The purpose of this paper is to propose a framework for conceptualizing and assessing fidelity of implementation (FOI) in the context of a cluster-randomized design study. A research-validated mathematics curriculum for preschool children called Numbers Plus is used as an example to describe the role of curriculum implementation fidelity in the…

The replication of proven social programs is a cost-effective and efficient way to achieve large-scale, positive social change. Yet there has been little guidance available about how to approach program replication and limited development of systems--at local, state or federal levels--to support replication efforts. "Laying a Solid Foundation:…

This paper presents some ideas to preschool educators and policy makers about how to make validated educational models central in standards for preschool education and care programs that are available to all 3- and 4-year-olds. Defining an educational model as a coherent body of program practices, curriculum content, program and child, and teacher…

The United States Department of Education's National Diffusion Network (NDN) has selected a number of science education programs to make available to schools across the country. The Life Lab Science Program (LLSP) is one such program. LLSP is a garden-based science and nutrition curriculum designed to raise students' level of science knowledge,…

Section 20-2-250 of Georgia's Quality Basic Education (QBE) Act, passed in March, 1985, provides for three types of innovative activities: developmental projects, training center/dissemination projects, and adoption projects. This part of the Act is administered by the Georgia Department of Education under the Innovation Program. The activities…

Several validation methods for the identification and dissemination of exemplary educational programs are explored, and the rationales for methods developed by the Program Effectiveness Panel are discussed. Comparative advantages and disadvantages of four selected methods are reviewed, and recommendations are made for policymakers and…

In this report, the search is continued for exemplary elementary science programs. Included is a chapter explaining the excellence in elementary science concept which touches upon: (1) goals; (2) characteristics of an ideal curriculum; (3) resources and materials; (4) administrative leadership; (5) classroom environment; and (6) program…

The decision by a Reagan administration appointee to terminate funding of 13 validated projects illustrates the influence of politics on policy. (Author)

The Douglas School System (South Dakota) has successfully operated a Time Out/Discipline Model program in their middle school for five years. The program was developed from 1978-1981 with Title IV-C funds and was validated in May 1981. Two major goals have proven statistically successful: (1) students will choose responsible behavior and will…

A benefit-cost analysis of the Job Corps program compared groups randomly assigned to either enroll in the program or to constitute a control group that did not enroll. Youth who participated in the study were those found eligible for Job Corps nationwide between November 1994 and February 1996. Interviews with participants and the assignment of…

A study involving random assignment of all youth eligible for Job Corps to either a Job Corps program or to a control group was conducted to assess the impact of Job Corps on key participant outcomes. Participants in the study were nationwide youth eligible for Job Corps who applied for enrollment for the first time between November 16, 1994, and…