Describes the Birmingham (Michigan) Public Schools' morale-boosting program. First the superintendent established a district communications team (composed of administrators, teachers, and noncertified staff members) to plan morale-building events. The district also hired a consultant to work with staff and students to improve specific aspects of…

The author discusses the concept, first encouraged by Irving Bluestone of the United Auto Workers, that union and management personnel should work together to achieve company goals. The history of this cooperative effort movement within the United Auto Workers is described. (CH)

Explores the paradoxical role of external leaders of self-managing work teams in a medium-sized manufacturing plant. External leaders' most important behaviors are those facilitating the team's management through self-observation, self-evaluation, and self-reinforcement. Leaders' dominant role is to lead others to lead themselves. Contains 6…

Compares high and low consensus discussions, and identifies patterns of communication which differentiate the two levels of agreement. Describes several interactional differences, including the variety of integration methods employed, and the method and distribution of generating possible solutions to the problem. (MM)

Field data from two case studies of youth employment and day care information/referral programs illustrate dynamic linkages between stakeholder participation and utilization in program evaluation. Elements of the participatory process (which fosters a readiness for use) are linked to cognitive, affective, and political dimensions of participation…

The author defines productivity and discusses ways to increase productivity in the workplace, with emphasis on human resource development (HRD). He discusses the use of quality circles, participative management, and layoffs to increase productivity. (CH)

Raising professional standards and improving teacher preparation programs will have little effect unless teaching becomes a more attractive career. Local administrators should involve faculty members effectively and satisfactorily in the decision-making and management process so that teachers don't need to enlist collective bargaining to force…

Employees and faculty members at private institutions, it is suggested, have the right to decide whether they wish to engage in collective bargaining. Faculty members should seek support for narrower legislation establishing that participation in institutional governance would not automatically confer managerial status on faculty members. (MLW)

This discussion includes a review of Drucker's concept of entrepreneurship, a current management trend in which organizations encourage entrepreneurship and innovation from employees. Drucker's discussion of public service institutions and the relationship of those points to library management are highlighted. (CLB)

Team building and participatory strategies are techniques for increasing productivity in the workplace. Studies show that people often solve problems more effectively in groups, and they are more productive when they assume more responsibility for their work. (SK)

This article analyzes how teachers participating in public school-university partnerships can be encouraged to explore the nature of their professional roles, engage in reflexive thinking, and develop capacities to focus on new goals and school improvements to overcome aspects of their professional responsibilities which conflict with open…

Several suggested activities from the National Parent Teacher Association are suggested for involving parents in education. Categories discussed include: parents as participants in their children's education; parents as school volunteers and supporters; and parents as participants in decision making. (CB)

The author describes her efforts to engage intermediate grade children in meaningful writing. Her attempts to translate theory and research into classroom practice are discussed. (MT)

Twelve recent books by business-oriented authors are reviewed and translated directly into the educational context. Productive environments and leadership are discussed. Recommendations for education are made. (MT)

Itemizes necessary components for true collaboration and provides a detailed general action plan for establishing and administering partnerships. (JB)