10,826 results
Search Results
2. Briefing Paper: Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health and Early Intervention (Part C)--Policies and Practices for Supporting the Social and Emotional Development and Mental Health of Infants and Toddlers in the Context of Parent-Child Relationships
- Author
-
Early Childhood Technical Assistance (ECTA) Center and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, FPG Child Development Institute
- Abstract
This briefing paper explores Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) policies and practices that state early intervention (Part C) programs may consider implementing to meet the social-emotional and mental health needs of infants and toddlers in the context of relationships with their parents and other caregivers.
- Published
- 2022
3. Earning Full Credit: A Toolkit for Designing Tax-Credit Scholarship Policies. White Paper No. 219
- Author
-
Pioneer Institute for Public Policy Research and Bedrick, Jason
- Abstract
For more than two decades, tax-credit scholarship (TCS) policies have helped American families provide their children with the learning environment that meets their individual needs. Now available in 19 states, nearly 300,000 students nationwide use tax-credit scholarships to attend the school of their family's choice. TCS policies create an incentive for taxpayers to contribute to nonprofit scholarship organizations that aid families with tuition and, in some states, other K-12 educational expenses. As with other policies, their ultimate success or failure depends greatly on how they are designed. This paper explores the central design features of TCS policies--such as eligibility, the tax credit value, credit caps, and academic accountability provisions--and outlines the different approaches taken by the TCS policies in each state. The paper also offers suggestions regarding each feature for policymakers who want to design a TCS policy that most likely to succeed at its central purpose: empowering families to provide their children with the education that works best for them. To that end, the paper recommends designing each policy element in such a way that they maximize the incentive that taxpayers have to contribute to scholarship organizations, maximize the number of families that can benefit from the scholarships, and maximize the freedom and flexibility that scholarship organizations have to serve those families. A summary of these suggestions can be found in the conclusion. Finally, the appendix offers policymakers a wide variety of additional resources, including model legislation, parent satisfaction and public opinion surveys, research of fiscal effects, various policy briefs on tax-credit scholarships, information about the constitutional landscape, and public relations resources. [Introduction by Theodor Rebarber. Foreword by Kendra Espinoza.]
- Published
- 2020
4. Appendices for NILOA Occasional Paper 48: 'Program Review and Assessment for Continuous Improvement: Asking the Right Questions'
- Author
-
National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment and Eggleston, Tami
- Abstract
"Program Review and Assessment for Continuous Improvement: Asking the Right Questions. Occasional Paper No. 48" summarizes essential questions and discussions campuses should have regarding academic program reviews and the integration of assessment into such reviews. This document contains the following Appendices related to that paper: (1) McKendree University Academic Program Review Self-Study Form; (2) Program/Major Level Assessment Report Template; (3) Major Assessment Plan Evaluation Rubric; (4) McKendree University Academic Program Review; (5) Program Review Samples; and (6) McKendree University Academic Program Review Self-Study Form. [For "Program Review and Assessment for Continuous Improvement: Asking the Right Questions. Occasional Paper No. 48," see ED608778.]
- Published
- 2020
5. Program Review and Assessment for Continuous Improvement: Asking the Right Questions. Occasional Paper No. 48
- Author
-
National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment and Eggleston, Tami
- Abstract
In October of 2019, I presented at the IUPUI Assessment Institute in Indianapolis on the topic of academic program review. While almost every campus conducts program reviews, the definition, purpose, structure, and integration of assessment in program reviews is not universally understood, accepted, or implemented. This paper summarizes essential questions and discussions campuses should have regarding program reviews and the integration of assessment into such reviews. Unfortunately, too many campuses simply keep doing the same reviews over and over. The goal for this paper is to cause campuses to pause, reflect, answer some questions, and then revise their reviews to ensure a meaningful product. The paper is organized around the essential topics of definitions, accreditation, processes, continuous improvement and "closing the loop," and potential challenges. This paper concludes with templates from McKendree University that may serve as valuable tools which other campuses may use, edit, or compare to their own processes and practices. [For the related Appendices, see ED608781.]
- Published
- 2020
6. Tracking College-to-Career Pathways for Illinois Foster Youth. Thought Papers Series. Vol. 1, Issue 2
- Author
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Office of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL) and Brown, Chequita S.
