To improve homework quality in the classroom, teachers should clear up homework fogginess and use strategies for success, including creating goal-directed assignments, balancing homework, allowing time to finish assignments, viewing homework-assignment time as part of the learning process, helping students organize their homework, and helping…

A recent cost-benefit analysis was made of reduced class size, increased instructional time, computer-assisted instruction, and peer or cross-age tutoring. Tutoring turned out to have the greatest effect on student learning and to be the most cost effective. Implementation of a successful tutoring program is described. (MT)

Twelve characteristics of effective schools are described, including: (1) academic and social goals; (2) curriculum; (3) rules of conduct; (4) administrator, teacher, and student responsibilities; (5) time on task; and (6) parental and community support. (CJ)

This article discusses a study which confirms that for students to do well on standardized tests, schools and teachers must address how they use time. Suggestions are offered on how teachers can enhance their school learning environment and reduce the amount of time consumed by interruptions and routine activities. (IAH)