This episode explores the Classical style that Beethoven inherited from Haydn and Mozart, highlighting some of its more notable features. Then we look at Beethoven's Piano Sonata no. 1 in F Minor, op. 2, no. 1, from 1795, as both an homage to Mozart and an example of Beethoven's pianistic audacity.

Is low student performance the fault of teachers? Consider this question as you study characteristics of students, teachers, curriculum, and culture in the "model" educational systems to see what makes them different (or not) from the U.S. and other middle- or low-performing countries. Look at the elusiveness of quality teachers in the Gulf region..

Teachers accept children of all backgrounds into their classrooms, and they're delighted to do so. However, sometimes it might seem as if there just isn't any way to give all these kids what they need to excel. But don't despair! In fact, it is possible to design a curriculum which can at once address the needs and interests of all your students. In this program, we illustrate how a well-designed curriculum even improves discipline.. Learn to develop...

While the groundbreaking Third Symphony was Beethoven's public declaration of his "new path" as a composer, the piano sonatas were, collectively, his workshop for getting there. None more so than Sonata no. 17 in D Minor, op. 31, no. 2 (Tempest).

Beethoven's first four piano sonatas are four-movement works that are orchestral in scope, reflecting Beethoven's concept of the piano as a major instrument. We look at the second of his opus 2 set, Sonata no. 2 in A, as an example of these "grand sonatas."

The U.S. and other countries may not be able to replicate Finland's educational system, but they can level the playing field by making adjustments that contribute to equality in policies, curricula, and pedagogy. Focus on gender-based equity, looking at areas where real progress is being made as well as institutionalized gender inequalities masked by egalitarian values..

Professor Greenberg begins with a brief biography of Beethoven and the early history of the piano, followed by a discussion of the recordings of Beethoven's piano sonatas used throughout the series, performed by the distinguished pianist Claude Frank.

Dating back to Sputnik in the 1950s, education culture has been driven by anxiety. Learn about the history of "crisis" in U.S. education before investigating how America's educational system compares with schools and students in other countries. Focus on TIMSS in particular, which tracks mathematics and science achievement in about 70 countries..

Trace how the ideologies of mass education emerged in the U.S. and became central tenets of education around the world. Survey the ideas of key educational thinkers such as Horace Mann and James Bryant Conant, then consider why, despite its strengths, the U.S. might be ranked low relative to international standards..

Four diverse experts (Stefan Collini, John Dunn, Ben Nelson, Josiah Ober) give their unique perspectives on the overlap of life within and beyond the ivory tower of universities.