- Abstract
In Illinois, there are more than 21,000 children and youth in foster care. Approximately 26% of these individuals are 13 and older (Illinois Department of Children & Family Services [IDCFS] 2021). Although career and technical education (CTE) programs are offered at both secondary and postsecondary educational levels, little to no data about current and former foster youths' CTE program matriculation and attainment is available. Considering that foster youth are identified as a disadvantaged population under Perkins V, it is imperative to address the need for: (1) an increased awareness of and access to CTE programs among foster youth; and (2) systematic tracking of Illinois foster youths' enrollment, retention, and graduation from CTE programs at the postsecondary educational level. This brief highlights two sections within the Perkins V Act: Section 7, Definitions, which recognizes current and former foster youth as a special population; and Section 112, Accountability, which provides an overview of the state and local reporting requirements relative to CTE program outcomes for identified special populations. The brief then provides recommendations to improve statewide tracking of foster youths' postsecondary educational attempts and attainment in Illinois CTE programs.
- Published
- 2021
7. A Method for Identifying Salary Spiking: An Assessment of Pensionable Compensation and Reform in Illinois. Working Paper No. 238-0620
- Author
-
National Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research (CALDER) at American Institutes for Research, Goldhaber, Dan, Grout, Cyrus, and Holden, Kristian
- Abstract
Defined benefit (DB) pension systems determine the size of pension payments using an employee's "final average salary". Thus, employees enrolled in DB pension systems face an incentive to "salary spike" -- strategically increase late career pensionable compensation -- to increase their retirement income. This is an important issue given that public pension systems face increasing scrutiny due to ongoing concerns about their fiscal sustainability. This paper develops an empirical method to quantify the prevalence of salary spiking by identifying cases where end-of-career compensation deviates from expected levels of compensation. We apply this method to the teacher pension systems in Illinois and examine how salary spiking changed in response to policy reform. The results suggest that salary spiking is very common, with about half of late career employees observed as having pensionable compensation that exceeds expectations. Policies designed to dissuade salary spiking by internalizing its costs across districts appear to reduce the prevalence of salary spiking, but there may be unintended consequences for individuals who are "not actually spiking," as such discouraging the assignment of supplementary responsibilities to late career employees.
- Published
- 2020
8. How Much Do Teachers Value Deferred Compensation? Evidence from Defined Contribution Rate Choices. Working Paper No. 242-0920
- Author
-
National Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research (CALDER) at American Institutes for Research, Goldhaber, Dan, and Holden, Kristian L.
- Abstract
How much do teachers value compensation that is deferred until retirement? This question is important because the vast majority of public school teachers are covered by defined benefit (DB) pension plans that "backload" a large share of compensation to retirement relative to the compensation structure in the private sector. There is little evidence, other than Fitzpatrick (2015), however, about whether DB pensions are consistent with teacher preferences for current and deferred compensation. This study examines a unique setting in Washington State, where teachers enroll in a hybrid, DB-Defined Contribution (DC) pension system, and have choices over their DC contribute rate. These choices reveal preferences about the value teachers place on current versus retirement compensation. We find that teachers choose to contribute an average of 8.18 percent, significantly more than the minimum required contribution of 5 percent. This suggests that teachers value retirement compensation significantly more than previously estimated by Fitzpatrick. Potential explanations for the difference in findings from prior evidence are discussed, including estimation strategies, differences in state settings, overall plan generosity, and the potential for teachers to view DB and DC pensions as different products.
- Published
- 2020
9. The Common Core Debacle: Results from 2019 NAEP and Other Sources. White Paper No. 205
- Author
-
Pioneer Institute for Public Policy Research and Rebarber, Theodor
- Abstract
This study finds that, breaking with decades of slow improvement, U.S. reading and math scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) and other assessments have seen historic declines since most states implemented national Common Core English and math curriculum standards six years ago. This descriptive analysis is designed to be understood by a general, non-technical readership. It primarily compares student achievement gains on the NAEP after implementation of Common Core to student achievement gains in the years preceding implementation of Common Core. Since test score results, by their nature, tend to "bounce" somewhat from one year to the next and gains are rarely perfectly smooth, a significant part of the analysis determines the average annual gain since implementation of Common Core and compares that to the average annual gain before implementation of Common Core. This report also includes a section addressing defenses by Common Core advocates denying responsibility for the poor results. The following state samples are included: (1) California; (2) Florida; (3) Georgia; (4) Illinois; (5) Kentucky; (6) Massachusetts; and (7) New York.
