Choice 评论

This is a wonderful collection in which Eleanor Duckworth and six of her colleagues describe how learners came to connect with seven different subject matters. The ages of the learners (five to adulthood) were as diverse as the subjects they studied--mapping to medicine, poetry to science. The authors' stories are very readable and offer an interesting look at people involved with real learning. Duckworth, who was once a research assistant for Jean Piaget, and her associates share their knowledge about the patterns and habits of engaged learners as both instructor and pupils learn about a variety of subjects. Duckworth's philosophy and underlying purpose can be found in her comments: "I learned to talk with children in a way that kept them interested in the discussion and invited them to say what they thought about the topic. And I learned the importance and the challenge of listening well enough to understand what they were saying." Duckworth's understanding of the teaching and learning process is reflected in the works of the other six authors. Recommended for lower-division undergraduates through faculty and professionals. G. E. Pawlas University of Central Florida