Presents a methodological framework for practice-based research in the field of networked learning, based on a case study evaluation of a networked professional development initiative for information services staff in higher education. The theoretical case for the framework is made with reference to principles associated with contructivist program…

An international professional community of 64 elementary and secondary teachers came together on the Internet to make sense of their practice of teaching French as a second language using the Internet. Excerpts from listserv discussions on classroom control and monitoring demonstrate how teachers collaboratively reflected on specific classroom…

A team of University of California, Santa Barbara instruction librarians developed information literacy workshops for local high school teachers and librarians. They introduced teachers to information literacy standards, provided technology training, presented strategies and activities for incorporating critical thinking into the research process,…

Reflects on how the author has contributed to improving social policy through research by asking good questions, using best methods, and seeing and taking advantage of opportunities. Specifically describes her research, especially relating to children and poverty, and focuses on the designing of research to inform social policy. (SD)

This study examined two upper-elementary teachers' learning through use of potentially educative mathematics curricular materials without additional professional development. Findings indicated that curricular materials can be an effective professional development tool for some teachers. One teacher's instructional focus and rationale for…

Reports findings of the first year of a three-year summer geoscience program in which undergraduates and high school teachers work with a consortium of faculty. Examines the effects of the program on the participants' interests in research, career plans, and attitude toward science. Discusses implications for providing authentic research…

Describes how case studies of three elementary teachers provide documentation of the extent to which the Washington State educational reform movement has altered classroom literacy practices over time. Reveals the narrowing of curriculum to "teach the test" and replacing professional development opportunities with work designed to boost…

Investigates small focus groups of teachers' preferences to integrate the topic of global climate change (GCC) into their science courses for 14-16-year-old students. Reports that science teachers preferred to maintain the integrity of the subject rather than be involved in extensive interdisciplinary teaching. (Contains 25 references.)…

Describes the underlying knowledge, skills, and attitudes that transformed school counselors need in order to work effectively in rural schools and communities, discussing the Transforming School Counseling Initiative and providing a snapshot of salient issues facing rural education and communities and examples of how transformed school counselors…

Cases study uses structured interviews, field observations, document and artifact analysis, focus groups, and member checks to identify "teachable" (transferable) elements of the "beyond expectations" successful instructional program at a K-5 school in North Carolina. Finds that the school achieved success by enacting a…

Describes a study that examined the experiences of 175 teachers as they learned technology for educational purposes within the framework of transformational learning. Highlights include technology integration; educational technology professional development; adult education; teacher self-confidence; and classroom practice. (LRW)

Outlines inquiry-based methods for analyzing longitudinal qualitative data to assess participant changes in three long-term theater education studies. Encourages qualitative researchers in drama and theatre education to devote more extended periods of time to systematically observing young people or adult practitioners experiencing the art form.…

Describes the Literacy Access Online (LAO) project, an online professional development environment that provides access to research-based techniques in reading and assistive technology information for teachers and parents in helping disabled children's reading process. Topics include electronic performance support systems; database architecture;…

The innovative approach implemented by the Kansas State Board of Education to evaluate and assist beginning teachers is described. Pilot and validity studies of the program and its instrumentation developed with over 1,000 teachers are reported. Interns, experienced teachers, and administrators have indicated that the system encourages…

Reviews the theoretical and empirical literature on mentoring as a means of personal enhancement or career advancement. Defines mentor-protege relationship (MPR); discusses two models of MPR; and discusses process of MPR. Makes recommendations for research and practice. (Author/TE)