Describes different methods of giving parents information about changes that take place when a school system implements the whole language approach. Observes that the natural mistrust and uncertainty associated with change can be eliminated when students have positive attitudes toward their learning experiences. (MM)

Results are reported from a study in which Cognitive Behavior Modification (CBM) was used successfully to modify the behavior of students (N=55) with mild behavior problems. This method teaches individuals to reinforce or rebuke themselves for their own behavior. Also outlined are steps in implementing a CBM program. (IAH)

According to recent research, when teachers focus on higher mental processes (problem solving, application of principles, analytical skills, and creativity) within a mastery learning format, students' thinking skills and knowledge levels improve. Baltimore County (Maryland) and East Islip (New York) School Districts have programs integrating…

Cooperative learning could transform our schools, our communities, and our society. Reexamining classroom reward structures and implementation strategies could provide opportunities for reflecting on content, harmonizing content and process, coordinating cooperative learning with other classroom values, empowering teachers and students,…

Reviews three books on the educational excellence movement: "Excellence in Education," by D.P. Doyle and T.W. Hartle; "The Politics of Excellence and Choice in Education," by W.L. Boyd and C.T. Kerchner; and "Managing Educational Excellence," by T.B. Timar and D.L. Kirp. These books are not about movement's implementation and impact, but focus on…

Planning and implementing successful community-based social integration experiences for infants and toddlers with multiple disabilities require consideration of such issues as the developmental needs unique to this age-group, family needs and concerns, health and safety considerations, and training needs of staff. (JDD)

To address early care and education challenges, this article outlines some concrete strategies illustrated by several programs, including ALERTA (a multicultural, bilingual approach), the Maryland Certification-Accreditation Project, the High/Scope training of Teacher-Trainers System, a Florida community collaboration project, and the Kennedy…

Major approaches to school-based substance abuse prevention for adolescents are reviewed, and school organizational issues for the implementation of such programs are considered. The need for multi-level interventions including parents, the community, and the media is discussed. Three models of school-based substance abuse prevention programs are…

Describes vocational education in South Carolina, stressing the Federal Government's role in enhancing the delivery of such education to students, especially to special populations such as disadvantaged and handicapped children. A comparison of four school districts offers insights into commonalities and differences among programs. Includes…

The success of supported employment for persons with mental retardation is discussed. Major implementation issues including long term funding, technical assistance needs, transportation availability, and the need to serve the most severely handicapped are identified. (Author/DB)

A review of research indicates that current beginning reading practices typically emphasize discrete skills that fail to take advantage of young children's emergent literacy abilities. Suggestions for strengthening the match between young children's emergent literacy and instructional experiences are offered. (RH)

A qualitative case study and monitoring data complemented a study of the evaluation of a health promotion program (Project LIFE) conducted in 23 rubber-producing plants in the United States. The study illustrates assessment of threats to internal validity, including the degree to which the planned intervention was actually implemented. (SLD)

The educational reform movement has resulted in staff development requirements which have created implementation problems for rural schools. The educational cooperative provides a solution to these implementation problems. (JD)

Designing, implementing, and evaluating transition programs is an extremely complex task, but not an impossible one. Legislation has given society the challenge and programs have begun to emerge. (JOW)

The article provides an overview of the study skill proficiency (or lack of it) of students with learning disabilities followed by the presentation of 15 study skill strategies. It concludes with a discussion on the implementation of a study skills program including guidelines. (Author/DB)