According to Jim Knight, learning something new--such as a new instructional approach or other innovation--and applying it in practice is complex and involves adaptations that take time. Knight describes the five stages he believes people go through in learning and practicing any innovation, from "non-use," gradually up to the stage of…

Peer coaching promises to reduce teachers' isolation, create a professional and collegial school environment, and promote skill transfer from training to the workplace. To help peer coaching achieve these results, several guidelines are presented. Peer coaching programs need administrative support, adequate training, participant trust, and…

What would happen if schools offered all students the same challenges and opportunities that some schools now offer only their "best" students? The Southern Regional Education Board addressed that question in 1987, when it developed the High Schools That Work Model. Blending challenging college-preparatory content with modern vocational and…

Four ingredients critical for successful classroom innovations are described: (1) a well defined "classroom friendly" effective innovation, (2) continuous teacher support, (3) clear direction from administrators, and (4) attention to institutionalization. (MD)

Reading and writing at one New Hampshire school district are considered integrated processes. Writing generates an enthusiasm for reading, and reading creates the impetus for writing. Whole language instruction has produced high reading comprehension scores, an increase in book-reading quality and quantity, and a dramatic drop in special education…

A quiet revolution is underway in six North Carolina schools involved in Project Design--an innovative school restructuring process that is developmental, reasonable, professional, and educationally relevant. The voluntary program features multiple changes in the distribution of time, work responsibilities, decision authority, status, students,…

When a well-conceived combination of innovative learning strategies is used, the results are generally more favorable than those attained using any single strategy. Broadening the scope of planning and implementation will not only help integrate innovations, but will enhance opportunities for collegial sharing. Integration guidelines are provided.…

In many countries, education legislation embodies contradictory pressures for centralization and decentralization. In the United Kingdom, there is growing government control over policy and direction of schools; schools are also being given more responsibility for resource management. "Moving" schools within Improving the Quality of…

Network-based learning, unlike word processing or programming, does not require numerous computers and unlimited connection time. It can motivate students to become involved in a wide range of learning activities. Implementation barriers include infrastructure and access, the telecommunications-curriculum gap, and insufficient support and…

Profiles four successful charter schools. San Diego's O'Farrell Community School provides an enrichment curriculum for inner-city middle schoolers. The Minnesota New Country School, established by three teachers, stresses individual and group projects. Saint Paul's City Academy engages 60 racially diverse youngsters with real-life construction…

A study of instructional change in three schools reveals that a change strategy should take advantage of existing communication networks. Where there is little interdependence among teachers, administrators need to encourage its growth and replace the egg crate form of organization with arrangements that increase teacher interaction. (MLF)

Change strategies must include informal school networks and norms. Implementation plans must involve teachers and principals prior to training. (Author/JM)

Cuban says schools reflect our society's fascination with fads, which increases their vulnerability to pressures from different constituencies. The most long-lasting innovations have avid supporters and equitable intent. Kindergarten and preschool education are prime examples. Policymakers' efforts to change classroom teaching practice usually…