Employing multiple approaches and data sources, School Improvement Model (SIM) researchers have worked with selected districts nationwide to implement a new 360-degree feedback model favored by many companies. This article describes how 360-degree feedback (from students, peers, self-evaluation, supervisors, parents, and student achievement) can…

Details the middle school implementation of an Academies of Inquiry and Talent Development enrichment program involving authentic-learning and real-life problem solving objectives. Considers start-up issues of orientation for students and parents, as well as teacher planning. Also considers issues of maintaining high standards, finding time for…

Highlights the development and implementation of a multifaceted program at Middlesex Community College in Massachusetts. The program, which includes curriculum changes, new student organizations, international student fellowships, and orientation activities, was designed to create a more inclusive campus environment. Presents findings concerning…

Contends that the corporate literature on customer service is significantly applicable to academic libraries, and chronicles the development, implementation, and evaluation of a customer pledge at the Wright State University Libraries in Dayton, Ohio. The text of the fall 1995 version of the service pledge is appended. (BEW)

Discusses the development of interactive media-delivered training. Highlights include examples; indicators for using multimedia; factors for successful implementation; learning and performance development; evaluating hardware options; technology choices, including interactive videodisc, compact disc interactive, CD-ROM, networked interactive…

Discusses issues associated with implementation of a new problem-based dental curriculum at the University of Queensland (Australia), focusing on costs and challenges of implementation based on a 1996 survey of staff involved. The origins and rationale of the new curriculum are examined, and both direct and indirect costs are explored, with…

A junior high school English teacher explains how she managed to teach gifted and talented students in a mixed-ability classroom. She discovered the importance of taking "baby steps" (allowing independent study), varying learning activities, raising the bar for everyone, and discovering her students' passions. (MLH)

In its valiant differentiation and detracking efforts, a Virginia high school hoped to assist all students in mastering state standards and enrich, excite, and challenge high-ability students via learning contracts and advanced material feeding their interests. However, disgruntled parents managed to reinstate the tracking system. (MLH)

By analyzing an unsuccessfully implemented project (a federally funded reading initiative), staff at a Michigan elementary school gained understanding about the countless dilemmas accompanying the change process. Real and lasting changes must be related to positive existing practices and require adequate time, support, and collaboration. (MLH)

Describes the ongoing problem of graduate level preparation for community college teaching, and the need for such faculty. Describes a program in which two-year college and university faculty collaborate to train graduate students as community college faculty. Discusses getting the program started, implementing it, and taking stock. (SR)

England's 1.6 billion-pound National Grid for Learning initiative represents an unprecedented government commitment to educational use of information and communications technology (ICT). NGfL will integrate ICT into all schooling areas via increased funding, teacher training, and simulation of a systemwide "ICT culture." Implications and…

This article discusses the characteristics of the Kennedy Kids and Adults Together program, a successful elementary mentoring program for students and community members. Ten steps for establishing such a program are outlined and the results of a program evaluation conducted with students, family members, teachers, and mentors are reported.…

This article describes Options for Justice, an agency that provides education and training to professionals and direct services to offenders with developmental disabilities. Recommendations for developing and implementing similar programs are offered. Areas addressed include assessing need, funding, selection of program services, staffing, the…

Discusses the instructional processes and theoretical aspects of virtual classrooms in a school context. Reports on a three-year pilot project in Finland linking two lower secondary classrooms (grades seven through nine) with video-conferencing, highlighting the interactive network of the linked classrooms. Concludes that technology use today…

Describes the "Circle of Learning" project, which establishes collaborative relationships and is aimed at addressing issues that often prevent American-Indian students from attaining success in secondary and post-secondary education. Discusses the necessary steps for the project's implementation and the activities involved in the project. (YKH)