Scientifically based research used to inform evidence based school reform efforts has been required by the federal government in order to receive grant funding since the reenactment of No Child Left Behind (2002). Educational evaluators are thus faced with the challenge to use rigorous research designs to establish causal relationships. However,…

This dissertation examines the efficacy of a bottom-up comprehensive school reform (CSR) program by evaluating its impact on student achievement, attendance, and behavior outcomes through an explanatory mixed methods design. The CSR program (Gear Up) was implemented in an urban junior high school over the course of seven years allowing for…

Discusses an exchange of students between two seventh grade social studies classes: one in New York City, the other in Elida, Ohio. Examines important benefits for students that such domestic exchanges offer. Outlines the elements of a successful exchange. Suggests that a nationwide clearinghouse is needed to implement a domestic exchange program.…

Designed for use in a one-semester seventh-grade Ohio social studies class, this curriculum guide is divided into teaching, testing, and activity units. The primary purposes of this guide are to teach participatory citizenship and to emphasize self-learning. Twelve broad instructional objectives include the ability to: (1) interpret Article I of…