This book should be read by anyone concerned about the future of education in the United States. It was written for students, parents, educators, administrators, and policy makers because it will require effort from all these individuals to create meaningful change in the education system. This book discusses why the education system needs to…

A growing body of research confirms the long-held belief of parents, school administrators, and policy makers that teachers are the key component to a good education and that there is substantial variation in teacher quality. This research differs fundamentally from prior work on teachers by focusing directly on differences in student learning…

Research indicates that teachers are the main influence on student achievement. However, standards and accountability related to teacher preparation, certification, and competencies are inconsistent. The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education has developed a more rigorous system of standards and procedures for teacher preparation.…

This book is an action plan for improving education in the U.S, focusing on the key role of teachers in this improvement. It offers a detailed comparison of the educational methods of Germany, Japan, and the United States. The analysis begins with an international study of mathematics teaching in the three countries that was conducted as part of…

This paper presents an analysis of current education services for students with traumatic brain injury (TBI) from the perspectives of children, parents, and educators. It presents results from several pilot surveys that asked parents and educators to identify the strengths and weaknesses of current educational services for students. Guidelines for…

Intended for parents, teachers, or anyone whose contact with children requires an effective relationship, this handbook provides a collection of communication strategies and activities to improve positive relationships with children, particularly younger and older adolescents. Part 1 deals with techniques for communicating effectively with…

Reflecting some of the most up-to-date thinking about enriching the experience of those who plan for and are involved in the care of children, this brochure lists critical skills of those individuals in the child care profession, and may be used as a reminder and as a self-evaluation tool. The skills highlighted are: enhancing child development;…

This guide helps parents understand the issues of teacher quality, suggesting ways they can strengthen teacher quality in their children's schools. In order to ensure that students meet new, higher standards, teachers must be better prepared to promote high levels of learning for all students. Research has shown that many teachers do not feel…

One of the key features of this legislation is an emphasis on teacher quality. A growing body of research has documented the importance of teacher knowledge and skill in improving student achievement. The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 includes specific criteria for considering a teacher highly qualified, and other specific requirements…