Steps toward developing a more constructive framework for linking research with educational practice in effecting school change are presented in this paper. To understand the problem of research-based change in schools, the process is reviewed from the following perspectives: the school and its practitioners; research-based knowledge itself; and…

Analyzes the intentions and results of federal efforts to promote educational improvement over the past 25 years. Federal efforts are described in the following areas: block grant funding; requirements for local evaluation and planning; research, development, and evaluation; linkage; and targeted support for local improvement. (CT)