The participative model of institutional budgeting is compared briefly with two other common models, and its rationale is discussed. An explanation of nine basic principles of participative budgeting uses examples from a variety of colleges and universities, and concludes with the author's reflections on the approach, based on his experience. (MSE)

Compares four small-group literacy-learning approaches (cooperative, collaborative, participatory, and workplace team) in terms of assumptions, relationship to literacy, learning activities, and teacher role. Concludes that they are validated more in theory than in practice; more attention to gender, class, and culture is also needed. (SK)

Alabama Extension's Interdisciplinary Aging Team develops programs to assist older adults with quality-of-life issues and encourages volunteerism. A survey of 80 seniors identified their information needs and preferred information sources (television, professionals, radio). The information was used to adapt Senior Series materials and organize a…

A philosophy professor who supports college athletics battles to maintain credibility among his academic peers. His interest is in adding balance to criticism of college sports and calling attention to positive aspects such as teamwork and discipline. The professor also teaches a seminar in ethics for first-year athletes. (MSE)

Similarities and differences between least restrictive environment (LRE) and collaboration are considered. It is suggested that both LRE and collaboration are essential to achieving appropriate education for students with disabilities, but the potential of LRE and collaboration has not yet been fully realized. (SW)

Uses an ethnographic approach to study literacy as a cultural practice rather than as isolated skills within individuals. Finds that the emphasis on literacy, teamwork, and learning meant opportunities to increase workers' skills and wages but also increased burdens. Discusses implications for education and work. (RS)

Offers step-by-step guidelines for creating effective team work in a workplace basic skills program, including preplanning, determining worker skills, developing curriculum, evaluating, and reporting the results. (JOW)

Collaborative and inclusive schools search for the most education-enhancing environment for each student. The Collaborative Consultation Model and collaborative problem solving are often used to build team structures and solve problems, rather than teachers working in isolation. The model is discussed in detail. (CC)

Described is a training activity to introduce special educators to the transdisciplinary teaming model in comparison with the multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary models. The group activity highlights critical components of each model. It has been used with more than 100 special education team members in Connecticut to introduce…

The assistant principalship holds a critical position in education organizations because it is an entry-level position for administrative careers. Assistant principals maintain the norms and rules of school culture and handle the conflicts arising among teachers, students, and the community. Principals who work as administrative teams with their…

A well-planned formal mentor program established for continuous peer support is the ideal system for both tenured and untenured faculty. A Pennsylvania program has six full-time mentors to help teachers during and after school. The program is rooted in the concepts and practices of peer coaching, counseling, and support. Mentors' qualifications,…

Instead of trying to imitate high school programs, staff at many U.S. middle schools are working to transform school climate, become more sensitive to adolescent needs, and experiment with team arrangements, new schedules, advisory programs, and other organizational patterns. This article uses three case studies to illustrate new approaches to…

Fear frequently underlies confusion about shared decision making. Participative decision makers do agree on three basics: focus on improving school effectiveness by involving teachers and parents; need for school teams or councils charged with decision-making authority over certain issues; and a process to improve overall decision-making quality…

An award-winning administrator of a college computer system discusses the role of networking and teamwork in successful information management, drawing on experiences during recent political upheavals in eastern Europe for illustration. Other success factors stressed include having and sharing a dream and developing future leaders. (MSE)

Two priorities of a Colorado elementary school (increasing the quality of parent-school partnerships and modeling and building student self-esteem) led to the school's parent-observation process. An accountability team selected two parent-observers, who worked with the principal and two teachers to develop a training guide, an observation outline,…