An emergent data analysis technique was employed to test the veracity of a conceptual framework constructed around visual data use and instruction in science classrooms. The framework incorporated all five key components Vosniadou (2007a, 2007b) described as existing in a learner's schema: framework theory, presuppositions, conceptual domains,…

A district-level reform model created by the Center for Data-Driven Reform in Education (CDDRE) provided consultation with district leaders on strategic use of data and selection of proven programs. Fifty-nine districts in seven states were randomly assigned to CDDRE or control conditions. A total of 397 elementary and 225 middle schools were…

The paper describes a decision making model for planning and implementing an integration program for exceptional children. Four phases are addressed (sample steps in parentheses): (1) information gathering (functional skills assessment), (2) information synthesis (long range goals), (3) program implementation (individualized education program…

It is critical for schools and districts engaged in a comprehensive school-reform process to develop a schoolwide or districtwide strategy, one that affects teaching and learning, governance, and professional development. Researchers studying school-reform processes have noted that different types of models suit different schools differently.…

Based on Leviton and Hughes' conceptualization of variable clusters that affect evaluation utilization, a procedure for measuring utilization potential was developed. Five clusters of variables are consistently related to utilization: relevance, credibility, communication, information processing, and user involvement and advocacy. The…

U.S. program model designs used for children who are gifted were analyzed for their potential applications for rural schools of developing countries such as South Africa. Program trends and practices are identified from analysis of 100 descriptive and experimental studies of the last 10 years. A bibliography of the studies is included. (SW)

This paper presents an analysis of the factors influencing human decision making, and its implications for the judgments and choices that result from juxtaposition of data with decision content. The analysis serves as a background for the consideration of selected issues regarding the specificity of information in data-based decision making in…

Data from interviews with elementary school principals are examined for insights into the impact of administrative style on evaluation utilization. Characteristics of 23 principals' administrative styles are classified as being either "compliance" (CO) or "non-compliance" (NCO) oriented. CO principals are characterized by the following: (1)…

The Documentation and Technical Assistance Project (DTA) was created, in part, to test a premise related to educational problem-solving. It was hypothesized that knowledge gained through on-site documentation of school level problem solving practices could be transformed for utilization (linkage) by other schools and communities to improve the…

The objective of this paper is to consider alternative frameworks for the description and analysis of linking agents' roles and functions and to explore the implications of the frameworks for linkage training and support. Section 1 draws attention to the variety of terms and contexts used in the literature on educational knowledge utilization and…

This paper describes the Florida Linkage System (FLS), which was designed to help schools throughout the state improve their problem-solving processes and knowledge utilization. While the system's goals are listed and a model for its linkage strategy is outlined, the major portion of the report discusses three findings about the linkage strategy…

Several conceptions of schooling are outcome-bound: input-output models, school effectiveness models, classroom learning models, and systems theory models. Problems with each of these conceptions are identified, followed by a brief discussion of an outcome-free approach in which schools are viewed as cultural ecologies. (BW)

Argues that ignorance is a better criterion than truth for determining the usefulness of knowledge generated through educational research. Implications for conceptualizing and teaching research are discussed, illustrating how attention to ignorance can increase understanding in areas such as practitioner research and cooperative research. (SLD)

A number of organizational, personal and methodological characteristics have been identified through the literature which inhibit or can be used to facilitate the use of evaluation and testing information. Inhibitors of information usage include organizational characteristics such as loosely coupled and decentralized systems, personal…

Intended for use by both teachers and teacher-librarians, this guide for teaching library and information skills presents a five-step model for the research process: (1) planning the research project; (2) searching for relevant information; (3) selecting and evaluating the information found as it relates to the project; (4) presenting the results;…