- Published
- 2020
10. Innovation and Deeper Learning: Volume 2. A White Paper of the Stark Education Partnership
- Author
-
Stark Education Partnership
- Abstract
When does a community create and sustain a truly innovative "next generation" high school that not only remains innovative, but also relevant? According to the Carnegie Corporation, this means seizing the opportunity to redesign schools to promote personalized learning. So far, much work has gone into retooling many of these (reform) elements individually. Many states, districts, and schools have made essential progress in changing teacher preparation and professional development to help talented educators enter and stay in the classroom. There have also been pushes for interventions like additional learning time, new curricula, and new technology, much of which has been shown to have a significant impact on student achievement. However, applied individually, each of these fails to get schools and school systems where they need to be to serve every student. This white paper will explore the issues through the perspectives of several members of the Atlantic Rim Collaboratory, who are attempting to share ideas and concepts on system redesign, by examples of schools that are making deep learning a priority through technology and by examples of initiatives and schools that have made personalized learning and mastery the focus of what they do. All these approaches are important for they become part of a comprehensive whole that can drive meaningful change. [For "Innovation and Deeper Learning: Model High Schools," see ED604591.]
- Published
- 2018
11. Apprenticeship in Brief. A Discussion Paper
- Author
-
Committee for Economic Development of The Conference Board (CED) and Cheney, Gretchen Rhines
- Abstract
A growing number of U.S. companies across a range of industries are designing apprenticeship programs to give workers access to on-the-job learning opportunities that allow them to transition into in-demand jobs and careers. This discussion paper provides a snapshot of the current state of apprenticeship in the United States based on interviews with national experts and key stakeholders engaged in apprenticeship implementation, including employers, community colleges, unions, and intermediaries. It explores what is needed to build successful programs and highlights current federal and state policy efforts to encourage registered apprenticeship expansion, noting barriers and lessons learned. Four recommendations for how to grow registered apprenticeship opportunities in the United States are: (1) Provide standardized models; (2) Reduce complexity; (3) Measure Value; and (4) Learn from Innovative Models. A sidebar presents examples of state incentives and supports for apprenticeship programs in Colorado, Maryland, and South Carolina. [This paper was produced with funding from the Nestlé USA corporation.]
- Published
- 2017
12. Interpretation and Use of K-12 Language Proficiency Assessment Score Reports: Perspectives of Educators and Parents. WCER Working Paper No. 2016-8
- Author
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin Center for Education Research (WCER), Kim, Ahyoung Alicia, Kondo, Akira, Blair, Alissa, Mancilla, Lorena, Chapman, Mark, and Wilmes, Carsten
- Abstract
A number of English language proficiency exams target grades K-12 English language learners (ELLs) because of the rising need to identify their needs and provide appropriate support in language learning. A good example is the WIDA ACCESS for ELLs (hereafter ACCESS), designed to measure the English language proficiency of students identified as ELLs. Every year approximately two million K-12 ELLs in the WIDA Consortium take ACCESS. After students complete the exam, score reports are provided to relevant stakeholders, including teachers and parents of the students. Because score reports are widely used by stakeholders for many purposes (e.g., placement, reclassification of ELLs), it is necessary to understand how they are interpreted and used in educational and home settings. Such information could be used to understand the usefulness of score reports and also to enhance their quality. However, there is little research on stakeholders' interpretation and use of score reports, especially in the context of K-12 ELL exams in the Unites States. Existing research is limited to teachers' interpretation of score reports (Impara, Divine, Bruce, Liverman, & Gay, 1991; Luecht, 2003; Underwood, Zapata-Rivera, & VanWinkle, 2007). For example, Impara et al. (1991) investigated the extent to which teachers were able to interpret student-level results on a standardized state assessment and the extent to which interpretive information provided on the reverse side of the student score report improved teacher understanding. Findings suggest that interpretive material helped facilitate teachers' understanding of student scores on the assessment. However, few studies have examined how stakeholders actually use the interpreted information. Moreover, very few (Miller & Watkins, 2010) have examined score reports from the parents' perspective. To gain a deeper understanding of the meaningfulness and utility of score reports, it is necessary to examine both educators' and parents' perspectives. The study on which this paper is based investigated how two stakeholder groups--K-12 ELL educators and parents--interpret and use ACCESS score reports. Findings from qualitative interviews offer implications for score report development in general and how to further enhance the quality of ACCESS score reports. In the study, the authors addressed the following research questions: (1) How do K-12 ELL educators and parents interpret the information in an English proficiency exam score report?; and (2) How do K-12 ELL educators and parents use the information in an English proficiency exam score report?
