The Mohawk College diploma program in occupational therapy featured problem-based small group learning and nontraditional fieldwork placements. When Mohawk's program was phased out in 1986, its philosophy was integrated into new bachelor's degree programs at McMaster University. (SK)

Describes the University of New Mexico's College of Education, examining difficult circumstances under which reform is occurring. The paper highlights strategies used to accomplish change, including destabilization; new communication patterns; organizational structure; new faculty hiring; external support for the college; curriculum change;…

This article reviews key findings from school-reform studies of the 1980s on sustained use of effective teacher practices in the classroom and explains their relevance to special education. Recent findings are also highlighted and unresolved issues are identified. An appendix lists sustainability factors and issues. (Contains references.)…

Explores the question of whether and how legal and curricular structure of the German school system demonstrates that, since the mid 1950s, innovative impulses have come from immigration. Focuses on developments in language education and legal and curricular options. (CMK)

Discussion of technology focuses on instructional technology. Topics include inquiry and technology; curriculum development; reflection and curriculum evaluation; criteria for technological innovations that will increase student motivation; standards; impact of new technologies on library media centers; software; and future trends. (LRW)

Reports on a revisit to the Frank Lloyd Wright Middle School, which implemented strategies to deal with disciplinary problems. The school continues to progress towards creating the type of reclaiming environment necessary to ensure the needs of all students. Strategies used include alternatives to zero tolerance policy; smaller teams of students;…

Describes the development of alternative assessments being used successfully at two North Carolina elementary schools, noting the active participation of teachers in their development. From commonalities among the assessments, a seven-step, practice-based model was adapted and evaluated. The model highlights faculty buy-in, leadership, staff…

Describes the advantages of using a World Wide Web-based discussion board as the organizational center for a college chemistry course. Discusses implementation of the "ChemBoard" at Hope College in Michigan and student reactions to the innovation. (WRM)

Innovative solutions to local problems in Appalachia were highlighted at the 1999 Ideas That Work conference. Presentation summaries focus on computer literacy and access to computers for middle school students, collaborative services for preschool children, youth programs, motivating students to attend college, training and technical assistance…

This commentary on "Accountability for All Students: Kentucky's Alternate Portfolio Assessment for Students with Moderate and Severe Cognitive Disabilities" (Kleinert and others), points out that Kentucky includes the assessment scores or results in the larger accountability system of the school and state. Noteworthy components and…

This response to comments on "Accountability for All Students: Kentucky's Alternate Portfolio Assessment for Students with Moderate and Severe Cognitive Disabilities" (Kleinert and others), discusses changes in the ways Alternate Portfolios are now scored and answers concerns on the inclusion of students with mild and severe disabilities…

This article discusses some of the major challenges school districts face in implementing functional behavioral assessments (FBAs). A school improvement initiative, "Success4," is presented to illustrate an Iowa approach. Arguments are presented for fundamental changes in order to enhance school district effectiveness and accountability…

Maintains that visually enhanced musical performances provide an exciting and creative aspect of musical production. Explains that the conductor should choose a musical selection that offers concrete visual opportunities, focus on visual images, choose video excerpts, and use dance if possible. Finds that many visual techniques used by marching…

Describes the Practising Integration in Science Education (PING) project that develops teaching and learning materials aiming to change the philosophy of German science education as well as teaching strategies. Discusses the collaborative approach used within the project and the outcomes from the study undertaken by the Organisation for Economic…

Describes the results from an implementation study that focused on the introduction of a technology course in Dutch junior secondary schools as part of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development project. Observes that almost no cooperation occurred between science and technology teachers and elaborates on these problems in detail.…