Effectiveness of a training model in a leadership training program for Head Start personnel was assessed quantitatively and qualitatively for 31 participants. Results demonstrate positive effects on perceived competence, the quality of teaching practices, and the organizational climate of Head Start centers. Case studies further support these…

This paper describes a successful model of supported employment developed by a single small agency previously providing services as a segregated day activity center. Included is discussion of the service agency, program methodology, barriers to successful community-based employment, manner in which barriers were overcome, program outcomes, and…

Similarities between the relationship of student and teacher and that of the social work client and practitioner are considered. Parallels between the worker-client interaction and the teacher-student exchange are drawn and the theories, skills, and techniques for working with clients can also be applied to students because the dynamics of human…

A study of the introduction of university staff performance appraisal in three British universities (n=277 administrators and faculty in various departments) found generally favorable opinions, with some concerns about methods and frequency of evaluation and about lack of follow-up on appraisal results. (MSE)

It is proposed that there are four ways higher education can contribute to the educational reform movement: (1) development of new academic standards and assessment methods; (2) higher priority for teacher education; (3) cooperation with schools to improve college preparation and enrollment rates; and (4) more political and financial support. (MSE)

Identifies key concepts of cooperative curriculum planning processes involving classroom teachers and teacher-librarians. The history of cooperation and the linear approach to planning are described. A rationale for an approach based on mutual respect for teachers' personal practical knowledge for exploring curriculum potential is proposed.…

Discusses problems confronting school library media centers, including a lack of telephones for computer network access, a lack of professional personnel, and a lack of flexible scheduling. It is suggested that leadership roles, as well as membership in local and national organizations, are necessary to address these issues. (LRW)

This study examined three measures to determine which would provide the most useful information on changes in prospective teachers' conceptions of effective teaching: concept maps of effective teaching, computerized repertory grid interviews on teacher characteristics, or critiques of a videotaped teaching episode. Concept maps proved the most…

It is proposed that heavy regulation by Great Britain's Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education may actually limit rather than enhance quality because of its emphasis on quantity and balance, not process. Components needed for raising quality exist in the system but need radical readjustment. Suggestions for improvement are made.…

Discusses diversity in educational reform and U.S. teacher education. The article presents distinctive theoretical and methodological approaches from various U.S. teacher education programs, noting most of them focused on diversity before the school reform movement began. Teachers are encouraged to devote themselves to teaching as a pre- and…

A proposed charter of academic freedom and institutional autonomy in Australian higher education is examined, including the origins of the proposal, interests of staff and management, international political context of the proposal, history and values of the academic freedom concept, role of Australian universities, and faculty association role.…

Recommendations are made for improving the existing child protection system by consideration of children as legal persons, parental duty instead of parental rights, and the state's duty. Solutions involve recognizing what works, developing political astuteness, marketing child protective services as a business, balancing centralization and…

Despite the effectiveness of vaccinations in preventing disease, preschool children, particularly in the inner cities, are not being adequately immunized. Inadequate clinic staff and hours, inconvenient locations, prohibitive policies, and missed opportunities within the health care system may contribute to this problem. Suggests policy changes…

Examined effects of multimodal counseling program Succeeding in School with potential dropouts (N=98) in grades six to eight. Found Succeeding in School program seemed to have positive influence on middle school students' attitudes toward school. (ABL)

Boston University and the Chelsea School System (Massachusetts), which the university took over a year ago, have had a difficult first year marked by substantial administrative changes and bad feelings among the university, community, and previous district administration. The debate over the university's direct management style is expected to…