The author discusses problems related to the development of educational programs in developing nations and cautions against the use of sophisticated technological systems without the use of intermediary steps and supporting services. Some topics examined are telecommunication, nonformal education, local needs assessment, and district-level…

Economic, social, and cultural improvements in the non-metropolitan (or rural) areas of the nation are discussed in relation to: The development of community leadership (especially among business trainers), the role of the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), the Land Grant Extension system, business interests, and the need for…

The child care industry has not been fully integrated into economic development activities despite its growing importance in the economy. This is, in large part, because child care is not usually thought of as an element of economic development. As a result, states in the North Central region are not maximizing the economic benefits from quality,…

Today, more Americans volunteer through religious organizations than through any other type of organization and 92 percent of faith-based charities report the ability to take on additional volunteers. The Corporation for National and Community Service is dedicated to ensuring that faith-based and community organizations have the capacity, tools,…

Of the many roles colleges are called upon to play, the role of partner in community development is a significant one. The visibility and importance of this function is particularly evident in rural and remote communities. These locations provide excellent opportunities to examine the dynamics of this interaction, and gain an understanding that…

Rural areas of the world share many common problems, such as a lack of diverse educational and economic development opportunities. This paper argues that only when rural areas develop strong partnerships among organizations with diverse strengths, and these organizations bring some measure of power to these partnerships, will these rural areas be…

In this research report we share results of a study of an adaptation of Lesson Study, a form of professional development typically used in Japanese elementary schools, with secondary mathematics teachers in the United States. We draw on Wenger's (1998) concept of "communities of practice" and Grossman, Wineberg, and Woolworth's (2001)…

This study began as an attempt to establish a baseline to evaluate a project to build school community. A School Community Survey was administered to parents and teachers in seven demonstration schools (six elementary and one middle school), and the principals of these schools completed a needs assessment. A total of 168 teachers and 945 parents…

In the current tight fiscal environment, it is critical for state and community leaders to think broadly and systematically about how to finance important education, family, and child services, and community development initiatives. This guide presents a conceptual framework for financing child and family services and community building and…

This paper illustrates how libraries, museums, and other cultural heritage institutions are natural allies in developing and delivering public education and community service programs for lifelong learners of all ages. The paper opens by discussing how Robert S. Martin, Director of the National Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), has…

This document contains the proceedings of the International Best of Both Worlds Conference presented by the University of South Africa, Vista University, and the South African College of Education. Papers include: (1) "A Strategy for the Implementation of Environmental Education in the Intermediate and Secondary School Phases in South…

This booklet describes the CORAL (Communities Organizing Resources To Advance Learning) program within five California communities: Pasadena, Long Beach, San Jose, Fresno, and Sacramento. This initiative, begun in 1999, is committed to a community-based and community-building approach to supporting learning and focuses on improving academic…

Critical to the success of current efforts to reform and restructure education and other community supports and services to improve the lives of children and their families is the way in which they are financed. This report of The Finance Project focuses on ways of using tax policies to help build strong local communities that can support families…

leadership training for teen-agers, offered through the University of Missouri Extension Division, prepares teens to plan and teach six-lesson summer courses in practical skills to younger children in their own neighborhoods or in camps. Plans are approved by Extension Centers, each completed lesson reported, and Teen Teacher Diplomas awarded. (AJ)

Wright State University in Dalton, Ohio, seeks to serve and relate to the Dalton community by working toward harmony and educational renewal with the public schools. (DS)