The articles in this Special Topic issue present a range of assessment models and challenges for improving the identification and early intervention of students in need of additional supports. Although each article targets a unique aspect of student learning (learning behaviors, math skills, reading comprehension, behavioral functioning, and…

The staff educator has the broad and objective perspective, the analytical frame of reference, and the neutrality to help nurses see the gaps in their functioning. Staff educators can use their communication and assessment skills to help the nursing work group solve problems more effectively. (Author)

Describes a project that used simulation to help students improve human relations skills. Principles of human relations and skills important to interviewing, listening, interacting, speaking, and report writing were emphasized. (JOW)

This article offers some strategies for closing the linkage between initial needs assessment and the implementation of change. Examined are: prioritizing needs through criteria analysis, developing a cyclical implementation/staff inservice plan, and utilizing an analytical problem solving approach to curriculum and decision making. (Author/RAO)

Elements of a program development model are discussed, including change requirements, maintenance requirements, and development of a problem-solving management plan (identify problems based on needs, determine solution requirements and identify solution alternatives, select solution strategies from among alternatives, implement solution…

A utilization-focused approach in evaluating a problem-solving skills training program (see TM 510 179) would have placed more emphasis on identifying evaluation users, their information needs, and likely use of findings. Other methods options are also discussed, along with how to prepare decision makers for utilization. (Author/BW)

One of a series, this booklet and related programs have been developed to help primary school teachers in England introduce problem solving and investigatory activities to their pupils. The theory of problem solving which underlies the views in this booklet is that of Professor Keith Jackson, director of the Bulmershe-Comino Problem Solving…

Successful in Japan and in American industry, quality circles are a specific way to involve staff members in solving organization problems. A growing number of school administrators are examining this technique to see if it can reduce the costs of education and improve morale. (Author/JM)

Some typical teacher concerns about technology education are explored. Answers reflect the belief that implementing technology education does not require entirely new instruction methods. Concerns explored include (1) use of the project method, (2) specialized equipment, (3) problem-solving, (4) needs of special students, and (5) teacher skills.…

Lessons learned in the development and implementation of an English language training (ELT) project for Indonesian Civil Service workers are discussed. The project, designed to focus on development of English communication skills, was undertaken in cooperation with the state administration agency. Issues and difficulties discussed include:…

It is argued that the failure of change in teacher education results from lack of understanding of the dynamics of change and the organizational features of teacher education, generally subject to external pressure. The role of institutional dimensions of problem solving, decision making, communications, goals, climate, and implementation are…

A task force of community and junior college representatives defined and tested the hypothesis that study of the humanities offers students a way to develop certain skills and attitudes including working with others, solving problems, making decisions, and adapting to changes in the workplace. (JOW)

This paper describes a plan to improve school effectiveness in the Tulsa (Oklahoma) Public Schools by incorporating instruction in thinking skills. The program selected by the school district was the Strategic Reasoning Program, based on Albert Upton's Design for Thinking and J. P. Guilford's Structure of the Intellect. The Strategic Reasoning…

While many states are considering mandating Competency Based Teacher Education (CBTE), certain basic problems should be addressed before official action is taken. Some confusion exists over the exact definition of CBTE and how a state views teacher education will affect the thrust of CBTE programs. The selection of competencies and the…

This publication builds a conceptual framework that categorizes alternative policy instruments for educational reform into actions. It defines four categories of policy instruments and hypothesizes how each will operate in addressing different policy problems in different political and organizational contexts. Subsequent research will assess…