- Published
- 2016
13. The Impact of Partnership-Centered, Community-Based Learning on First-Year Students' Academic Research Papers
- Author
-
Feldman, Ann M., Moss, Tom, Chin, Diane, Marie, Megan, Rai, Candice, and Graham, Rebecca
- Abstract
This article presents a control group study of the influence of a partnership-centered, community-based learning program on students' academic writing. The improved writing of first-year students in the Chicago Civic Leadership Certificate Program (CCLCP), we argue, results from the deeply situated learning that took place in the context of reciprocal, community-based relationships. We also argue that research on the impact of community-based learning should take into account the contemporary university's emerging paradigm of engaged learning and research, which calls for a redefinition of partnership and reciprocity. (Contains 5 tables and 4 notes.)
- Published
- 2006
14. Getting to Better Prep: A State Guide for Teacher Preparation Data Systems. Working Paper
- Author
-
TNTP
- Abstract
This report is drafted with state leaders and policy makers in mind, including those who work with or support these education leaders. The information shared in this report will likely be most relevant to states that have either not yet considered a new data system on teacher preparation providers, are only now starting to consider the idea, or are currently embarking on plans to design and implement such a system. This report offers two primary functions to readers. First, it illustrates the benefits of teacher preparation data systems as they have been experienced by states who have them or are building them. It makes the case for this work through "real-life" examples. Second, it offers best practices to help states in moving forward on planning and implementing such systems, drawn from the direct experiences of the featured states. Featured states in this report include: Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Illinois, and Louisiana. Each best practice is accompanied by at least one example of how a featured state chose to implement it. Readers should use the best practices offered in this report as a set of guideposts that every state that has done this work believes are critical elements of the process. States should execute each guidepost in the way that is most effective for their own needs. The various examples illustrate how a state could choose to execute the best practice while making clear that states take different approaches to the same practice.
- Published
- 2017
15. The Untapped Potential of an Early Childhood Assessment System: A Strategy for Improving Policies and Instruction from Early Childhood through 3rd Grade. White Paper
- Author
-
National Governors Association, Szekely, Amanda, and Wat, Albert
- Abstract
Children's academic and social development before third grade is highly predictive of later success in school and beyond. Research shows that during those early years, the gains children make in language and literacy, mathematics and social skills, and their growth as learners and thinkers are associated with a range of benefits, from academic achievement to economic stability to healthy habits and behaviors. "The Untapped Potential of an Early Childhood Assessment System: A Strategy for Improving Policies and Instruction from Early Childhood through 3rd Grade" outlines how state leaders can reduce or streamline the assessments being used in early learning programs and elementary schools, achieve economies of scale for educator training and leverage existing data systems to yield more powerful data to inform decision-making.
- Published
- 2016
16. The Educating Neighborhood: How Villages Raise Their Children. Kettering Foundation Working Paper [2015:01]
- Author
-
Kettering Foundation and McKnight, John
- Abstract
Almost everyone is familiar with the African saying, "It takes a village to raise a child." However, there are very few "villages" that actually engage in this practice. The educational assets of the village include the knowledge of neighborhood residents, the clubs, groups, and associations that are citizen-based learning environments and the local institutions (businesses, not-for-profits, and government bodies). They all provide incredible learning opportunities. It is these neighborhood educational assets that are activated in a village that raises its children. In most communities, however, these invaluable resources are unused and disconnected from the lives of young people. It appears that in one to two generations, villages have lost their power to raise children. Their functions have largely been transferred to schools. This transfer is reflected by the fact that in the last generation, schools have been asked to take responsibility for the health, safety, food, recreation, behavior, moral values, and entrepreneurial development of young people. This Kettering Foundation working paper by John McKnight, codirector of the Asset-Based Community Development Institute (ABCD), Northwestern University, presents some of ABCD's research in assisting people in local neighborhoods to identify the local teaching knowledge.
