The drill-down process starts with a global question or issue, which then is broken down into its component parts for analysis. Once the analysis is completed, all the data are used to make a reasoned decision on next steps. There are two guiding frameworks: the variety of questions posed and the level of data analysis employed. (MLH)

Interviewed Canadian caregivers and other stakeholders about training for family child care providers, and what they see as key training issues. Suggested that training programs be made more available and accessible, but also more relevant. Suggested that standardized core content be embedded in an adult learning process focusing on real-world…

Examines three sought-after Instructional Technology Outcomes (increased productivity, managed change, and enhanced human abilities) concluding that much of IT falls short through impoverished implementation planning and blind faith in technology to solve problems. Discusses four areas of opportunity. Argues that these factors may culminate in…

Compares the origins, curricular and pedagogical content, and impact of the new math and standards-based reform movements, describing: events leading up to this new math era and characteristics of representative curriculums; the demise of the movement; the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' standards-based reform movement; and reactions…

Demonstrates that by using barcodes to identify random lists of books, taking small monthly samples, and updating a simple control chart, one can effectively: (1) pinpoint reasons why library books are unavailable; (2) gauge if corrective actions or changes in procedure are needed; and (3) determine if such actions are successful. Contains two…

Discussion of higher education reform in Central and Eastern Europe since 1989 draws on writings in previous issues of this journal and extends the discussion to develop a conceptual framework for examining the reform process and identify key forces that either initiated and facilitated reform or hindered it. Attention is given to the unusual…

This paper analyzes three conflicting positions that constitute the Regular Education Initiative, in light of 24 federal and state court decisions. It concludes that the "Little Change Model" complies with more of these standards (such as due process, equal access, and education quality). The "Extreme Change Model" (which…

Describes a technique of video-taping interactions between children and foster parents for use in counseling sessions to improve the parent child relationship. (HTH)

When embarking on school/community-based management, nine Hawaii elementary schools trained their staff in facilitative leadership and received technical assistance from district offices. Schools can involve more parents by reaching a shared understanding about parental involvement, developing appropriate involvement strategies, providing parents…

Teacher thinking research examines teachers' thought processes and makes suggestions for training. Organizational analysis stresses the importance of teacher commitment and redesign of existing schools in increasing teacher collegiality and participation. This article juxtaposes these two literatures and suggests ways to combine divergent images…

Argues that educational reform in South African higher education must take into account the dynamic contextual realities and the people within each unique situation. Offers some strategies for change based on the author's experience at the Technikon Natal (South Africa). These include getting leadership support of changes, encouraging…

Harassment, or bullying, is one of the most difficult disciplinary issues for administrators to manage because of differing interpretations. One school's zero-tolerance plan involves filing a harassment complaint with the assistant principal, who meets with involved parties; notifying law- enforcement officials if appropriate; and informing…

Discusses the implementation of partner teams of two or three teachers at the middle school level. Considers the effect of these partnerships on class organization, student achievement, and teachers' relationships, and notes the evolution of partnerships from teaching teams. (JPB)

Discusses criticism of middle school reform based on questions about the universality and intensity of the characteristics of early adolescence. Suggests ways in which middle school advocates might respond to various criticisms, from using research evidence to supplementing their emphasis on development with a socially conscious commitment to…

Presents a response to the six articles on training in counseling psychology in this issue of "The Counseling Psychologist" (2000). Emphasizes the importance of good teaching and connecting education with research and practice, and identifies guidelines for curricular change. (Contains 17 references.) (GCP)