Characterizes many civic councils (a combination parent-teacher organization and school board) as bureaucratic and unproductive. Profiles a council governing a Moscow suburban school that has been innovative and effective. Discusses the financial and administrative initiatives developed in conjunction with the school principal. (MJP)

Reports research on trends in computer-aided facilities management using the Internet and geographic information system (GIS) technology for space utilization research. Proposes that facility assessment software holds promise for supporting facility management decision making, and outlines four areas for its use: inventory; evaluation; reporting;…

Describes the principles, aims, and structure of the new Western Governors University, a regional effort to provide timely, accessible education by offering competency-based degrees, using advanced educational technology to provide learning opportunities, fostering interstate and public-private cooperation in development of new instructional…

A review of literature from 1981 to 1995 investigated issues concerning underrepresented minorities in medical education in seven areas: increasing representation of these groups; long- and short-term enrichment programs to improve performance; predictors of academic performance; predictors of student admission; specialty choices and career…

Profiles the implementation and accomplishments of the Allen Classical/Traditional Academy in Dayton, Ohio. The elementary magnet school integrated a character education program into its classical education curriculum. Discusses the specifics of this program including the use of a discipline plan and school uniforms. (MJP)

Reports on a survey of services provided to students with disabilities at 28 community colleges and 39 vocational schools in Florida. Classifies services in seven categories: counseling services, equipment supports, campus environment, student-centered supports, developmental labs, course flexibility, and unique programs. Includes 6 data tables…

This paper examines three attempts to improve partnerships in the Netherlands (professional development schools, a curriculum development project, and monitor schools that report to the institution on student teacher progress and integrate theory and practice). Discusses the advantages for schools, student teachers, and teacher education. (SM)

Takes a fresh look at the Bavarian school controversy of 1947-48 which has often been referred to as an example of German resistance to U.S. reeducation projects. Counters this criticism by noting the ambiguity of U.S. authorities and the changing priorities of the Cold War. (MJP)

Argues that computers in early childhood classrooms serve to raise young children's self-esteem, self-concept, and place in the classroom community. Provides examples of specific computer exercises including storytelling, journals, autobiographies, classroom data collection and recording, and classroom activities. Notes that these computer…

Describes an experimental computer program that attempts to simulate a choreographers' knowledge and expertise. The user expresses a set of rules that describe some of the dynamic aspects of a dance. These rules are applied nondeterministically by a "rule driver" program. The rule driver embodies a heuristic algorithm. (MJP)

Describes six community-based service-learning projects that are available to students as an alternative learning environment. Presents goals of service learning, including academic development, civic responsibility, personal development, social responsibility, career development, and ethical development. Discusses research indicating that…

Proposes a model of developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) that includes culturally appropriate practice (DCAP). Suggests that teacher preparation must readdress cross-cultural child development and learning style; reintroduce self-awareness and ways of understanding and valuing the study of culture, ethnicity, and teaching; and restructure…

Presents a program that one school developed to address extortion and fighting on school buses. Fourth- and fifth-grade students were encouraged to become "flight attendants" on the buses. This enhanced students' sense of pride, responsibility, and interest in others, creating a safer atmosphere more conducive to learning and career…

Advocates establishing programs to educate the public about the growing threat of communicable diseases and to promote effective strategies. Utilizes recent successes and failures to formulate those strategies. Profiles three recent infectious disease outbreaks that illustrate some of the current problems. Identifies four ways that lawyers can…

This article describes the development of a four-year course sequence in assistive technology (AT). Course participants learned how to assess student needs for AT, what AT devices were available, and how to make decisions within the individualized education program (IEP) team process. Major topical sections were data-gathering frameworks, legal…