Purpose: This policy brief, the second AERI-NEPC eBrief in the series "Understanding validity issues around the world", focuses on validity as it applies to test-based models of evaluation employed for schools, instructional programs, and teachers around the world. It discusses validity issues that could arise when data from student…

This review includes recent research that manipulated features of cooperative learning as well as studies of the relationship between interaction in small groups and outcomes. The analysis examines the kinds of discourse that are productive for different types of learning and moves toward studies of task and interaction. (SLD)

This literature review focuses on the application of technology (primarily the computer) to education. No single vision drives the infusion of technology into the schools, although social, vocational, pedagogic, and catalytic rationales have been proposed. Technology has a role in school restructuring by standardizing and automating procedures.…

This issue brief provides an overview of the importance of providing educators with initial training and continuing professional development opportunities in gender-fair teaching. The brief describes recent research revealing that 20 years after the passage of sex discrimination in education legislation, American schools still engage in…

Following a literature review, this article offers a model of staff development including multiple demonstrations of innovations, opportunities for practice in the training setting; and coaching to facilitate transfer and integration. Application of the model in a low-income, low-achievement school and implications for the Regular Education…

Both the current school reform and standards movements call for enhanced quality of instruction for all learners. Recent emphases on heterogeneity, special education inclusion, and reduction in out-of-class services for gifted learners, combined with escalations in cultural diversity in classrooms, make the challenge of serving academically…

This paper has three focuses: it summarizes the overall trends and issues in educational computing research; it assesses the problems and promise of educational technology in plans for school restructuring and reform; and it draws implications from these perspectives for teacher education. The research review is organized into four categories:…

This monograph presents a synthesis of the literature on the educational tools and procedures used with students who have severe intellectual disabilities. The review focuses on how: (1) the goals of education for students with severe intellectual disabilities are consistent with the educational goals of all students; (2) current school reform…

This loose-leaf compendium includes three types of brief research summaries: "topical synthesis,""close-ups," and "snapshots." The single topical synthesis is entitled "School-Based Management" (Kathleen Cotton). Close-ups consist of brief definitions and essential research findings on the following topics:…

Seven conference papers discuss English language training and political development in Asia, including language project design and evaluation, counterparting, sustainability, appropriate technology, and languages and the politics of development. Papers included are: "Linguistic and Cultural Considerations of Writing ELT Texts for Use in…