Explores procedures for improving the teaching of reading through the use of a direct instruction staff development model based on research that includes the application of five principles of effective staff development. Includes theory presentation, demonstration, guided practice, classroom practice, feedback, and coaching. (PRA)

Explains how to create an organizational system that will result in good performance. Topics discussed include process versus system; two views of a system, i.e., mechanistic and organic; and components of a system, including performance guides, measurement of results, feedback, and training. (LRW)

Outlines what research is, and what action research is. Describes the steps, evolution, and benefits of action research. Argues that action research is a viable and sound research strategy and an invaluable asset to solve real problems and lead to school-wide improvement. (SR)

States that much has been written about whether writing center tutors should be generalists or specialists. Suggests that these arguments should be restructured around tutor-training theory and its relationship to social constructionism. Seeks a middle ground between the generalist and specialist poles through training theory and pedagogy to…

This article on the use of applied behavior analysis with students who have autism focuses on the management of the physical and temporal environments to highlight salient stimuli and support the direct teaching and shaping of appropriate behavior. It stresses the use of systematic instruction including errorless learning, data-based…

Suggests that as part of their own professional growth, teachers must define, analyze, and evaluate their personal beliefs about schooling. Discusses (1) the two major belief systems--transmissive and progressive; (2) a computerized instrument designed to assist educators in assessing their tendencies toward either belief system; and (3) the value…

Considers how public relation's search for a unifying theory may be fulfilled through application of Alasdair MacIntyre's concept of a "practice," a very specific and value-laden concept. Explores what it would mean to be a public relations practice in MacIntyre's concept of the term and argues that such an approach to public relations…

In 1966, Muska Mosston introduced the Spectrum of Teaching Styles. Now, the expanded spectrum has been widely adopted nationally and internationally. A series of eight articles examines various uses of the Spectrum of Teaching Styles by teachers and teacher educators. (SM)

This paper suggests directions, based on the scientist-practitioner model, toward which counseling psychology should move in response to the dramatic increase in the number of stepfamilies in contemporary society. "Stepfamily" is defined as a household that includes a parent-child relationship that pre-dates the couple relationship, thus…

Issues in student placement, particularly of economically disadvantaged gifted students, are addressed. After a brief review of the legislative history of efforts to identify and serve this population, the conceptual framework of two diverse theoretical positions, decision theory and justice as fairness, is examined. Decision theory is considered…

The paper discusses the theory and implementation guidelines of a visual arts curriculum for emotionally handicapped adolescents. The author stresses the importance of expressive arts and of identification with the art experience, and suggests that a curriculum should start with themes, experiences, and ideas worth communicating. Expressive…

To help educators design a balanced curriculum giving students opportunities to master knowledge and use it appropriately, this article explains curriculum design components and framework and provides advice concerning selecting the design, exploring sources, working with the committee, and developing guiding statements. Includes eight references.…

Argues that multiple theoretical perspectives and applied careers versus basic interests need not divide the discipline of sociology. Contends that the idea of a disciplinary core will be more easily operationalized if sociologists orient themselves toward the skills which comprise the essence of their work. (Author/DH)

Maintains that applied and academic orientations are not antithetical but rather complimentary components of a realistic and integrated view of society. Advocates that students take a pro-active position in seeking a broad range of opportunities which will provide skills and insights necessary to contribute to sociology's future. (Author/DH)

Defines the concept of the synergistic model of organizational structure. The primary components of the model are cooperative action and job integration, which have as a direct result the increased energy in staff members using the model. (MD)