Discusses the idea of team cleaning educational facilities as a new concept in maintaining floors and carpets, as well as maintaining the entire building. This team effort can streamline and improve custodial operations. Each worker becomes a specialist with two or three functions instead of multiple cleaning tasks. (RE)

A Belgian and an English university collaborated on comparative cross-national research. Issues were raised in the following areas: language; cultural differences; the salience of class, race, and gender in England but not in Belgium; and qualitative versus quantitative research methods. (SK)

Discussion of continuing education (CE) focuses on motivation for change; the types of CE that exist; whether it should be voluntary or mandatory; institutional and individual aims; the manager as team leader; effects of financial pressures; and the role of library and information science associations. LRW)

Describes a business communication class assignment that helps students discover the assumptions and expectations of business culture, and develop the skills needed for the world of work in at least four areas: team skills; time and project management skills; use of technology to research, prepare, and present the project; and networking with…

Examines the relationship of team cohesion, participant attitude, and performance expectations to actual performance results in a simulation competition. Findings indicate a strong relationship between beginning team cohesion and performance expectations and final game performance, but little relationship between beginning participant attitudes…

This article offers guidelines and suggestions related to the educational interpreter's relationship and interactions with the student with hearing impairment, teachers, the student's peers and parents, supportive service personnel, and administrators. The interpreter must fulfill many roles to aid in the inclusion of students with hearing…

Discusses ways to assess how well team organizations are functioning and contributing to the total operation of the middle schools that use team structures. Considers whether teaching teams determine course content, and school support for teams; also considers teacher training in team operations and the level of understanding and commitment…

This article focuses on early intervention implementation concerns and recommendations for addressing the needs of the wide range of infants and toddlers with disabilities and families to be served. It describes providing services in natural environments, as well as the issues of personnel preparation and models of service delivery. (Contains…

An interdisciplinary geriatrics team training institute focused on cutting-edge health care themes had 30 participants. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation showed that participants sought specific, work-applicable insights; the focus on new approaches was critical; and careful attention to educational program marketing was needed. (SK)

Describes lesson study, a Japanese model for intensive, school-based professional development, noting that it is a change and improvement strategy appropriate for a cutural activity such as teaching, embodying many of the principles of effective professional development. The paper discusses: putting students at the center, developing professional…

Considers the new roles of librarians that have evolved from changes in technology. Discusses new job titles for librarians; changes in bibliographic instruction; training the trainers; virtual branch libraries; teamwork and collaboration; changes in organizational structures; and outsourcing options. (LRW)

Instead of a cast of characters, not unlike those of the television show "Seinfeld," school boards should be an ensemble. When a board collaborates in a trusting, positive atmosphere of mutual respect, these qualities are ultimately reflected in the classroom. Lists six questions that can help difficult boards find ways to work together. (MLF)

Staff developers recently spotlighted critical issues facing schools or districts trying to develop or improve beginning teacher mentoring programs. This article excerpts their suggestions, explaining how to build and support effective mentoring programs via: selecting mentors and matching mentors and mentees; mentor training; bringing a focus to…

Maintains that interdisciplinary teaming in middle schools has not reached its full potential, with teams spending too much time on minor problems and housekeeping duties. Suggests ways to: improve the foundations of teaming; demonstrate greater discipline during team meetings; improve the team's ability to make decisions, solve problems, and…

Discusses the integration of information technology into an institution of higher education, based on experiences at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and the University of Michigan. Topics include changes in user populations; leadership; infrastructure; teamwork; organizational priorities; attitudes and expectations; and the constancy of…