ADAPTIVE MUTUAL CURRICULUM: A BREAKTHROUGH IN CHARACTER EDUCATION

<p><em>Character education is perceived differently and has been implemented partially. In addition, its execution in classroom context seems to simply be on the concept level which later on leads to the ineffectiveness of the program. Therefore, a reference or guidance in the form of applicable curriculum is necessitated. The study seeks to create a model of an adaptive mutual curriculum that can provide a clear cut practical guidance for teachers in implementing character education and validates it. The </em><em>mutual adaptive curriculum as the product of the study</em><em> </em><em>in its implementation is adjusted to contextual needs, real and existing condition, and adopted developmental requirements. </em><em>The design and content of curriculum is designed and determined by the external contexts of teaching and learning. The adaptation is carried out in pre and whilst the process of the implementation. </em><em>The design of mutual adaptive curriculum is actualized in the forms of objectives, content or materials, learning experiences, and evaluations which are realized in the form of curriculum manual and instructional materials and activities for students. Despite the weaknesses and the problems that the mutual adaptive curriculum has, it has in certain extent proven to be a validated model of curriculum in character education</em></p>

Microscopy for Middle Schools

The Microscopy Society of America (MSA) is beginning a long-term educational effort; the first goal of the program is to bring the excitement of microscopy to middle schools. We'll begin by developing a curriculum manual that integrates an understanding of how lenses magnify with observation of the microworld; examples will be from both physical and biological sciences. Funding will come from NSF and private foundations, and science education expertise will be provided by the Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley, a leading developer of science curriculum. As educators often use acronyms, we've named ours MICRO, for Microscopy In Curriculum - Research Outreach.Writing a manual is just the beginning. MSA is directing its first effort at middle schools, because teachers at that level who want and need to teach science often lack the background to do so as anything more than a dull textbook exercise; teacher training workshops will be offered nationally.