Discusses methods for reconstructing theories underlying programs and policies, focusing on three approaches: (1) an empirical approach that focuses on interviews, documents, and argumentational analysis; (2) an approach based on strategic assessment, group dynamics, and dialogue; and (3) an approach based on cognitive and organizational…

Describes development of hospital-based crisis service for adolescents. Explains how Crisis/Assessment Unit (CAU) has met community need for responsive program for adolescents in acute psychiatric crisis. CAU development is described and critiqued. Typical case admitted for crisis services is presented. (Author)

In looking for a training program development model, a "best practices" model was developed that combined the strengths from five existing models and addressed the challenges of the 1990s. The "best practices" model has eight discrete steps and two continuous processes: needs analysis and an evaluation-and-feedback loop. (JOW)

Describes six process guidelines for new play development to assist freshman dramaturges exploring new play development. Notes that the six guidelines form a paradigm for new dramaturges collaborating with a playwright. Suggests the paradigm, coupled with enthusiasm for the unknown and a taste for adventure, will build dramaturges informed to help…

Describes the process of creating the John Hope Franklin Institute at Duke University, including the sometimes complicated collaboration between the committee wishing to honor Franklin (a renowned historian) and the one planning a new humanities center; major players in its development; and funding issues. (EV)

Describes the "slow and steady" approach to growth embraced by the owner of Stratford College, a Virginia-based, for-profit school that offers degrees in the culinary arts, information technology, and hotel and event management and business. (EV)

Describes the process used to develop a wilderness education plan for the Pecos Wilderness in northern New Mexico. The process comprised four general steps: (1) collect background information, (2) identify wilderness education issues; (3) analyze the wilderness education issues; and (4) develop general management recommendations. (Contains 21…

Discusses how, despite tight budgets and changing clientele, campus recreation professionals are using the entrepreneurial spirit to do more with less in developing feasible facilities and programming. (GR)

The first year of coordinating a local Technology Student Association (TSA) leadership conference is the most challenging. An organizer will quickly learn from his or her successes and failures and will make appropriate adjustments the following year. Hosting a conference requires a lot of work but it is very rewarding. The benefits of being…

Citizenship education is an important part of the development of young adults, enabling them to learn about their rights and responsibilities, and to understand how society works and decisions are made. Like citizenship, action research is about having a positive effect on the quality of people's lives. It is about seeking improvement both for the…

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) helps museums and libraries preserve our cultural heritage, enhance learning and innovation, and develop staff capacities to provide the best in service to our communities. IMLS has a long-standing commitment to funding grants and sponsoring research on the subject of how both preschool and…

One serious purpose of the Program Development Committee is to share ideas about education with Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI) Branches around the world. Benefits of sharing ideas include: (1) Making connections with others who share interests, and thereby enrich and strengthen your ideas for helping children; and (2)…

This article presents the findings of a qualitative study conducted by the author on the implications of e-learning programmes for the higher education systems of the member states of the European Union. The study takes a look behind the scenes of the eLearning Programme and other e-learning actions within other European programmes by tapping into…

The article examines a relatively new tool to increase the effectiveness of organizations and people. The recent development and background of Appreciative Inquiry (AI) is reviewed. Basic assumptions of the model are discussed. Implications for departments and divisions of student affairs are analyzed. Finally, suggested readings and workshop…

Review of the literature on transfer of learning or training since 1990 reveals a vast number of articles. However, when it comes to the ways professionals transfer learning to their practice, the research is limited. This led us to study a professional group, state court judges, to see how they integrate learning into their practice. Our study…