This paper argues for students' inclusion as empowered participants in the process of designing their Individual Education Plans (IEP). Possible student roles in assessment, IEP development, evaluation, modification and other IEP stages are described. Guidelines for student participation in the IEP conference and a sample self-evaluation checklist…

A study of decentralization in Canadian school districts, particularly Edmonton (Alberta) and Langley (British Columbia), found organizational (not political) decentralization, and focused on the location of (1) authority and responsibility and (2) scope of school-based decision making. School-based management was characterized by two key…

Most U.S. children have opportunity to participate in one year of publicly supported schooling prior to first grade. Children's school-entry age differs by as much as 18 months. Hours of participation varies widely, as do teachers' academic backgrounds. Rarely are teachers assisted by aides or principals with early childhood education training. To…

Presents the results of a preliminary investigation into the innovative capacities of Dutch secondary schools. Defines "innovative capacity" based on a number of factors found in a review of the literature. Finds that transformational school leadership plays a particularly crucial role in the development of the innovative capacities of…

Discusses the strategies used to create culture change at Victor Valley College. Over a five-year period, the college underwent a comprehensive change process of strategic planning, team leadership training, process reengineering, organizational restructuring, and college-wide staff development. Contains 14 references. (CK)

Using examples from Cuyahoga Community College, this article examines the nature of teams, how they are suited to community college management, and how they can increase the effectiveness of community colleges. Presents tangible implementation strategies and unique applications for community colleges, including the use of faculty as team…

Describes two tiers of accountability reporting: (1) external reporting requirements; and (2) internal management diagnostics. Contends that the locus of control for Tier 2 reporting resides within the institutions, and that community college executives should concentrate more on using these types of administrative records more effectively. (EMH)

Studied programmatic features associated with successful after-school programming at the Manchester Youth Development Center, an urban center with 25 years of experience. Identifies six salient elements in program success that might be used in holistic prevention and intervention planning. (SLD)

Examines a moderately sized Washington school district's efforts to move beyond strategic planning as a segregated activity toward thinking strategically about long-term plans to govern both tactical operations and the district's future. Top management grew to recognize the legitimacy of multiple external and internal constituent claims. (25…

A survey of 65 secondary and postsecondary-education special educators found that they supported both community-based instruction and inclusive education and believed students benefited from each. The implications of the findings are discussed, with an emphasis on basing educational programming on the student's needs, wishes, and interests.…

Discusses the distinctions made between hardware and technology as applied to distance education. Highlights include hardware and technology in the planning process, media-delivery systems in higher education, communication in teaching and learning, and new definitions of educational technology. (LRW)

Presents a list of pre-conditions--or readiness criteria--that must be in place before a higher education institution can successfully implement an information technology-based redesign effort and thus see a return on its investment. Includes examples of the ways that different institutions have met these criteria. (AEF)

Questionnaires, observations, and interviews were used to study the establishment of a postgraduate distance learning program for social work managers. Research highlighted the need for planning, efficient distribution of course materials, development of support services, integration of the program within the university structure, and development…

Discusses how to create quality electronic learning initiatives in higher education involving multiple partners. Topics include the strategic planning process; technology; needs assessment; marketing and competition; the need for qualified staff; the redefinition of teaching and learning and the role of faculty; and the rapid pace for decision…

Proposes a framework for the design and development of higher education electronic learning systems that focuses less on technology delivery than on university context, teacher views of learning, course planning, and teaching strategies. (SK)