Examined the instructional reform process in 17 middle schools. Reforms included heterogeneous grouping, cooperative learning, active learning, and interdisciplinary instruction. All reforms relied on teachers' willingness to change daily instructional content or strategies. Heterogenous grouping and interdisciplinary instruction posed the…

Discusses the importance of values education programs in the public schools, with some emphasis on the program in the Baltimore County Public Schools. The article cites authorities from other school districts, higher education, and educational associations, noting the important role of staff development and community involvement. (SM)

Describes a staff development program for administrators. Interviews were conducted and administrative handbooks, professional development plans, and board of education policies were analyzed. Findings, among others, were principals viewed staff development and clearly defined procedures as essential; principals found little long-range staff…

For three years, Center for Problem-Based Learning at Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy has been developing innovative programs in various K-12 settings. Students meet an "ill-structured problem" (like thorium waste) before receiving instruction. Teachers act as coaches and tutors, probing findings, hypotheses, and conclusions;…

A structured coaching strategy was effectively used with three day-care teachers, resulting in (1) substantial increases in delivery of behavioral support of social interactions of children with developmental disabilities; and (2) marked increases in positive interactions of socially withdrawn children. Long-term maintenance effects were also…

Wisconsin's Multicultural Education Target Schools Project uses strategic planning to address major educational and social issues and determine school-based change. The project involves elementary and middle school educators with large African-American and Hispanic student populations. It develops self-esteem, raises achievement levels, promotes…

Explores the origins, characteristics, and objectives of peer coaching in faculty development, looking at its two basic forms (coaching led by experts and reciprocal coaching). The article presents theoretical concepts and proposes directions for future research, indicating points to consider when establishing a peer coaching program. (SM)

Presents a model for educational change based on the assumption that education requires personal transformation and improved collegial relationships. There are two realities about educational change: many aspects of classroom operation are under teacher control, and teachers have feelings about what they do. The article makes recommendations for…

Describes experiences of the Far West Laboratory for Educational Research and Development in delivering the Peer-Assisted Leadership (PAL) program to North American audiences. PAL's collaborative inquiry helps school administrators analyze and interpret their own leadership as a means of professional growth. Participants receive validation,…

Developed and administered 17-item instrument to assess knowledge of specific mental health problems (depression, agitation, disorientation) and behavioral approaches to them to 191 nurse's aides and 21 clinicians with training in behavioral management and experience with older nursing home residents. Aides averaged 11 correct answers; clinicians…

Issues and concerns in considering school programing needs of children with special health conditions include definition of the population, educational program philosophy, and communication and collaboration. Factors affecting programing for these students include policies for delivery of health care services, personnel training, orientation of…

Five Connecticut school districts formed math research teams to participate in a three-year project involving intensive curriculum evaluation and development. Training and long-term technical assistance provided skills and support for evaluating and revising their math curriculum. Professional development was tied closely to teachers' interest in…

An Iowa project working with elementary students' attitudes toward people with disabilities could be effectively revamped as a teacher inservice program involving discrimination activities, group discussions, films, orientation and observation videos, an overview of Public Law 94-142, and information about support service agencies. Includes 11…

Total Quality Management, based on theories of W. Edward Deming and others, is a style of management using continuous process improvement characterized by mission and customer focus, a systematic approach to operations, vigorous development of human resources, long-term thinking, and a commitment to ensuring quality. The values espoused by this…

Describes the use of the Educational Telecommunications Network to provide inservice teachers with staff development opportunities in history instruction using distance learning concepts. Discusses the role of a site facilitator who uses field support materials provided by the Network. (CFR)