Computers are strategic tools in readying students for the future, as well as important learning tools for the present. The use of computers can help alleviate critical problems including low self-esteem, dropout rates, and illiteracy. This guide proposes making school computers accessible to students during times when schools are normally closed:…

Based on one middle school teaching team's curriculum improvement project, this monograph makes a case for actively involving students in all aspects of the teaching/learning process by means of a student-oriented curriculum. The goal of the project described was to provide an opportunity for students to study thematic units, working cooperatively…

This book contains 14 case studies, written by those involved in the teaching and training initiatives, that illustrate the use of open and distance learning strategies. The case studies, drawn from many parts of the world (but mostly British based), feature efforts in large and small companies in a variety of industries. The first part of the…

The Texas legislature and the State Board of Education, recognizing the need for an alternative to student retention, established the Retention Reduction Pilot Program to provide additional days of instruction for students in first grade who would otherwise have been retained. The Optional Extended Year Program (OEYP) was initiated to expand…

This journal provides a medium for sharing concepts, methods, and findings relevant to the classroom, and an open forum for the discussion and review of problems. This volume consists of the fall 1994 and spring 1995 issues and provides the following articles: (1) "FOCUS: Ohio University-Lancaster, the Center of a Vital and Growing…

This volume presents a report on recent developments and current policy objectives in vocational education and training in the Netherlands. The study is based on a conceptual and analytical framework jointly elaborated by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Secretariat and representatives of member countries. Organized in two…

This article reviews recent ground-breaking research studies that can provide guidance for policymakers and practitioners interested in improving literacy in the United States. Each section provides a brief analysis of major research findings, followed by a series of recommendations. These issues are identified: the close relationship between…

A total of 29 primary school head teachers, advisers, trainers, and specialists in career- and work-related learning met to discuss the role of career-related learning in primary schools in the United Kingdom. The discussion centered on the following topics: potential benefits of career-related learning in primary schools; rationale for, and good…

The preparation and qualifications of Pennsylvania vocational education (VE) teachers were examined in a statewide survey. Survey instruments were mailed to all 152 practicing VE teachers in Pennsylvania who had received a Pennsylvania Vocational Instructional II Certificate in 1990-1998. Thirty-four (22.37%) of the VE teachers completed…

This document consists of ten issues (covering January through December 2000) of the Newsletter, "Community Update," containing articles on community and family involvement in education. Article topics include: grants to improve local schools in the 21st century; the Telephone Pioneers of America; learning resources on the World Wide…

This paper presents a model for shared decision making among Wright State University's (WSU's) teacher education faculty, PreK-12 educators, and science and mathematics faculty in preparing quality teachers. The model involves over 430 representatives from PreK-12 schools, businesses, human service agencies, WSU, and the military who provide input…

In February 2000, the National Center for the Study of Adult Learning and Literacy (NCSALL) cosponsored a national literacy summit of more than 100 representatives from the field of adult literacy and basic education in Washington, DC. During the summit, 29 adult literacy teachers from 5 states (Virginia, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Maine, and…

The Department of Public Instruction is actively involved in efforts to improve the school experience and educational outcomes in Wisconsin. Chapter 1, "What Are the Characteristics of Successful Schools?" examines the seven characteristics of successful schools, which describe the school environment, goals, and management strategies and…

The extent to which network cooperation between the general education system, vocational training institutions, business enterprises, social partners, and political decision makers affects quality development in vocational training was examined through a literature review and synthesis of eight case studies in the following seven European…

The New Leaders Academy (NLA) is a national leadership training program aimed at ensuring the continuity of effective leadership of, and improved practices within, youth employment and development programs. The first NLA residential training session, held at Gallaudet University (Washington, DC), enrolled and trained 31 participants (called "New…