- Published
- 2015
17. Scaling Completion College Services as a Model for Increasing Adult Degree Completion. Lumina Issue Papers
- Author
-
Lumina Foundation for Education, Johnson, Nate, and Bell, Alli
- Abstract
An estimated 46 million adults have some college education but have not completed their degrees. For many, especially those who have accumulated several years' worth of credits, the inability to finish college remains a frustration. If the United States is to achieve its ambitious education attainment goals, many more adults with such experience must finish their degrees. While there is a role in this effort for every college and university, "Completion Colleges" offer an extremely cost-effective route to degrees for students who have substantial amounts of prior credit or experiences that can be translated into credit through prior-learning assessment. Serving adults with some college experience, while widely recognized as important, rarely gets the same attention from policymakers, trustee boards, and the news media as other key issues in American higher education. This paper, supported by Lumina Foundation, highlights the potential of Completion College services to help states, higher education systems, and separately accredited institutions to affordably graduate larger numbers of adults who have stepped out of college. There clearly is a market nationally for the types of flexible, student-centered, outcomes-based degree programs Completion Colleges deliver. In the vast majority of states that do not have a Completion College, this demand is often met by for-profit colleges, which market aggressively to recruit non-traditional students. Completion Colleges offer a public or nonprofit alternative to these students, for whom traditional public institutions are not always well suited. States with Completion Colleges are benefiting from a decades-old service model that is as relevant today as when the institutions were created. The potential for scaling these models is strong and should be explored.
- Published
- 2014
18. Foundations for Young Adult Success: A Developmental Framework. Concept Paper for Research and Practice
- Author
-
University of Chicago Consortium on Chicago School Research, Nagaoka, Jenny, Farrington, Camille A., Ehrlich, Stacy B., and Heath, Ryan D.
- Abstract
Amid growing recognition that strong academic skills alone are not enough for young people to become successful adults, this comprehensive report offers wide-ranging evidence to show what young people need to develop from preschool to young adulthood to succeed in college and career, have healthy relationships, be engaged citizens, and make wise choices. It concludes that rich experiences combining action and reflection help children develop a set of critical skills, attitudes, and behaviors. And it suggests that policies should aim to ensure that all children have consistent, supportive relationships and an abundance of these developmental experiences through activities inside and outside of school. The Wallace Foundation awarded a competitive grant to UChicago CCSR in 2013 to undertake the project, which included a review of relevant literature spanning decades as well as interviews with national experts in research, policy and practice, and young people and the adults who work with them in schools, programs and agencies throughout Chicago. The report offers evidence to show how, where, and when the "key factors" to success develop from early childhood through young adulthood, emphasizing the kinds of experiences and supportive relationships that guide the positive development of these factors. Recognizing that there are no silver bullets to promoting social-emotional learning, the report emphasizes a range of factors that build on one another over time. It also emphasizes factors that are particularly malleable, as well as the age at which each of the key factors comes into prominence, offering adults the most promising window for positive intervention. A key problem the report identifies is that disadvantaged youth often face extra challenges. For example, they often have fewer in-school and out-of-school opportunities for consistent, positive developmental experiences and relationships and face significant opportunity gaps to developing the essential skills to become productive adults. An appendix provides a list of experts who provided input and feedback throughout this project. [This report was written with David W. Johnson, Sarah Dickson, Ashley Cureton Turner, Ashley Mayo, and Kathleen Hayes.]
- Published
- 2015
19. Unlocking Young Children's Potential: Governors' Role in Strengthening Early Mathematics Learning. NGA Paper
- Author
-
National Governors Association, Center for Best Practices and Szekely, Amanda
- Abstract
As governors respond to the need to significantly improve the quality of public education, they should consider incorporating stronger actions to improve mathematics instruction as part of their overall reform agenda. Governors can take the following actions to promote high-quality mathematics instruction for young children: (1) Become a champion for improvements in the quality of early math education with legislators, business leaders, educators, parents, and students; (2) Align high-quality mathematics standards through the educational pipeline, and support appropriate use of student assessments to measure results. State leaders could consider raising standards for the math skills and concepts children should learn in their state's early learning guidelines; and (3) Promote changes in policies that improve educator preparation and that support their capacity to teach mathematics to young children. Although governors are already strong proponents of early reading initiatives, they have an opportunity to become champions for improving early mathematics instruction in their states, as well. Many of the actions described in this brief require no or minimal new state funding and can help lay the groundwork for a state's focus on high-quality early mathematics teaching and learning.
