Part of a special issue on organizational research utilization, this article analyzes two National Institute of Education programs--the Research and Development Utilization Program and the Experimental Schools Program--and finds that a key reason for nonutilization of research is the "policy vacuum" in which research is conducted.…

Focuses on how basic research on psychological principles eventually leads to practical classroom programs. A case study is presented of a classroom program based on psychological research. Inferences are made regarding the problems of transforming basic research into practical classroom programs. (Author/DB)

Recent experience of test development in Ireland, which had no tradition of formal standardized testing, is described, in order to highlight a number of practical and psychometric problems. It is pointed out that some conventional procedures for developing norm-referenced attainment tests have limitations, especially in countries with centralized…

The University of Michigan's information technology division has undertaken a data administration function and strategic planning process to ensure the accuracy, integrity, reliability, and accessibility of the institution's data resources. These support both current decision making and future attainment of institutional goals and objectives. (MSE)

Discussion of the need for strategic planning in public libraries highlights a case study of a small resort town library, the Crawford Memorial Library, in Monticello, New York. Deciding on specific library roles and planning their implementation are described, and the importance of environment and competition in strategic planning is explained.…

The initial implementation of the Total Quality Management approach by 10 Boston-area (Massachusetts) institutions is summarized. The institutions include Babson College, Bentley College, Boston College, Boston University, Lesley College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Tufts University, University of Massachusetts at Boston, Wentworth…

The Quality Circle Model of Planning is presented as a program evaluation approach for schools serving students with blindness. The model helps administrators solve problems using creative, innovative approaches; identifies human and monetary resources for successful implementation of the plan; and provides a framework for evaluating the plan's…

Presents a case study designed to help intermediate and advanced students or trainees to adapt traditional instructional design procedures to "real-world" training situations. Scenarios involving a video production company and interactive video are described; and learning outcomes are discussed, including conducting a needs assessment,…

Examines the major elements present in the community and the educational context prior to and during implementation of the Library Power initiative in the Lincoln (Nebraska) Public Schools site. Describes key team members who secured the grant, the educational framework supporting the initiative, and new teams and strategies developed to ensure…

Interactive multimedia training can be delivered via CD-ROM, hard drive, local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), Intranet, Internet and hybrid systems. This article presents a case study of how two companies (Los Angeles Times and Allen Communication) evaluated alternative delivery systems, chose one, and implemented multimedia…

Describes the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of an interactive videodisc exhibit at the San Diego Natural History Museum. Design requirements for museum environments and interactive videodisc-based exhibits are examined, a field evaluation is described, and the adaptation of an instructional design model for museum settings is…

The process of implementing cooperative learning in the classroom was studied over a school year for nine elementary school teachers. Most teachers became increasingly proficient at implementing the student team-achievement divisions type of cooperative learning, but considerable planning and monitoring were needed to ensure success. (SLD)

This article addresses the ongoing need to access the power of self-determination. A definition of self-determination is provided, along with a description of key components. Examples are provided for implementing effective self-determination skills though the use of a case study, an action plan, and list of best practices. (Contains references.)…

Researchers found that a Washington State fourth-grade teacher successfully met the demands of standards-based writing instruction without compromising her teaching stance or diverse students' learning. She instituted 15-minute class meetings to address student problems, read aloud from books with relevant characters, and used innovative,…

This ethnomethodological case study analysis explored and described how The Student Learning Imperative (American College Personnel Association, 1994), Principles of Good Practice for Student Affairs (American College Personnel Association & National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, 1996), and Good Practice in Student Affairs…