The basic thesis presented here is that school districts can improve the effectiveness of their educational programs without sustaining long-term increases in their operational costs. Six strategies used in the last decade for school improvement are identified and examples are given. (Author/BD)

What to consider before making selections. (LS)

Cost differences in school construction are attributable to scope, quantity, quality, and a range of intangible factors. Building costs can be reduced, but it requires a major effort on all fronts to be successful. (Author/MLF)

Haverton, Pennsylvania, was able to keep its distinctive school buildings with a renovation program that cost a fraction of the price of new schools. (Author)

Two self-study media presentations, booklet-tape and videotape recording (two formats) were evaluated in order to determine the relative cost-effectiveness of the presentations. The results indicated that the differences in mean scores did not justify the increased cost of videotape. (Author/BD)

Performance technologists like quick, cheap analysis that is rigorous and comprehensive. This article presents the organization scan model which makes successful compromises between the technologist's obligation to be rigorous and comprehensive and the sponsor's obligation to save money and time. Includes "Societal Bottom Line: Measurable…

Describes how one school district was able to efficiently install fragile telecommunication cabling throughout its high school and save thousands of dollars. Discusses solutions to some common cable-management problems. (GR)

Discusses the importance of a vehicle maintenance program for school districts that can reduce overall costs and improve safety. It describes developing a maintenance plan and its implementation, and recordkeeping tips. In addition, it highlights where to find vehicle maintenance training and resources. (GR)

Describes five course redesign models (supplemental, replacement, emporium, fully online, and buffet) used by grantees of the Program in Course Redesign sponsored by the Pew Charitable Trusts. The grants helped colleges redesign instruction using technology to achieve quality enhancements as well as cost savings. (EV)

Reanalyzes literature on the effect of class size on student achievement, showing that results of quantitative summaries of the literature depend critically on whether studies are accorded equal weight. Performs a cost-benefit analysis of class size reduction using data from the Tennessee STAR class size experiment. Results suggest that the…

Discusses the field of knowledge management and professional opportunities for librarians. Highlights include differences between knowledge management and traditional library approaches; solutions beyond technology; community of practice (COP); new librarians skills; information technology competition; cost effectiveness; best practice approaches;…

Describes the advantages and disadvantages of group purchasing. Forty-seven states have laws allowing group purchasing. Includes examples of group purchasing arrangements in Washington, California, New Mexico, and Kentucky. (PKP)

Studied perceptions and recommendations from 62 survey researchers about the use of electronic surveys. Reduction of costs, usefulness for prenotification and followup, and comparability with existing software were the most positive aspects cited. Limitations identified included sampling problems and confidentiality and privacy problems. (SLD)

Discusses advantages of electronic learning for business, including cost benefits, administrative benefits, and instructional benefits. Considers the increase in electronic learning to cut back on business travel since the September 11th attacks and offers guidelines to achieve business results with electronic learning, including linking learning…

Reviews the philosophical and theoretical foundations of cost-effectiveness analysis and describes some of the ethical assumptions and implications that are embedded in, and result from, the use of this economic analysis technique. Considers how the social and political contexts of health-related decisions affects the usefulness of the results…