This digest explains five homework strategies appropriate for use with students who have disabilities and which are supported by research. These strategies are: (1) give clear and appropriate assignments (specific tips from both teachers and students are offered); (2) make homework accommodations (eight common accommodations are listed); (3) teach…

This study aimed to describe, compare, and analyze the use of specific types of data utilized in decision-making by administrators of more and less effective community colleges. The study utilized a modified version of Kim Cameron's "Assessment of Organizational Effectiveness on Higher Education" to measure and rank community college…

Three kinds of educational research--scientific, analytic, and interpretive--are examined, and the type of inservice activity most closely related to each is discussed. Effective teaching is defined in terms of a direct instructional model for delivering skills to students. Inservice can improve teacher effectiveness by modifying teacher behavior.…

Discusses the functions of the educational psychologist in improving classroom instruction, including assessment, dissemination of research findings, conducting applied research, evaluation, and systems analysis. Summarizes some important educational research findings and dimensions of systems analysis evaluation. (RC)

Studies the changes taking place in the way social work is developing and using knowledge for practice. Explores how the profession has moved toward scientifically or empirically based practice. Points out new forms of knowledge already available practitioner. (Author/JAC)

Based on Strasser and Deniston's guidelines (TM 504 251), the author discusses pre-planned and post-planned program evaluation decisions based on: (1) attitude of the organization being evaluated; (2) availability of resources; and (3) usefulness of the findings for programmatic decision making. (MH)

In an interview with Albert H. Quie, governor of Minnesota, he gives his opinion about the impact of research studies or educational evaluation on policy decision making in Congress, and the role of Congressional Committee staff members. (MH)

Discusses the appropriateness of applying diffusion theory to the study of five factors that influence school library development globally: (1) the evolution of, acceptance of, and consensus on a viable service-delivery model; (2) influence exercised by professional organizations; (3) generation of acceptable standards; (4) overt government…

Provides an overview of the current practices and controversies concerning educational research in the United Kingdom. Addresses issues including lack of adequate evidence and the hindering effects of fragmentation and isolation. Offers suggestions for improving professionalism and discusses the efforts of the British Educational Research…

Reports on a class project that combined an examination of social class and political power with an introduction to sociological research. The project consisted of compiling biographical profiles of cabinet members from the Ronald Reagan, George Bush, and Bill Clinton administrations. Introduces students to issues of conceptualization,…

This paper identifies specific classroom management strategies for children with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) that have been supported by research, and offers evidence that these strategies are not being effectively implemented in classrooms. It suggests that classroom management strategies in experimental studies may not match the…

A follow-up was conducted 10 years after a study of teacher evaluation practices in the 100 largest US school districts to determine changes since 1987. Responses from 68 districts show that teacher evaluation practices and policies at the local level usually still do not incorporate important research findings. (SLD)

This review provides an updated synthesis on peer tutoring research focusing on school-age students with mental retardation serving as tutors and/or tutees. The focus included peer tutoring implementations in the areas of academic, social, and daily living/self-help skills. Results of the 52 studies were categorized and discussed according to…

Describes educational research, development programs, and information services offered by Appalachia Educational Laboratory (AEL) in West Virginia. Describes AEL's use of ERIC, and examples of linking educational services for Appalachian schools. Describes West Virginia's Project TEACH, an elementary computer education project, and other…

Reviews the historical record of cooperative collection development activities and identifies fundamental problems that have hampered these activities. An argument is made for the need to implement a resource network approach which emphasizes short term need and resources as opposed to long range planning. (20 references) (CLB)