A large proportion of teachers throughout the world teach in multigrade classrooms, or classes with more than one grade level. It is reliably predicted that the number of multigrade classes will increase in the future. This paper addresses the issue of teacher education for multigrade. The main thesis of this paper is that the professional…

Describes research testing the hypothesis that complex technologies (or teaching methods) generate more complex organizational structures. Uses two sets of longitudinal data from San Francisco elementary schools. (CK)

Explains why block scheduling has become accepted practice at the secondary level and describes potential benefits for middle level schools. Shares common scheduling approaches and discusses their appropriateness for use at the middle level. Presents alternative models that would permit middle school faculties to capitalize on the benefits of…

A study of four elementary schools in one large Texas school district found that cultural norms and traditions of educational administration set boundaries within which teachers chose from a limited set of "recipes" for teaching and other activities. The two-year study, using data from interviews, documents, and daily observations of…

This paper examines the connection between educational policymaking and the organization and functioning of the public schools. First, the authors describe hierarchical levels of educational organization (districts, schools, classrooms, instructional groups, and individual students); consider the linkages between levels; and discuss the…

Funded in part by Elementary Secondary Education Act Title III funds and in part by the Atlanta, Georgia School System, Project Success Environment is now in Year Two of a three year program. A teaching technique of three components--a reinforcement system, a special classroom arrangement, and a success curriculum--the project premised that if…

A framework for approaching an issue-oriented American history course through the small group technique (grouping of 5 to 7 students) is provided in this paper. Student grouping in a cooperative style enhances affective and cognitive development and, further, allows for evaluation of each member's and group's contributions. Provided are rationale;…

The 111th Street School is successfully educating black students K-6 in inner-city Los Angeles. The key to the program's success is a form of organization designed to functionally support an ungraded system of learning centers devoted to attainment of specific educational objectives. Two Directories, this for the classroom teacher and a separate…

This collection of four case studies discusses the work of teachers and their efforts to change their classrooms, schools, and districts. The case studies show that teachers can learn to use their own strengths and talents, knowledge, shared vision, and commitment to student growth and development to effect change. The first case study,…

This paper argues that the structure of activities provides the basis for a model of school organization and its effects on student outcomes. The observation is presented that it is within the context of daily activities that teachers and students make judgments about themselves and others, interact and form social ties, and experience social…

This book was written to fill the gap between educational theory and classroom reality which comes from the spectator learning experience in many teacher education programs. Chapters contain activities and readings to facilitate the action and reflection process. Part 1: "The Students," includes chapters entitled:(1) "Childhood into Adolescence";…

The programs and publications of the Wisconsin Center for Education Research from 1980 to 1984 are listed and described in this document. The center's efforts focus on the study of the nature and effects of diversity among students. The research program adds to knowledge about how children learn, how they are taught, and what characterizes…