This article demonstrates a novel application of propensity score matching techniques: to estimate nonexperimental impacts on program participants within the context of an experimental research design. The author examines the relationship between program participation, defined as qualifying for an earnings supplement by working full-time, and…

This research aims to devise a set of computer-based tools to meet the diverse needs of learners for comprehending a science learning unit, namely work. A model of computer-based tools on the learning unit for developing procedural knowledge for solving work problems was developed together with a set of teacher customization and collaboration…

The English government has focused upon a pattern of professional development that involves demonstration and modelling as a key element in the improvement of the teaching of 11-14 year olds (Key Stage 3 strategy). From 1997 the Nuffield Primary History Project (NPHP) has implemented a programme for the professional development of teachers built…

The authors developed and evaluated an online foster parent training system designed specifically for low-bandwidth Internet connections and individuals with limited Internet/computer experience. After preliminary onsite evaluations, a 2-week field test was conducted to evaluate the following dimensions: foster parents' pre- to post-test scores on…

Austin Independent School District provided full-day prekindergarten to 5,196 4-year-olds in 2008-2009 at 66 schools. Seventy percent or more of students made measureable gains on a test of receptive vocabulary, and average gains showed growth about two times greater than that expected for 4-year-olds after a 7-month period.

This publication contains nine articles about the process of doing research by literacy practitioners and volunteers in several areas of the Ontario (Canada) literacy field. "Implementing a Workplace Program: A Look Back" (Maria Ioannou-Makrakis) describes the process followed and the learning outcomes from planning, implementing, and…

The Alternative Basic Comprehension Program (Project A.B.C.) was an Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title VII-funded special alternative instructional program in its fourth year at two high schools in the Bronx (New York). In 1993-94, the project served 264 students of limited English proficiency from many countries. Participating students…

The objective of this program, which was created in response to the emergency situation in New York City's Community School District 3, was to train all guidance counselors, social workers, and nurses in the district to develop the skills to deliver substance abuse prevention counseling and support services. Program sponsored training was to be…

In February 1993 the Buffalo Financial Plan Commission was asked to conduct a financial and management assessment of the Buffalo (New York) public schools. The effort involved the work of 115 volunteers from 75 businesses and community organizations in the Buffalo area. Thirty-four recommendations were produced, which were expected to yield annual…

As part of the annual program review reporting process, colleges in the Illinois Community College System are asked to respond to specific questions regarding current programs provided in an addendum to the state Program Review Guide. This report provides the additional questions for the 1995-96 program review in three sections. The first section…

This paper discusses the use of focus groups to investigate criteria used by college students to determine their satisfaction with higher education, and presents the results of a pilot study. It reviews research on the use of focus groups, discusses the development of a focus group guide for the current study, and examines problems associated with…

Based on recommendations from a state Task Force on Institutional Effectiveness, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board developed a new institutional review system designed to identify institutional and programmatic strengths and areas of concern, verify institutional outcomes and improvement efforts, identify exemplary programs and…

This report provides an assessment of the Central Park East (CPE) elementary school (in New York City) effort, an effort by teachers who believed that the "progressive education" that worked for the children of the wealthy and privileged in many private and suburban schools could work equally well for poor and working-class children.…

The Des Moines (Iowa) Independent Community School District Department of Information Management provides leadership and management services for the district in the areas of strategic planning for district improvement, technology, telecommunications, accountability, program evaluation, research, testing/assessment, and student information. This is…

The Lead Teacher Project at Ohio University included 84 teacher participants who represented 42 schools from 13 school districts in Appalachian Ohio. The project was designed to enhance the teaching and learning of science and mathematics at the elementary school level by helping the teacher participants develop skills, knowledge, attitudes, and…