This panel study was designed to measure the adoption level over a period of one year for a set of ten reading programs being promoted by NIE/HEW. One panel sample included 200 randomly selected school districts; a second panel sample included 100 school systems that had ordered one or more booklets describing the programs by returning a coupon…

Both linking agents and training consultants can help school systems solve some difficult problems: how to learn about current research and successful programs, and how to adapt and implement promisisng programs. After a successful initial experience obtaining technical assistance from the Network of Innovative Schools, Inc., the Chelsea Public…

Comprehensive school improvement is based on reorganizing and revitalizing the entire school rather than focusing on specific student populations or programs. An overview of 17 schoolwide reform programs is provided in this book. The purpose of the text is to give education leaders basic information about some of the best-known externally…

It is suggested in this paper that practical arguments can be used in teacher education and staff development programs to introduce teachers to research-based practices. Practical arguments consist of three types of premises--value, empirical, and situational--that conclude with an action, or an intention to act. Such arguments are a useful way to…

The field of social innovation policy can presently be seen as divided into two opposing camps: pro-fidelity and pro-adaptation. The former conceptualizes innovations as consisting of a number of relatively well specified components, and argue that rigorously developed, evaluated programs should be implemented with close correspondence to…

By 1969-70 it was clear to a number of development communities at both the state and federal level that education didn't need more programs, but more programs that work. Research and development products that address a wide variety of local needs were available. Over the past four or five years, more research and development funding has been used…

Levels of use of the innovation represent behaviors demonstrated by individuals as they grow in the process of innovation implementation. Eight levels of use have been defined, ranging from lack of knowledge about the innovation through highly sophisticated, impact-oriented use. Operational definitions include seven categories of adopter knowledge…

This guidebook describes procedures followed by National Diffusion Network (NDN) certified trainers when they are helping to disseminate information about the NDN or when they are helping school personnel adopt an NDN program or practice. It is noted that, because NDN certified trainers can help in information dissemination and program…

This study is a technical-behavioral analysis of an accountability system--the educational review program. The purpose of the study was to develop a model that school systems can use in implementing accountability systems. The project explored the idea that when formal management systems are introduced into schools, they ignore individual…

This study is a technical-behavioral analysis of an accountability program based on the planning programming budgeting system (PPBS). The purpose of the study was to develop a model that school systems can use in implementing accountability systems. The project explored the idea that when formal management systems are introduced into schools, they…

Discusses seven general guidelines for deciding whether to adopt a new program: get the facts, hire a consultant, investigate the philosophy and theory, analyze costs, decide if the program has staying power, visit a similar program, and involve teachers. (Author/JM)

The goal of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Educational Research and Dissemination Program was to establish a model for dissemination of educational research to classroom teachers. Research findings focusing on classroom management and teacher effectiveness were translated to individual teachers by Teacher Research Linkers (TRLs) who had…

This study examines the effectiveness of an accountability system--Alter--whose aim is to facilitate long-term planning. The purpose of the study was to develop a model that school systems can use in implementing accountability systems. The project explored the idea that when formal management systems are introduced into schools, they ignore…

Schools can do a much better job of educating students, especially low income and minority students, if they draw on information already available and replicate educational programs that have been successful. Suggestions are made for replicating proven programs. (SLD)

The guide presents strategies for the dissemination of promising vocational education practices into local school districts. The first of four chapters discusses five commonly encountered questions which arise when new practices are considered. For example, the question, "How can I identify worthwhile practices for my school?" is…