Many options exist for using technology as a tool for adult learning, and each day, it becomes easier to share information online than it ever has been. Online learning technology has grown from one-sided communications to numerous options for audience engagement and interactivity. This guide introduces a variety of tools, online platforms, and…

One component of the recently required State Systemic Improvement Plan (SSIP) for State Departments of Education calls for the selection and implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs). This report provides six steps to guide the process of selecting evidence based practices (EBP): (1) Begin with the End in Mind--Determine Targeted Outcomes;…

Beginning teachers face significant challenges as they assume the complex work of teaching while they are still learning to teach. In addition to the activities involved with learning to effectively teach, they must also learn to work with others; collaborate with colleagues, administrators, paraprofessionals, and parents; and manage varied…

Crises affect schools across the country every day. While natural hazards such as tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes may be thought of more commonly as emergencies, schools are also at risk from other hazards such as school violence, infectious disease, and terrorist threats. Through the vulnerability assessment process, schools can…

Each fall, thousands of eager freshmen descend on college and university campuses expecting the best education imaginable: inspiring classes taught by top-ranked professors, academic advisors who will guide them to a prestigious job or graduate school, and an environment where learning flourishes outside the classroom as much as it does in lecture…

America has a serious weight problem. Two-thirds of adults and nearly one-fifth of children in the United States are overweight, placing them at greater risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases including cancer and arthritis. Furthermore, obesity and its related health problems are placing a major strain on the U.S. health care…

Digital projectors are becoming a common sight in U.S. schools. A projector can serve many roles, from letting teachers give tours of educational Web sites to having students present their projects to the entire class. With this trend come questions: Which projection technology is the most cost-effective? Which requires the least maintenance? How…

Offers seven tips for finding and working with an effective glass contractor. For example, schools should consider the company's reputation and longevity of service, and whether it has in-house engineering capabilities. (EV)

Discusses factors for schools to consider when deciding on a lighting system: purchase price, installation charges, maintenance costs, energy costs, and ensuring optimal educational environment. Presents best practices in these areas. (EV)

Explores planning and design issues that should be considered when selecting school furniture, fixtures, and equipment, including aesthetics, function, and flexibility. (EV)

Describes a process for evaluating career education activities. Discusses the selection of the evaluation sample, selection and development of instruments, data reduction and analysis, comparison standards, and preparation of an evaluation handbook. (JOW)

Discusses the many factors schools and universities should consider when purchasing furniture, including its impact on the learning environment. (EV)

Offers advice on choosing between carpet or vinyl tile (VCT) for college buildings, including issues such as maintenance, acoustics, safety, and aesthetics. (EV)

Discusses the options in furnishings for school auditoriums and provides tips for decision-making. (EV)

Provides criteria for comparing computerized career guidance and information systems, including SIGI, DISCOVER II, C-LECT, CHOICES, MicroSKILLS, GIS, and Career/College Scan. (Author/BH)