Describes the author's experiences in serving as a program evaluator for an Engineering Criteria 2000 accreditation visit and preparing for the visit to her own department. Examines how constituency "buy-in" and closing of the improvement loop affect evaluation and institutionalization of a program improvement process. (Contains 16 references.)…

Expands on ideas presented in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) study "Innovation in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education" (SMTE) where 23 projects aimed at enhancing the appeal of these three school subjects. Discusses the implications of the SMTE reform efforts on teaching practices and how…

Reviews the history of the University Without Walls concept of continuing and adult education from its inception in 1981 to the current activities of the International Council for Innovation in Higher Education (ICIE). Identifies current issues, including technology and improving access to continuing education for adults throughout the world. (DB)

Defends the existence of a synergy between research and education, which requires the acceptance of two principles: (1) education of engineers as the creation of a pro-innovation attitude; and (2) research as an open-minded compromising attitude with progress of valuable knowledge. Argues that research-oriented centers are better-prepared to boost…

Education has been traditionally shaped by a narrow conception of purpose, human capacity, and learning and assessment frameworks. A new pedagogy of capability for active citizenship will reconnect learning to living as responsible citizens, understand learners' needs, enrich understanding of human potential, and promote active and reflective…

A study investigated medical students' opinions of curriculum reform efforts at eight United States and two Canadian medical schools. At all schools, students appreciated reform efforts that encouraged individuation, connection, and diversity. Enrollees at smaller schools with more distinctly teaching-service missions objected to extensive…

Describes an innovation designed to capitalize on certain benefits of concept maps. Uses computer software with preservice teachers to enable them to construct concept maps that represent their own subject matter knowledge. Contains 21 references. (DDR)

Describes the North Dakota School for the Blind's shift from traditional residential services to an emphasis on an expansive outreach service network that serves the vision-specific needs of students in their local schools. The results of a program survey of 24 educators and parents are discussed. (CR)

This commentary reacts to an article that presented an agenda for educational change to encourage early childhood inclusion. It calls for a leadership agenda for the nation, agreement about inclusion as a feasible program model, development and dissemination of effective practices and evidence-based guidelines, family involvement, and increased…

Provides a speech that was presented to the National Art Education Association national convention on March 26, 1999, that focused on (1) the changes in art education; (2) the disappointments and lessons learned from failed attempts at innovation; and (3) the issues that will be faced in the future of arts education. (CMK)

Despite threats from charters and vouchers, the Edmonton (Alberta) Public Schools are parents' first choice because they address the community's changing needs. Boasting 20 years of experience in alternative programming and open boundaries, Edmonton has introduced two dozen innovative programs, focused on student achievement, and experienced…

Examines the effectiveness of Accelerated School Programs (ASPs) on the basis of a study of four comprehensive schools in Israel. Assesses the influence of ASPs upon internal school processes, such as school goals, structures, and cultures, as perceived by school staff. Determines the project's impact on staff and parents' attitudes, and examines…

A partnership for medical student education and community health improvement between the Medical College of Wisconsin and a rural Wisconsin area illustrates four stages of partnership development and advantages over traditional student placement. Two elements key to such partnerships are long-term commitment and the ability and willingness of…

The idea that schools seldom change is debunked as a myth and discussed in terms of two types of change (incremental and fundamental) that have marked the history of public schools. This myth has also affected the education of children with disabilities, particularly concerning judgment of the success or failure of innovations. Suggestions for…

Examines the role of teachers in an increasingly technology-based world. Highlights potential clashes between administrators and teachers with regard to the classroom uses of technology. Indicates that teachers must become learners once again if they are to fulfill their new role as facilitators in the technology-enriched classroom. (MAB)