A survey of 850 Arizona university employees (71 percent response) found that water quality was the top-rated environmental issue. Among methods of receiving information, most would accept renting videotapes, home study, bulletins, or workshops within 10 miles of home. Older respondents were generally less willing to use the methods offered. (SK)

Reports results of a study of the relative effectiveness of two library orientation/instruction methods--computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and a traditional library tour. Test scores and cost data for the two approaches are compared, and three CAI cost models are described. A significant cost advantage for offering CAI orientation/instruction is…

The New York City Prototype Schools Program was initiated in 1987 as one of the strategies to design and build new facilities more quickly and at a reasonable cost. The prototype school building features five different blocks that can be configured in a variety of ways to meet individual site requirements. (MLF)

The effects of relaxed college admission standards vary across students. A relaxed standard may raise the number of graduates but reduces nongraduates' productivity. The effect on the graduation rate is ambiguous, since "marginal" college attendees are less likely to graduate. A lower admission standard reduces performance among students exceeding…

After Proposition 13 passed in California, a series of 19 major bills imposed fiscal limits on the K-12 school system. One action is assigning a fiscal advisor to assume control in a district in financial distress. Lists the symptoms of a financially ill school district and highlights 24 items of a recovery plan. (MLF)

A good technology plan for a school district recognizes that implementing technology is an ongoing process, not a one-time matter. A number of experts answer questions concerning technology planning and purchasing. Technology in a solid long-term plan is described as adaptable, compatible, reliable, flexible, upgradable, nonproprietary, open, and…

Reviews research to determine whether the use of computers in classrooms is effective. Highlights include differences in research methodology; meta-analyses; critical reviews; differences between computer-assisted (CAI), computer-managed (CMI), and computer-enhanced instruction (CEI); and the role of research. Contains 86 references. (LRW)

Describes a management program for Head Start directors called the Head Start-Johnson & Johnson Management Fellows program that focuses on issues and problems encountered by directors in implementing and operating programs at the local level. Notes that the management program represents a response to increasing need for cost-effective and…

Discussion of trends in World Wide Web-based delivery of higher education in Australia looks at issues in the pedagogy of online teaching and learning, its costs, and some philosophical concerns of access and equity. All are examined in the context of a recent Australian report (the West Report) on technology in higher education. (MSE)

This case study describes a project to design a performance support system that incorporated an electronic performance tool, computer-based training, and paper-based deliverables that resulted in lower development costs and improved job performance. Highlights include audience analyses, cost analysis, creative resource allocation, and feedback…

Reviews "The Benefits and Costs of Good Child Care" by Gordon Cleveland and Michael Krashinsky. Maintains that their study represents an important breakthrough in the understanding by economists of child care and its multidimensional role in promoting child welfare, equal opportunity for women, a more egalitarian society, and a more…

Offers tips on how to find the best lighting solution for school facilities that is also cost effective. Tips include looking for energy-efficient lighting systems that help cut long-term costs; using high-quality lighting that reduces the number of fixtures needed; and considering heating and air-conditioning loads, daylight entering the…

Provides reasons for using dome architecture in building educational facilities and describes the development of two such dome facilities in Arizona: a pre-kindergarten through Grade 8 multipurpose facility for Native-American students, and a school library and parent center. Highlights the facilities' interior-design features and some cost…

The story of one young man's successful return to his neighborhood high school provides the nuts and bolts of how to use a paraeducator to ensure smooth and cost-effective transitions for youth moving from restrictive environments back to public schools. Discusses the paraeducator's role, training, crisis planning, initial successes, and reducing…

Research on choice (particularly publicly funded voucher programs) reveals that voucher parents with youngsters in private schools are pleased with the opportunity; voucher programs can be structured to provide additional choice for at-risk students; few eligible families apply for tuition vouchers; and academic achievement results remain…