This article outlines the Schoolwide Reading Improvement Model (SRIM), a model characterized by the strategic integration of research-based practices in assessment, instructional design, and beginning reading instruction. A description of each major stage of the SRIM is provided, along with an example of its application in an Oregon school…

Assessed MedEthEx Online, a computer-based learning program, in improving communication skills as part of a required bioethics course for medical students. Exam scores of users were comparable with non-users, although computerized-learning students scored higher in specific exam areas, felt somewhat more clinically prepared, and rated the course…

Contributes to a special issue on how the reconsideration of what scholarship is affects the way in which scholarship is assessed. Examines the scholarship of application, which involves the practical application of theory to respond positively to the needs of the community. Offers two case studies demonstrating this beneficial role. Discusses…

Educational reforms fail because they are usually based on certain myths about training, advocacy, theory, knowledge dissemination, complete restructuring, paradigm shifts, and small-scale studies. These misconceptions result in wasted resources for staff development and dissemination, few professional validation standards, repeat cycles of…

A review of literature on orientation and mobility (O&M) training for preschool children with visual impairments finds that these services have expanded rapidly despite lack of a well-documented and thorough research base beyond the demonstrated value of basic O&M instruction in early intervention. The review addresses the need for services,…

Discusses paradigm shifts needed in today's evolving information-based society related to distance education. Topics include dissonance between ideals and practice, information technology and global competition, demographic changes, increased costs, resistance to change, the issue of quality, the Internet, research into learning, and curriculum…

Describes the year-long first phase of a research project by a group of teachers who made their own writing an object of inquiry to gain experience in reading and writing workshops. Describes how the experience helped them see the power of writing for themselves, and led to a better understanding of how to teach writing in their classrooms. (SR)

A study on the use of performance indicators within a quality assurance system in higher education in the Netherlands is reported. The case study of seven departments of economics shows the attention paid to structural aspects of the curriculum instead of the declared object of the program evaluation. (SLD)

Describes the characteristics of a multifaceted approach to violence prevention, Students for Peace, which was introduced in four, urban middle schools in Texas. Components consist of modification of the school environment, introduction of a violence-prevention curriculum, use of peer resources, and parent education. Barriers to implementation are…

This article reviews key findings from school-reform studies of the 1980s on sustained use of effective teacher practices in the classroom and explains their relevance to special education. Recent findings are also highlighted and unresolved issues are identified. An appendix lists sustainability factors and issues. (Contains references.)…

This article argues that to reduce adaptation of questionable interventions more emphasis needs to be placed on the history of special education, specifically effective and ineffective interventions. It further suggests that educators more familiar with special education history will be better prepared to discriminate effective from ineffective…

Discusses the tendency within Spanish universities to separate linguistic theory from methodology in language teaching. Suggests linguistic theoretical input should not be taught independently of pedagogical considerations. Focuses on overcoming some of the problems based on the existing gap between theoretical input and pedagogical teacher…

Presents an interview with researcher and teacher educator Carole Edelsky, named Outstanding Educator in the Language Arts by the National Council of Teachers of English. Discusses her work in sociolinguistics and in literacy education, her perspectives on literacy theory and pedagogy, how her political perspective permeates her work, her…

This article analyzes variables associated with adherence by parents to recommendations designed to solve common childhood problems and specific corresponding processes that are responsible for poor adherence. Adherence variables include establishing operations, stimulus generalization, response acquisition, and consequent events. (Contains…

Globalization is revitalizing comparative and international educational research. While recognizing that context matters, this process should emphasize increased collaboration between the humanities and social science research traditions; the global and the local; mainstream and specialist research communities; differing units of analysis;…