Highlights some theoretical aspects of an alternative architecture for intelligent tutoring systems, introduces a prototype research tool in the domain of workcell scheduling, and suggests future theoretical and implementational work. Topics discussed include the roles of the user as domain expert and learner and the representation of domain…

This article presents a conceptual model for analyzing the process of implementing policies for school-to-work transition of individuals with disabilities. The model identifies explicit and implicit directives, describes policies and practices, contrasts practices with policy directives, assesses quality of local implementation, and identifies…

A collaborative, grass-roots partnership focusing on students at risk for educational failure has been developed by the University of Alaska Anchorage and the Anchorage (Alaska) School District. The effort is distinguished by a perception of common ground, a minimal administrative and financial structure, and a high degree of commitment from…

The Quality Circle Model of Planning is presented as a program evaluation approach for schools serving students with blindness. The model helps administrators solve problems using creative, innovative approaches; identifies human and monetary resources for successful implementation of the plan; and provides a framework for evaluating the plan's…

The "iNtegrating Technology for inQuiry" (NTeQ) model provides a framework for creating an environment for students to use computers as tools to build a strong educational background while solving meaningful problems. This article outlines the NTeQ philosophy, describes the design process for lesson plans, and discusses professional development…

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)

This commentary reviews progress towards the development and implementation of home-based services aimed at preventing abuse and neglect and promoting the health and development of the infant and mother. The effectiveness of the Healthy Families model and the Olds' model are highlighted, and challenges facing home visitation programs are…

Describes a Mega Planning simulation using a complete strategic planning process aimed at reinventing U.S. public education systems. The process involved scoping (developing the ideal mission, assessing mega-needs, and deriving mission objectives); planning (deriving the mission profile, performing function analyses, and evaluating performance…

Describes the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of an interactive videodisc exhibit at the San Diego Natural History Museum. Design requirements for museum environments and interactive videodisc-based exhibits are examined, a field evaluation is described, and the adaptation of an instructional design model for museum settings is…

Presents a framework for creating competency-based models, including an analysis of the utility of national competency banks. Presents a checklist that institutional researchers can use during and after the implementation phase to guide institutional success. Concludes with a bibliography of selected Internet-based resources in the area of…

As student data analysis reports become more sophisticated, these reports reveal greater details on low performance skills. Availability of models and programs depicting detailed instructions or guidance for utilizing data to impact classroom instruction, in an effort to increase student achievement, has been lacking. This study examines the…

Recent years have seen an upsurge in prevention work focused on changing the campus and community environments in which college students make decisions about alcohol and other drug (AOD) use. This approach, called "environmental management," is based on three fundamental premises: (1) Substance use problems are aggravated by a physical, social,…

From time to time critics of the middle level publish works that suggest that our philosophy is too much "feeling good" and not enough academic substance. Confusing this debate is the current trend of districts (especially large urban ones) to reconfigure their schools to K-8 neighborhood schools. In this article the author takes a long look at…

This article explores some of the major issues in developing and implementing a competency-based human resource development strategy. The article summarizes a brief literature review on how competency models can be developed and implemented to improve employee performance. A case study is presented of American Medical Systems (AMS), a mid-sized…

City Year is a community-service program based in Boston (Massachusetts) that has frequently been praised as a model for other service programs. In City Year, young people of all races and from differing backgrounds work together for 9 months on public service programs ranging from physical labor to tutoring. Volunteers receive a small stipend and…