The purpose of this sampler is to highlight the promise of interventions that might be of use to schools as they design major reforms to address barriers to student learning. The document can also be a resource guide for anyone looking for outcome data to guide work in any of the specific areas sampled. A framework for a comprehensive,…

Study assesses impact of job training on individuals and institutions. (Editor)

Presents the use of a group log in which members analyze the content and process of each session using a suggested format. The log promotes dialogue between the leader and each group member and involves members more fully in the group process. Feedback indicates the log is valuable. (JAC)

Describes an inservice teacher education project designed, over a period of 3 years, to upgrade the quality of care provided to children in 10 day care centers in a six-county area of southwestern Wisconsin. (RH)

Describes a nutrition education program for the elderly in which 22 older adults were recruited and trained as peer educators to create interest in nutrition and serve as liaisons between peers and sound sources of nutrition information. Participants (N=933) reported that sessions were interesting and provided useful information. (Author/JAC)

Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCOR), a National Science Foundation-funded program is in the third year of its five-year grants to scientists in five states. Program objectives, financial support (including cost-sharing by states), state programs resulting from EPSCOR, and EPSCOR achievements are discussed. (JN)

Describes a small but successful intercollegiate competitive public speaking program. Success was related to formation of good student-teacher relationships, a productive organizational psycho-environment, and careful teaching of public speaking fundamentals. (Author/RC)

Describes a behavioral problem-solving package designed to train negotiation and emotional expression skills. Training consisted of modeling, behavioral rehearsal, and feedback regarding the rehearsal. Training was associated with increases in target, nontarget, and subjective behaviors, thereby demonstrating generalized treatment effects. (Author)

Outlines the pros and cons of Project JOLT, a "Scared Straight" type of program. Raises some theoretical, methodological, and political issues surrounding the Scared Straight approach. Illustrates some of the pitfalls in program evaluation in corrections and makes some recommendations. (Author/RC)

Describes positive response to a parent support and assistance program in a private pediatric office. Discusses other positive offshoots of the program, including identification of underlying marital and/or family problems of parents seeking advice about their children's behaviors. (Author)

Describes a group for couples deciding whether or not to have children. Couples (N=4) participated in various group exercises and activities. Results indicated the group experience was positive for most members: they gained an understanding of their own needs and attitudes, of their spouses' positions, and of issues involved. (Author)

Describes Emory & Henry College's adoption and succesful use of the Dartmouth method based on attraction of students to program, retention of students, enthusiasm of college community and improved performance of students when compared to proficiency of students in simultaneously taught traditional courses. (Author/BK)

This article describes the scope and content of the Nicaraguan National Literacy Crusade of 1980, its organization, workings, and outcomes. Special attention is given to those aspects of the crusade that relate to the goals of integrating previously excluded groups and transforming the political culture of the country. (Author)

Baltimore's Job Squad is a placement alternative that motivates the handicapped person to improve independent job-seeking skills through the teamwork of counselors, peers, and community resources. Job Squad's background, support system, organization, positive results, and future implications as a valuable placement technique are discussed. (Author)

Describes one county's approach to juvenile justice education. The program's goal is to develop and maintain an efficient, effective education for troubled youth based on the concepts of dignity, respect, and self-esteem. Discusses the target population, program methods, staff requirements and training, obstacles, and success indicators. (RJM)