- Published
- 2014
20. The Value of Postsecondary Credentials in the Labor Market: An Experimental Study. A CAPSEE Working Paper
- Author
-
Center for Analysis of Postsecondary Education and Employment (CAPSEE), Deming, David J., Yuchtman, Noam, Abulafi, Amira, Goldin, Claudia, and Katz, Lawrence F.
- Abstract
We study employers' perceptions of postsecondary degrees using a field experiment. We randomly assign the sector and selectivity of institution to fictitious resumes and send them to real vacancy postings on a large online job board. According to our results, a bachelor's degree in business from a for-profit "online" institution is 22 percent less likely to receive a callback than a similar degree from a non-selective public institution. Degrees from selective public institutions are relatively more likely to receive callbacks from employers posting higher-salaried jobs, suggesting that employers value college quality and the likelihood of a successful match when contacting applicants. "Measuring Job Quality by Collecting Job Title-Specific Salaries" is appended.
- Published
- 2014
21. Left behind by Design: Proficiency Counts and Test-Based Accountability. Working Paper
- Author
-
Urban Institute, Neal, Derek, and Schanzenbach, Diane Whitmore
- Abstract
Many test-based accountability systems, including the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB), place great weight on the numbers of students who score at or above specified proficiency levels in various subjects. Accountability systems based on these metrics often provide incentives for teachers and principals to target children near current proficiency levels for extra attention, but these same systems provide weak incentives to devote extra attention to students who are clearly proficient already or who have little chance of becoming proficient in the near term. The authors show that, based on fifth grade test scores from the Chicago Public Schools, both the introduction of NCLB in 2002 and the introduction of similar district level reforms in 1996 generated noteworthy increases in reading and math scores among students in the middle of the achievement distribution. Nonetheless, the least academically advantaged students in Chicago did not score higher in math or reading following the introduction of accountability, and the authors find only mixed evidence of score gains among the most advantaged students. A large existing literature argues that accountability systems built around standardized tests greatly affect the amount of time that teachers devote to different topics. Results for fifth graders in Chicago, as well as related results for sixth graders after the 1996 reform, suggest that the choice of the proficiency standard in such accountability systems determines the amount of time that teachers devote to students of different ability levels. Appendices include: (1) Data Construction; and (2) Proof. (Contains 33 footnotes, 14 figures, and 1 table.) [This paper was presented at the "NCLB: Emerging Findings Research Conference" at the Urban Institute, Washington, D.C. on August 12, 2009.]
- Published
- 2009
22. Title I and Early Childhood Programs: A Look at Investments in the NCLB Era. CLASP Child Care and Early Education Series. Policy Paper No. 2
- Author
-
Center for Law and Social Policy, Washington, DC., Ewen, Danielle, and Matthews, Hannah
- Abstract
This paper explores the range of ways in which school districts are using Title I funds for early education through kindergarten and examines how the implementation of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) has impacted those investments. It also makes recommendations for local education agencies (LEAs) interested in creating Title I-funded early education programs or thinking about how to sustain such investments in the face of policy and funding challenges. The Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) spent more than two years examining strategies to encourage and sustain Title I investments in high-quality early education programs in local communities. Building on research and analysis in "Missed Opportunities? The Possibilities and Challenges of Funding High-Quality Preschool through Title I of the No Child Left Behind Act", the Center conducted Web-based research to identify promising models, review local policies and documents, and find local policymakers to interview. Staff also used ongoing conversations with early education administrators to identify more than 100 schools and districts with some history of using Title I for early education programs. CLASP conducted interviews with more than 30 states and districts, including districts with increasing Title I allocations and others with decreasing allocations, and districts in states with a history of investments in pre-kindergarten and others in states without such a history, using a survey protocol developed to understand how schools and districts are using Title I for early education, the history of these investments, and the barriers and flexibility in the law. CLASP interviewed state and local Title I directors, early childhood directors, and district superintendents and, where possible, collected financial information on Title I early education investments. This paper discusses: (1) Federal and state funding for early education; (2) Opportunity of Title I funding for early education; (3) Story behind Title I investments in early education, through illustrations of a