This report investigates factors that drive teachers to embrace or challenge the use of products and services designed to support improvements in practice. Key elements of the study include: (1) Technology-based resources studied include those designed for video observations, peer feedback and collaboration, online professional learning, and…

In 2011, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation extended grants to three educational organizations working to develop or enhance competency-based approaches in large, urbanized school systems. The grant initiative, called Project Mastery, funded the development of technology-enhanced tools, including curriculum materials and online learning…

In 2011, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation created the Project Mastery grant program to support competency-based education initiatives in large school systems that serve a high proportion of disadvantaged youth. Competency-based education meets students where they are academically, provides students with opportunities for choice, and awards…

In the Philadelphia Public Schools, a computer system called Data to Success has been created to assess student progress prior to end-of-year testing. The five-stage system allows a school to influence teacher decisions, identify student warning signs, and monitor important trend and analysis information throughout the school year. (MLH)

An inhouse accounting program can increase the productivity and efficiency of the school business office. Discusses basic questions regarding software, hardware requirements, training, and obtaining staff support and cooperation. (MLF)

The Evaluation and Assessment Laboratory at the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) has contracted with the Georgia Department of Education (GDOE) to develop a microcomputer-based data management system for use in applying evaluation standards to schools and school systems. The Comprehensive Evaluation System (CES) was implemented statewide and has…