Describes the assumptions and goals of the Performance Effectiveness Management System (PEMS) of the University of Arizona Library and explains how to integrate performance measurement with a new system that focuses on teams and organizational outcomes. Phases of PEMS include: mission-critical services, programs, and activities; setting quality…

Summarizes findings of two upcoming reports on programs that support and strengthen the academic achievement of under-represented student groups at both K-12 and postsecondary levels. The most successful programs at both K-12 and postsecondary levels were those which were comprehensive, extended over a long period of time, and bridged educational…

A drug prevention program involving 167 at-risk students in grades 8-10 at 9 Ontario schools resulted in reduced use of and less supportive attitudes toward alcohol, cannabis, tobacco, and tranquilizers. Program success is attributed to high attendance and retention, community health professionals' participation, comprehensive approach, strong…

Outcome data are provided for a national evaluation of Learn and Serve America School and Community-Based Programs and the Florida Learn and Serve program for 1995-96. Both national and Florida state data show positive effects, including improved attendance, improved academic achievement, and better attitudes for Learn and Serve participants. (SLD)

Analysis of limited research on evaluation of postgraduate scholarship programs looked at indicators used, focusing on the four most common: awarded diploma; obtained job; obtained related job; and pursuing studies. Several methodological pitfalls in comparing assessment results are identified. Overall, results tend to show scholarship programs…

Documents the longitudinal achievement growth of Chapter I students based on nationally representative data from the Prospects Study, which focuses on two- and three-year patterns of Chapter I participation for as many as 40,000 students in three grade cohorts. Overall, significant positive results generally were restricted to the more advantaged…

Describes the North Dakota School for the Blind's shift from traditional residential services to an emphasis on an expansive outreach service network that serves the vision-specific needs of students in their local schools. The results of a program survey of 24 educators and parents are discussed. (CR)

A survey of 299 eighth-grade students who had attended a school-operated two-day residential program during grade six at Durham Forest (Uxbridge, Ontario) Outdoor and Environmental Education Centre showed fulfillment of 8 of the 10 program objectives. Each objective is analyzed with student responses in narrative and graph format. (SAS)

Using data from three sites, a study examined service use and expenditures under systems-of-care. The sites provided children with a full range of mental health services. Per-child expenditures were high, but for two sites, those expenditures were within the range of expenditures in other innovative attempts at service delivery. (Contains…

This article describes components of co-teaching and gives examples of what the teacher interactions of that component may resemble at each developmental stage of co-teaching: the beginning stage, the compromise stage, and the collaborative stage. The Coteaching Rating Scale is presented for examining the effectiveness of co-teaching classrooms.…

Describes the reading styles of a group of first graders. Explains how mumbling reading gradually develops into silent reading. Provides an overview of the Project on Mumbling Reading and evaluates its effectiveness. Claims that more information is still needed for the development of silent reading and provides strategies to encourage the use of…

This study evaluated a social skills training program with 18 deaf children (ages 9 to 13) in mainstream settings in three elementary schools in the Canary Islands. It found the intervention improved students' social problem solving skills and their assertive skills. However, no significant differences in social or academic integration as judged…

A smoking prevention program for Hispanic immigrants in Canada was based on participatory community planning, cultural sensitivity, and a comprehensive health philosophy. After 12 educational sessions, participating children aged 8-14 engaged in more community activism and showed decreased intentions to smoke. Parents, children, and staff were…

Investigated student and cooperating teachers' experiences within traditional and Professional Development School (PDS) programs, analyzing their attitudes regarding problems, benefits, and program components. Participants encountered similar problems. Differences emerged in how programs provided support and guidance. Program features contributed…

A survey of 140 parents of Nevada 4-H members found that 4-H programs successfully taught a variety of life skills to youth. Active members learned more about life skills than less active members, although all showed gains. The quality of adult leadership skills and the instructional effectiveness of 4-H competitions and projects were highly…