Discusses the differences between traditional pedagogical methods and small-group cooperative learning. Describes the benefits of the cooperative approach, including emphasis on learning rather than on competition, improved comprehension, and increased social awareness. Provides hints for administrators implementing cooperative learning programs.…

Discusses roles appropriate for the principal and the teacher during the appraisal interview that follows the principal's observations and assessment of the teacher's job performance. Suggests techniques drawn from management theory for principals' use in enhancing communication, the key to making the appraisal interview mutually beneficial. (PGD)

Principals unable or unwilling to conduct thorough teacher evaluations using classroom observations should consider two other sources of evaluation data: "artifacts of teaching," including lesson plans, tests, activity instructions, and bibliographic handouts prepared by teachers, student work, peer testimony, and similar materials; and…

Intended for those who are introducing computers into the classroom and those who need help with curriculum development in this area, this article explains key ingredients for successful coordination: identify interested personnel, start small, shop around, assess space available, avoid exclusivity, involve faculty, become a resource, and plan…

After examining clinical supervision and its evolution, the author presents a model of supportive supervision in which supervisor and teacher collaborate to assess and maximize student performance. The focus is on student attitudes, behaviors, and learning outcomes rather than on evaluation or criticism of the teacher. (WD)

In attempting to answer the question posed in the title, this author offers an overview of the goals of arts programs and some general guidelines for administrators to follow in evaluating those programs. (Author/JM)

A Texas high school undertook measures to ensure that more students participate with increased confidence and success in advanced in advanced math classes. The challenge was to provide support so students remained in advanced classes--an effort requiring considerable counselor, teacher, and administrator teamwork and encouragement. The process was…

The creators of a "virtual" professional development school say that young children pass easily between "real" and "virtual" learning situations. Online learning features much more independent learning and far less teaching, with students often setting the learning agenda. Administrators have changing…

Describes a successful mentoring program for beginning teachers developed at a Baptist (K-12) school with 700 students and 11 new faculty members. Program mentors were experienced, but not lead teachers. The most frequently discussed problems between mentor and protege were discipline, classroom management, and the frustration of never having…

When evaluating special education teachers, observers need to focus on effective teaching strategies common to both regular and special education teachers. Where variations in the central act of instruction exist, they are usually differences in emphasis justified by special education students' unique requirements. (two references) (MLH)

Administrators can improve school climate and student achievement by understanding and improving their own role in shaping the learning environment. A survey of 32 urban secondary school teachers found that principals shape climate by supporting teachers and recognizing their achievements, mediating between teachers and "problem" parents…

The problems attending democratic freedom and responsibility have not been solved since De Toqueville's day; improving democracy is each generation's legacy. Site-based administration is education's response to business/industry "downsizing" and a shift from assembly-line manufacturing to caseload service. Strategies to help SBM…

Defining community politically (as a flexible arena for debating perspectives and achieving purpose) provides different ways to consider diversity. Diversity becomes not an anomaly but an integral part of the community process; conflict is legitimized as appropriate and inevitable in achieving school purposes. Administrators must mediate conflict,…

The principal must play a key role in any successful school community information campaign. Tips are provided for running an election information campaign. (Author/MLF)

Armed with an awareness of why employees leave, administrators can work to reduce employee turnover. Some suggestions for conducting exit interviews are provided. (Author/MLF)