range of models from school districts; (4) How NCLB is impacting Title I investments in early education; and (5) Recommendations for LEAs. The report concludes that using Title I funds for early education is not a new idea: many schools and districts have been using these funds to invest in young children for decades. Although accountability requirements of NCLB have created new challenges to sustaining or expanding those investments, NCLB also offers an opportunity and an incentive to support the nation's youngest students. Many LEAs are committed to supporting early education, and several openings and strategies exist that may enable LEAs to take advantage of the flexibility of Title I funds to use them to support early education and to support broad educational goals. There is, however, emerging evidence that the requirements of NCLB and the limited funding available are putting district policymakers in the difficult position of defunding successful early childhood programs. In addition to actions that LEAs can take, the report advocates that there are also ways in which NCLB could be improved to support high-quality early education. CLASP has issued a set of federal recommendations for reauthorization of NCLB. They include: (1) Improved data collection; (2) Enhanced language on transitions between community-based early childhood programs and local schools; (3) Sustaining and supporting local flexibility in use of funds for discretionary purposes; (4) Ensuring that joint professional development opportunities are available to build knowledge of child development and appropriate practices with English language learners (ELLs); (5) Encouraging state education agencies (SEAs) to use set-aside funds to promote and support early childhood programs at the local level; and (6) Increased funding. A long-term strategy to successfully create and sustain sound investments in young children will take efforts and strong leadership at all levels. (Contains 88 endnotes.) [For "Missed Opportunities? The Possibilities and Challenges of Funding High-Quality Preschool through Title I of the No Child Left Behind Act", see ED484650.]
- Published
- 2007
23. An Investigation of the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago's 2012-2013 Get Re-Energized Module. Working Paper #40
- Author
-
Michigan State University, Education Policy Center, Schmidt, William H., and Cogan, Leland S.
- Abstract
Assessments of U.S. students typically reveal stronger performance in science than mathematics yet their science performance remains uninspiring at best. Whether the metric considered is an international benchmark from TIMSS or PISA or the nation's NAEP report card, the mediocre portrait of U.S. science achievement has remained virtually unchanged over the past 20 years. The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) is a readily accessible resource not only to the people of Chicago but also to a much larger multistate area. MSI has taken the initiative to establish an active and ongoing multifaceted working relationship with the Chicago Public Schools and other local schools, particularly those serving high-needs student populations. The issues of lackluster student achievement in science and science teachers' access to quality professional capacity-building experiences led MSI to form the Institute for Quality Science Teaching (IQST). This study's main focus was to evaluate the first of IQST's course goals, improving teachers' content knowledge, in one IQST course. The module selected for this evaluation project was the Get Re-Energized (GRE) module that focuses on energy topics, a part of the physical sciences and an area of particularly weak performance for U.S. students.
- Published
- 2014
24. Challenging the Politics of the Teacher Accountability Movement: Toward a More Hopeful Educational Future. Occasional Paper Series 27
- Author
-
Bank Street College of Education and Bank Street College of Education
- Abstract
Guest editors Gail Boldt and William Ayers have asked 14 leading educators to address the politics of the teacher accountability movement in America. Who benefits and who is hurt? What is gained and what is lost? How can we move forward with a more hopeful and inclusive vision of our educational future? All of the contributors are motivated by an abiding commitment to democratic ideals and respect for the complex work of teachers even as they encourage the reader to take back the conversation about school reform in America. This publication begins with a preface by Gail M. Boldt and an introduction by William Ayers. Part I contains: (1) Accountability and the Contemporary Intellectual (Greg Dimitriadis and Marc Lamont Hill); (2) The Teacher Accountability Debate (Diane Ravitch); and (3) Educational (Reform) Revolution (Peter Taubman). Part II contains: (4) Racing to the Top: Who's Accounting for the Children? (Celia Genishi and Anne Haas Dyson); (5) "If We Look to Buy the Cheapest Paper, Why Not the Cheapest Teachers?" (Fred Klonsky); (6) Schooling of and for Democracy (Deborah Meier); and (7) The New Orleans Reformed Public School System: National Model? (Raynard Sanders). Part III contains: (1) Silver Linings (Gil Schmerler); (2) Creating the Schools We Need (Pedro A. Noguera); (3) A Glass Half Full (Jeff Duncan-Andrade); and (4) Flip the Script (Kevin K. Kumashiro and Erica R. Meiners). "Coda" by Gail M. Boldt is also included. Individual papers contain references and footnotes.
