Draws on a survey of 83 community college faculty leaders, such as presidents of academic senates, to identify characteristics of existing campus leaders, and the skills and talents particularly suited to participating in decision-making processes that affect both college operations and policies. (Contains 13 references.) (PGS)

Examines the Social Democrats' (the Swedish government party) policy to create a more equal division of professional positions between the genders. Explores two central issues: (1) the factors that influence the design and implementation of the policy; and (2) whether the Social Democrats policy goals are being achieved. (CMK)

Considers aspects of local authority policy-making regarding the segregated special school provision for children with special educational needs and the resilience of separate special school sectors. Suggests that the use of incremental policy development has not resulted in significant long-term change and that a fundamental policy initiative has…

This keynote address reviews previous efforts at developing a research policy agenda for child abuse and neglect, reviews medical research directions in child sexual abuse, suggests the author's views of potential research areas, and suggests a policy infrastructure to further implementation of the conference's proposals. (DB)

Reviews the status of national higher education evaluation systems and examines the lack of research into the process and nature of policy choice. Proposals are offered concerning methods to assist future policy choices and analysis of these systems. Identifies both positive achievements and controversial examples of national evaluation system…

Because principals are respected, they are in a unique position to affect policy and legislation at all levels. It is time for principals to influence state-level legislative priorities and policies. Principals should establish political contacts, keep informed via state associations, and seize opportunities to advocate for students. (MLH)

Describes the development of alternative assessments being used successfully at two North Carolina elementary schools, noting the active participation of teachers in their development. From commonalities among the assessments, a seven-step, practice-based model was adapted and evaluated. The model highlights faculty buy-in, leadership, staff…

Discusses the negative effects of social and economic development on conditions for children and families. Focuses on worldwide cuts in funding of social services for families and the need to change the political culture toward a more sustainable one that allows for proper levels of care, play, and education of children. (JPB)

This article discusses some of the major challenges school districts face in implementing functional behavioral assessments (FBAs). A school improvement initiative, "Success4," is presented to illustrate an Iowa approach. Arguments are presented for fundamental changes in order to enhance school district effectiveness and accountability…

Urges institutions of higher education to evaluate their mission statements in light of current trends, especially the pervasive influence of information technology. Raises evaluative questions concerning information technology and distance learning, student services, the campus library, research computing, administrative computing, and public…

Highlights characteristics of arts education in Norway, especially with regard to music education. Discusses arts education policy issues such as School Reform 97, the aesthetic dimension, and the idea of the core curriculum. Observes how these different policy issues affected arts education and music/dance education in particular. (CMK)

Universities reported that when work/family policies were used, they often inspired loyalty and a sense of community among faculty. (Contains 4 tables.)

Do institutional researchers need to get approval from their Institutional Review Boards (IRBs)? Are IRBs difficult to work with? This chapter explains the functioning of IRBs and offers suggestions for enhancing cooperation between IRBs and institutional researchers.

In this paper we discuss the complexities of interview transcription. While often seen as a behind-the-scenes task, we suggest that transcription is a powerful act of representation. Transcription is practiced in multiple ways, often using naturalism, in which every utterance is captured in as much detail as possible, and/or denaturalism, in which…

For years, experts have said that the way to get things done is to schedule them on the calendar and to find a partner to join in the effort. Following this advice, the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) joined the Leadership Initiative at WestEd in inviting superintendents and district teams to think through improving…