Some school systems are recognizing their responsibility to check software piracy, and a few publishers are responding to schools' needs and offering discounts on multiple copies of software to schools with policies protecting software copyright. Includes a model policy example. (MD)

Reviews quantitative studies concerned with the effectiveness of transactional analysis (TA) as a method of improving interpersonal communication and promoting mental health. Describes TA in educational, occupational, and clinical settings and discusses its effects compared with other types of counseling. Proposes methodological improvements for…

Staff were taught use of training and self-management skills through a sequence of written instructions, videotaped and live modeling, rehearsal, and videotaped feedback. Results indicated that staff learned to use the training skills appropriately and consistently, applied the skills in the generalization situations, and maintained skills with…

Argues that while community and technical colleges have been instrumental in assisting business and industry to meet human resource development needs, they have not responded to their own needs for a systematic and continuous development of institutional human resources. Cites effective approaches to staff development and offers recommendations.…

This article describes how the Kansas City (Missouri) Learning Exchange initiates and maintains successful partnerships with the private sector. To help fund quality staff development, the Exchange raises almost a quarter of a million dollars annually from businesses, trusts, and foundations. (DF)

The author presents a five-stage model for staff development used in a survey of professors and practitioners. The survey found that there is a disparity between what professors and practitioners believe is practiced and what is actually occurring in staff development. (MD)

Based on a survey of community college chairpersons, conclusions, implications, and recommendations are offered in each of ten areas. (IRT)

The second volume of "Moving NSDC's Staff Development Standards into Practice: Innovation Configurations" builds on the work that began with the first volume published in 2003. An Innovation Configuration map is a device that identifies and describes the major components of a new practice such as the standards and details of how it would look in…

This inventory is a reliable and valid staff development assessment instrument designed to measure the degree to which a school's professional development programs adheres to NSDC's Standards for Staff Development. This print version is meant to be completed by teachers and other school staff members. Sold in sets of 50 assessment inventories and…

This guide is aimed at anyone in work-based training who is responsible for learners during their first few weeks. Readers will (1) understand the value and purpose of initial assessment in key skills and Skills for Life; (2) become familiar with a range of techniques for the initial assessment; (3) plan an initial assessment system that is…

The Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services issues final regulations governing specific provisions of the Personnel Development to Improve Services and Results for Children with Disabilities program authorized under part D of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, as amended (IDEA or Act). The regulations are needed…

This brief paper summarizes recommended practices that teachers and administrators serving in supervisory roles can take to ensure the effectiveness of paraeducators working with students who have disabilities. Recommended practices are grouped into four general areas: (1) assign appropriate responsibilities and tasks (preferably by the…

This report examines the first 2 years of the Alabama Reading Initiative (ARI), whose goal is 100% literacy for all Alabama's public school children using a balanced approach to reading instruction. It includes results from the external evaluation team, examples of changes in teaching practices and student behaviors, as well as the voices of…

We explore training and development through the lenses of scholars and practitioners who have provided definitions and frameworks for exploring this area which is essential to human resource development (HRD). Thirty-five definitions of training and development are identified and analyzed. Themes from the analysis are explored, conclusions…

The importance of the availability of material resources in early childhood services, including children's and staff materials such as games and art supplies, books, blocks, toys, and other materials, should not be underestimated. When resources are stored in an attractive and easily accessible manner they are more likely to be used effectively.…