Results are reported for 3 years of in-service training provided to managers and direct care personnel employed in community, residential, and vocational programs for developmentally disabled adults. The data demonstrate the efficacy of the training model in that 1015 (97%) of 1080 training objectives attempted were completed by the trainees at…

In light of attempts to build a stronger appreciation for knowledge that is often constructed by the dominant Western culture's standards, this article focuses on the efforts to create agency among classroom teachers who teach in rural Alaskan schools. In discussions around the theories of assessment--the focal point of a summer course examined…

A program to meet training needs of personnel providing supported employment services to people with developmental disabilities in all parts of Alaska is described. The competency-based training program uses an independent learning format and master trainers. Evaluation indicated that the materials, the study format, and the master trainer model…

The Specialized Training of Associates in Rural Alaska (STARS) is a 3-year project providing preparation to early intervention associates in rural Alaska and services to infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. Evaluation methods and results are reported. Appendices describe the 24 training modules and list the program's…

Examines log files and teacher survey responses to determine the impact of face-to-face training on teachers' Internet use of Alaska Health Online, a health education Web Site. Results show that teachers with training visit the site more frequently and apply materials from the site to their classes more often. A copy of the survey is appended.…

Teleconferences are one method for improving the quality of schooling in rural communities. Among suggestions for enhancing teleconferencing are face-to-face meetings, familiarity with teleconference technology, and advance notice to students of materials to be examined in such courses. (PB)

A model of staff development is presented which applies inservice education methods to the special conditions of rural Alaska. An individualized, field-based training program is cooperatively planned with those receiving the training. Ultimately, each trainee constructs an implementation plan. A follow-up assesses whether the program objectives…

Describes a program designed to provide teacher education and comprehensive postsecondary education to Yup'ik Eskimo aides, teachers, and other village residents. Describes problems facing the program and the importance of field center coordinators. (Journal availability: National Dissemination and Assessment Center, California State University,…

Relates experiences in providing on-site Internet workshops to the newly networked Native-Alaskan village of Galena. Discusses a handbook of K-12 Internet resources, the collaborative relationship at the core of Internet innovations, creating an online course on brokering Internet learning resources, and the three biggest advantages the Internet…

This article discusses the project developed by the Southeast Island School District (SISD) to improve their physical education curriculum. The challenge faced by SISD was to determine a way to provide training that had immediate impact. An important aspect of the project was the incorporation of adventure activities--such as using kayaks,…

Describes the process for curriculum development effectively used in a rural Alaskan school district and currently being applied in another recently created rural school district. Suggests its potential for adoption in other rural school districts is great. (AH)

Systems thinking involves seeing relationships between the parts to the whole within the school improvement effort. After providing the key principles and examples of systems thinking, the article emphasizes the importance of staff development, highlighting experiences at a Wellesley (Massachusetts) middle school and an Alaskan high school. (SM)

A survey of 79 teachers of Alaskan students with deafness found those who use instructional technology tended to be older, hold an advanced degree and secondary education certification, benefit from in-service training onsite, are connected to the Internet, and actively use the technology available at their schools. (Contains references.)…

Descriptions of students projects raising chickens and studying salmon illustrate how project-based learning engages high-risk Alaska Native students. Projects make learning relevant, involve the community, increase student self-esteem, and help students and teachers bond with each other. A 4-day workshop for teachers emphasized how projects must…

Several models of librarian and faculty collaboration are found in the professional librarian literature. The literature on collaborative self-study research in university settings suggests collaborative self-study research can improve interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches to teaching and research and facilitate the transfer of knowledge.…