The need for a more efficient use of energy is discussed. Described are energy-conservation strategies and technologies for increasing consumption efficiency. Social obstacles that potentially delay adoption of improvements are considered. (RT)

Proposes a time management framework for those working within social service institutions such as schools. Explains three sequential and interdependent groups of recommendations: (1) self-awareness and self-discipline; (2) organizational awareness and a synchronization of both the institution and the individual; and (3) planning, timetabling,…

The conception, development, and installation of a woodburning heating system at Maryville College, in collaboration with the Tennessee Valley Authority and with funding from several external sources, is described. The system uses waste wood at a cost substantially below other common fuels, and the college may eventually be able to sell excess…

The Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District in northwest Houston has grown extremely fast. During the 2001-2002 school year, an additional 4,000 students were added. Because of this growth, it was difficult for the district to adopt the state model for guidance and counseling programs. Many counselors followed what was recommended but it was…

This document describes how the faculty workload at the 16 selected SUNY (State University of New York) campuses compares with that of other public colleges and universities, and the actions SUNY has taken to ensure optimal teaching workloads. The results indicate that the teaching productivity in most of the 16 SUNY schools compared favorably…

This case analysis describes a program to improve the efficiency with which students in the Adult and Vocational Education Ph.D. program at the University of Connecticut work towards and achieve the doctoral degree. Data gathered between 1985 to 1992 indicated students (who were mostly part-time) dropped out at a 50 percent rate and took 7 to 10…

Many factors enter into the problem of remaking the rural schools, such as well-prepared teachers, satisfactory unit of organization, close and intelligent supervision, and redirected course of study. Of these, none is more important than the first. It is certain that the trained leadership needed in rural districts can not be fully realized until…

Traces efforts to develop a statewide plan for computerized school bus fleet operation by means of questionnaires distributed to all 58 county education offices, 7 regional data processing centers, and selected private school bus contractors and school districts. Findings indicate significant potential savings for fleets of 20 or more busses. (JBM)

Colorado's 22 school districts on a four-day week schedule, as authorized by Colorado Senate Bill 78, show comparable student achievement levels as those on a five-day schedule; support from parents, teachers; and students; improved energy savings and/or time savings; and cost savings. Five other possible benefits are listed. (LC)

Issues of equal educational opportunity are seen to be transformed into issues of effectiveness, efficiency, or cultural pluralism. It is suggested that issues of equal educational opportunity are likely to be resolved only by reducing the capacity of the educational system itself to determine the future and the value of individuals. (MLW)

Discusses factors contributing to the declining U.S. productivity growth rate and compares U.S. production to Germany and Japan. Presents model programs that have recognized the need to develop in people the desire to work, study, improve, and become more productive citizens. (LRA)

Discusses two approaches for evaluating distance education. One collects six categories of evaluation information (measures): activity, efficiency, outcomes, program aims, policy, and organization. The other identifies key questions needed for effective evaluation and methods for determining outcomes in five areas: accountability, effectiveness,…

The University of California at Los Angeles has implemented an innovative computing system based on radical postaudit and distributed security concepts. Rather than automate standard manual processes, the university decided to eliminate all preapproval processes and decentralize access controls. Results include significant cost savings, faster…

Principles of effective research administration originally written over a decade ago are revised to reflect the challenges of a new, technologically advanced, and rapidly changing climate. They now include establishing, communicating, and constantly evaluating the goals of research administration in conjunction with institutional partners;…

Presents a taxonomy of research areas in educational economics and outlines key topics deserving more research attention. Emphasizes documenting the unit cost of education at different schooling levels and curriculum types, along with learning and earning schooling outcomes. Topics needing further research include the screening hypothesis,…