Describes a method of calculating the percentage of adult literacy at the local level in Canada. (CHC)

Challenges two common assumptions in the literature on Knowledge Management: that knowledge originates in the individual and that once made explicit, subsequent interpretation of the representations of knowledge in symbolic form is unproblematic. Argues that the key to understanding the generation and sharing of knowledge is the role of text as…

Explores issues surrounding community-based literacy research. Suggests that, although well intentioned, literacy researchers risk overdetermining, essentializing, and romanticizing what it means to engage in community-based literacy if they do not define and question what is meant by community. Examines various definitions of community and argues…

Suggests that school systems "audit" their communication system to assess their communication needs. Provides two tests that audit a school system's environment and its community. The test results indicate whether the system's communication program should emphasize formal or informal communication methods. (RW)

Provides tips on writing legislators to ask for their support for federal legislation for child care. (BB)

For effective crisis intervention, the rural social worker must consider various factors specific to the rural community, e.g., knowledge of rural helping networks and core rural values, structure of kinds of crises likely encountered, and successful methods of intervention. (JHZ)

After discussing theories of attitude change, recommends that mental health workers overcome the negative attitudes of rural communities toward mental health programs by forming positive, personal, affective bonds with rural community members. Presents strategies for establishing and maintaining these bonds in private life, clinical work, and…

Based on research concerning school crime conducted at 600 public secondary schools, boards of education are advised to consider changes in school organization that would result in smaller schools; make school rules that are clear, firmly enforced, and equitably administered; and speak out against community conditions that perpetuate social…

Provides early childhood caregivers and teachers with guidelines for establishing positive working relationships with families of different cultures. (BB)

Gives suggestions about starting a school family center, beginning with a survey of parents to assess needs and wishes. A survey-planning process is outlined and a sample parent survey is included. Surveys must be tailored to the needs of the community, including translation into languages spoken by the parents. (SLD)

Examines the role of the neighborhood in books for children and young adults. Discusses community characteristics, historical fiction, "special and scary places," neighborhoods in conflict and harmony, and the neighborhood as a memory base. Presents activities including animated maps, games, murals, small group dramas, and storytelling.…

Demonstrates how concepts derived from General Systems Theory can be used to understand and treat families living in impoverished, isolated rural communities in the South. Suggests interventions frequently need to be directed at the community system as a whole if community rules are to be modified for second-order change. (Author)

In describing how the small school educator can effectively use community resources, points out the teacher must accept "that the community is a learning laboratory full of people, places and things that can contribute to the learning that takes place within the walls of the classroom." (Author/LC)