This paper examines content-based instruction, which is an integrated approach to language instruction drawing topics, texts, and tasks from content or subject matter classes but focusing on the cognitive, academic language skills needed to participate effectively in content instruction. The intent and design of content-based instructional…

This overview of the issues involved in introducing educational computing into a school system at either the district, building, or classroom level begins by defining the terms "educational computing" and "computer literacy." A discussion of the curriculum development process focuses on the role of educational technologies in…

The fact sheet uses a question-and-answer format to describe key components of Public Law 99-457 (Amendments to the Education of the Handicapped Act), which authorizes a preschool program for children ages 3-5 and an early intervention program for handicapped infants and toddlers. In the area of preschool programs, topics covered include…

Recent statistics show that nationwide about 50 percent of new teachers leave the profession within their first six years of teaching. In an effort to encourage the persistence of new teachers and to enhance their productivity and competence in the classroom, many school districts have begun supportive programs for the beginning teacher, known as…

The School Improvement Through Instructional Process (SITIP) Program, initiated in Maryland in 1980, was concerned with improving classroom and school activities through the application of process-product research on classroom and school effectiveness. All 24 local education agencies voluntarily implemented one or more of four research-based…

This report provides background information about latchkey children. In addition, the report provides general information concerning school-age programs and some of the more readily available resources in North America. Among the issues considered are those which seem to be generating the most concern. These include staffing, qualifications,…

This yearbook provides a readable, usable, and practical summary of the most commonly applied elements of curriculum development on the contemporary educational scene. Separate chapters discuss: (1) "Contemporary Curriculum Circumstances" (Fenwick W. English); (2) "Curriculum Thinking" (George A. Beauchamp); (3) "Curriculum Content" ( B. Othanel…

Reasons for the long-range success of the Los Angeles Community College District's evaluation system for its handicap program are explored in this report, using a force field analysis of facilitating and restraining factors. First, introductory material cites previous reports exploring various aspects of the evaluation system. Next, the following…

In discussing the improvement of schools by using research and development findings, two different outcomes of a change program are considered. One is the effective implementation of new programs through use of available knowledge. The second is the broader issue of achieving school improvement through making the organization more healthy, the…

Empirical research pertaining to the relationship between external agencies' decisions and the implementation of these decisions suggests two conclusions. First, the implementors of change are likely to view externally initiated change with apprehension and resistance, and second, when external agencies initiate change, the result depends on…

Conference speakers focused on three topics: Hispanics and Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) policy and implementation issues; data sources; and research regarding Hispanic manpower. After introductory remarks by James W. Wagener, Eli Ginzberg and Tomas Rivera, Ernest Green discussed Hispanics and CETA. Harry Greenspan described…

Discusses the use of instructional systems design for setting instructional objectives in public schools. Goals for elementary and secondary schools are reviewed, the ways teachers use instructional materials and develop learning activities are described, and prospects on the national, state, and local levels are discussed. (24 references) (LRW)

Introduces the other articles in this special issue. Restructuring the schools to some means changing the "mechanics" of schooling; to others it refers to changes in relations of authority. However, there is uncertainty whether any restructuring will take place because a restructuring program will be difficult to implement. (BJV)

The influence of the communicative approach in determining the direction of curriculum in English as a second language is examined at three levels (theory, materials, and implementation), revealing that the dominance of the communicative approach may be only apparent. (MSE)

Describes a statewide attempt launched in Connecticut in 198l, designed to improve school effectiveness through a systematic process using valid assessment methods founded on emerging research and sound practice. Also summarizes findings of the project's first major evaluation. (Author/GC)