There are definitely individual reports of block schedule proving disastrous over traditional scheduling, so it is no wonder that school leaders would enter into it cautiously. This paper discusses the impact of implementing a Block Schedule on operating costs, curriculum issues, and early student graduation, as well as other problems that might…

Describes positive and negative school district experiences with block scheduling. (PKP)

This book is an incredibly valuable resource to anyone involved in building a master schedule. The author provides a comprehensive description of the processes involved and makes the reader aware of what needs to be considered and done throughout the process. One of the most time-consuming tasks for school leaders is creating a master schedule…

In 2004, South Charlotte Middle School (SCMS), Charlotte, North Carolina, was named "A School to Watch" by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform. One of the program components cited as highly successful by the visiting committee representing the Forum was the provision of an enrichment period called the ninth block. Ninth…

Many postsecondary institutions utilize learning communities to increase social engagement and attachment to the college community. In recent years, these communities have proliferated as part of a trend fueled by low retention and persistence rates, increasing reluctance of 4-year institutions to provide remedial education, and pressure on…

When learning, students yearn for meaning, challenge, and relevance. Integrated learning fulfills these desires by limiting the compartmentalization of learning--providing a more coherent learning environment. Too often, mathematics and the physical sciences are taught as separate entities. Yet, many commonalities exist, especially between…

Despite the popularity of schedule modifications as a cost-effective reform to improve student outcomes, little empirical research on the consequences of alternative schedules has been conducted. The literature has been dominated by anecdotal reports. Even when empirical evidence is examined, causal comparisons of school outcomes between schedules…

Developing a block schedule and surviving its first year of implementation require an open mind, a flexible spirit, and commitment. Discusses the basics of block scheduling; curricular alignment, course development, and unit design; pacing guides for time management; instruction strategies and lesson designs; classroom management; advanced…

Describes the benefits of block scheduling whereby class periods are lengthened and more courses are offered. Notes that increasing numbers of schools are trying them. Includes the most common block schedule formats. (JOW)

Compares the effects of traditional and block schedules on the academic achievement of high school students with and without disabilities. Finds no difference in academic achievement for either students with or those without disabilities whether enrolled in highs schools with traditional scheduling or those with block scheduling. (Contains 3…

Four-year longitudinal study prepared for board of education evaluates the influence of block scheduling on high school academic achievement in a small, midwestern city. Finds evidence of positive relationship between block scheduling and improved achievement in academic subject areas. (Contains 10 references.) (PKP)

Argues that the alleged effectiveness of block scheduling does not appear to rest on any meaningful research base. Discusses research on block scheduling, student achievement and attitudes toward learning, and teachers' and parents' attitudes. Notes that in the absence of data, educators should be cautious in reconfiguring the education of tens of…

Using a low-inference observational instrument, the authors empirically described and compared pedagogical behaviors in bilingual and structured English-immersion programs serving Spanish-speaking English language learners in a large urban school district in Southeast Texas. The two programs included both intervention/control of each type during…

Results are presented from a mixed-method investigation into the effects of Block Schedule on student self-efficacy, attitude, and instructional practices within the context of mathematics. Students exposed to block schedule showed no change in attitude toward mathematics, whereas those on a traditional schedule demonstrated a significant…

The discussion that transpired in Fremont, Nebraska, over one academic year depicted faculty's struggles and growth as they wrestled with their school's significant change to block scheduling. Conversations demonstrate a staff moving from block-implementation stresses in the first quarter to a focus on teaching and learning in the fourth quarter.…