The Mastery-Based Learning Collaborative (MBLC) is a demonstration project taking place in 47 schools across Washington to help decision makers understand what quality mastery-based (or competency-based) learning looks like, how long it takes to implement, and what resources are necessary. The schools receive funding, coaching, and professional…

Over the course of six years, a diverse group of school districts and charter management organizations in California ran a substantial experiment in implementing the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in elementary and middle grades. WestEd led an extensive evaluation of that effort, the California K-8 NGSS Early Implementers Initiative,…

An approach to college faculty development based on the perceived needs of the faculty is recommended over the traditional faculty development approach for its capacity to accommodate varied needs and changing circumstances. A concerns-based program model in place at Massey University (New Zealand) is offered as illustration. (Author/MSE)

The purpose for conducting this evaluation was to gather and report information on the degree to which the K-6 Science program for San Diego (California) City School children was meeting the needs for which it was designed. The goals of the evaluation include the following: (1) to describe the K-6 science program as it currently exists in…

The three undergraduate schools of Columbia University work together to plan and finance free excursions with students, hosted by faculty and administrators, in and around New York City. An evaluation indicates that, although the program does not generate substantial student-faculty interaction, it is well received by students and faculty, for…

The University of Minnesota's required six-week ambulatory medicine clerkship provides a comprehensive orientation to ambulatory care through planned integration of patient care with academic work. Responses of both students and faculty have been enthusiastic, with the benefits compensating for high costs in preceptor time. (MSE)

In 1985, Apple Computer, Inc., and the Houston Independent School District began a project to create a model School of the Future at the F. M. Black Middle School. As described in this guide, the project was designed to demonstrate how microcomputers and related technology can make the process of instruction more efficient and effective. The…

A three-hour workshop that succeeds in overcoming medical faculty's reluctance to participate in educationally relevant situations is described. The program's strength is seen in increased faculty sensitivity to limitations of their teaching approach and awareness of the role of their concept of teaching. Workshop weaknesses are also discussed.…

Research on teacher and school effectiveness indicates that higher expectations for student achievement are part of a pattern of differential attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors characterizing teachers and schools that are effective in maximizing their students' learning gains. This resource document reviews research that indicates how differential…

Efforts of Ball State University (Indiana) to internationalize its curriculum are described, focusing on the process used to develop a curriculum and on program considerations. Major problems addressed were student attitudes, faculty expectations, and institutional budgetary constraints. Goals were identified for the curriculum, faculty/student…

Educators should recognize both the special needs of single-parent students and their parents and be aware of child custody laws and the school's responsibility for a child's safety when parents divorce. Such measures as extended care programs and informal discussion between school staff and parents help ensure equal treatment in the education…

A study of the faculty evaluation system at Nene College (England) is reported and compared with studies in other British universities. Evaluator, faculty, and administrator views of the program were generally positive, particularly concerning the opportunities the evaluation interviews present for discussing issues. Assessment by line manager…

Asserts that art teachers must be prepared to understand and work with persons with disabilities. Describes a one-semester pilot program for art education students designed to examine what kinds of academic preparation and practicum experiences are needed. (CFR)

The experience of King's College (Pennsylvania) in integrating resource-based learning and information literacy into its curriculum shows that such an effort is an evolutionary process. Lessons learned about faculty interest, use of staff time, the need for ongoing change, technological change, and assessment may help other institutions. (MSE)

The Content Area Learning/Reading Project at the Cosgrove Junior High School in Spencerport, New York, was initiated in the fall of 1979. The goals of the project were to foster effective instruction in all classrooms and to promote instruction based on sound principles and practices as indicated by research and by review of successful content…