Describes an attempt to introduce differentiation by task in an inner city secondary school. Concludes that differentiated work cards lead to no significant improvement in the achievement of lower ability students. High and medium ability students improved their performance as a result of using the work cards. (DDR)

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…

In the Network of Performance Schools, 75 British Columbia schools conduct action research on school improvement. Among their findings: a sense of identity around a common goal was key to successful networking, assessment information generated from classroom work provided meaningful data and supported school learning communities, and network…

Describes the formation of the Denbigh Action Research Group at Denbigh School (England) and its partnership with Kingston University (England) to create a post-graduate diploma in action research. Shows how a Denbigh School sixth form teacher applied the research group findings to the classroom and how it benefitted a student. (DAJ)

Describes the Quality of Work Life (QWL) program at the North American Manufacturing Division of Xerox Corporation and the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union. States that the story of QWL is a description of participatory action research. Notes that the process has become an integral and flexible approach to solving problems and…

Reflects upon participatory action research as used by the cost study teams at Xerox Corporation. Discusses the evolving relationships between union and management and describes the changing role of the union during this process. Notes that even though management instability causes some problems, the program is beneficial in fostering employee…

In a study of learner-centered teaching, eight student teachers examined their students' reaction to a number of lessons and tasks. Information was gleaned on aspects of learning, materials, and management perceived to be helpful, and a simple procedure was suggested for helping teachers to conduct similar action research. (Contains five…

A University of Innsbruck (Austria) faculty development program brought faculty of different disciplines together to support each other in action research to improve teaching. Participants examined what they want to accomplish in the classroom and how to accomplish it. The program has also fostered interdisciplinary cooperation and institutional…

Outlines arguments for action research approaches to the implementation of STS education. Presents six teachers' initial views and changing perceptions throughout the duration of an action research project in terms of four categories: nature of STS education, development of curriculum materials, personal/professional development, and collaborative…

Argues that grounded theory, an explicit approach to the analysis of qualitative data, is ideal for applied settings and can be adapted to the limited, sporadic opportunities available to faculty and faculty developers who focus on classroom interaction and social relations. Introduces key features and techniques of this approach. (JB)

Dozens of Australian "laptop" schools are following the lead of Methodist Ladies' College (an independent pre-K-12 school) in personal computing and are using some of their pioneering professional development models, including in-classroom collaboration, "slumber parties," and build-a-book workshops. Guidelines for implementing…

Reviews an ethnography of the life experiences in home, school, and community of 14 Mexican American immigrant children as they struggle with acculturation processes. Argues that the authors fail to achieve an "ethnography of empowerment" that puts theory into practice and improves the living conditions of its subjects, and that this notion is…

Presents an action-research approach to investigating the diverse goals and dilemmas characterizing staff appraisal activity. Describes an intervention to counter ineffective, defensive reasoning and teach two (New Zealand) principals how to think and act productively to manage dilemmas. Discusses challenges of the complex theoretical and…

To be successful, educational reform must involve the range of educational shareholders from the beginning in discussions about what to change and why. The participatory reform method of the Institute for Responsive Education illustrates parent-teacher action research for new foundations for educational structures. (SLD)

Investigates Vygotsky's concept of the zone of proximal development using peer social dialogue integrated with teacher support to develop children's reading, writing, and abstract thinking in story reflection and sense of audience. Reports that students showed improvement in word recognition, in fluency, and in evaluating their own reading…