied Student to Arbitrate Her Claims Against a For-Profit College

by Richard Fossey & Robert C. Cloud
A dissatisfied former student sued Kaplan University in federal court, accusing the for-profit university of making false claims and disseminating false advertisements. A federal court dismissed her claims, ruling that she had agreed to arbitrate her dispute with Kaplan rather than sue. On appeal, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the trial court's dismissal.