- Published
- 2012
25. State Policy Differences Greatly Impact AYP Numbers. A Background Paper from the Center on Education Policy
- Author
-
Center on Education Policy, Riddle, Wayne, and Kober, Nancy
- Abstract
When Congress reauthorizes the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), much of the debate will undoubtedly focus on the accountability requirements added to Title I by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB). Title I authorizes federal aid to school districts to educate low-achieving children in low-income areas. Among the most controversial of these NCLB requirements are the provisions for determining whether schools and districts have made adequate yearly progress (AYP) in raising student achievement in reading and mathematics. This background paper from the Center on Education Policy (CEP) explores some of the factors that have influenced recent trends in the national percentage of public schools that have not made AYP, out of the total number of schools that reported AYP results. This paper is intended to serve as a companion to the report, "Update with 2009-10 Data and Five-Year Trends: How Many Schools Have Not Made Adequate Yearly Progress?" (CEP, 2011). As discussed in more detail in that five-year trend report, the national percentage of public schools failing to make AYP rose from 29% in 2006 to an estimated 38% in 2010 and actually decreased in two of the interim years. Although 38% is a record high percentage of schools not making AYP, it is still lower than what many observers had predicted by this point in NCLB implementation. CEP's analysis focused on 10 large or medium-sized states that had the greatest increases or decreases in the number of schools not making AYP or had other noteworthy AYP trends: California, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington. Its analysis revealed several factors, in addition to changes in student learning, that appear to account for some of the fluctuations in the national percentage of schools not making AYP and may help explain why these percentages have not escalated as quickly as some analysts have predicted. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) National trends in the percentage of schools not making AYP have been affected disproportionately by trends in a limited subset of states; (2) Changes in state testing policies have slowed, or even reversed, increases in the number of schools failing to make AYP in several states; (3) The NCLB "safe harbor" provision has also helped somewhat in keeping down the share of schools failing to make AYP in certain states; (4) The use of growth models appears to have had a limited impact on AYP trends in most of the growth model states analyzed; (5) In most of the states analyzed, the number of schools failing to make AYP increased substantially in the years when the state's achievement targets went up; (6) States that introduced new tests saw substantial short-term increases or decreases in the number of schools failing to make AYP; (7) In some states, changes in the number of schools not making AYP are largely attributable to changes in the cut scores defining "proficient" performance on state tests; (8) North Carolina's experience suggests that counting proficient scores from retests can reduce the number of schools failing to make AYP--especially in the short term; and (9) Even if most or all states adopt common standards and common assessments, variations in state accountability policies could continue to make it impossible to arrive at meaningful comparisons about the performance of different states. (Contains 6 footnotes.) [For the companion report, "Update with 2009-10 Data and Five-Year Trends: How Many Schools Have Not Made Adequate Yearly Progress?," see ED518993.]
- Published
- 2011
26. Preservice Teachers' Reflection on Clinical Experiences: A Comparison of Blog and Final Paper Assignments
- Author
-
Harland, Darci J. and Wondra, Joshua D.
- Abstract
This study focused on the depth of reflection in the writing of preservice teachers who completed end-of-the-semester reflective papers or reflective blogs for undergraduate education courses associated with clinical experiences. Coders rated the depth of reflection as one of four categories: non-reflection, understanding, reflection, or critical reflection. Our analyses revealed that preservice teachers who completed blogs showed higher levels of reflection in their writing compared to those who completed papers. Additionally, the blogs had the added advantage of being shorter by 1,000 words on average. We did not observe any relationship between peer or instructor feedback and overall depth of reflection. We then discuss the importance of teaching reflection and provide suggestions for implementing blog reflections in teacher education courses. (Contains 1 table.)
- Published
- 2011
27. Online and Paper Course Evaluations
- Author
-
Guder, Faruk and Malliaris, Mary
- Abstract
The purpose of this study is to compare the results of paper and online evaluations. The following analysis examines data from six departments of the School of Business Administration during a programmed switch from paper to online evaluations. The courses that participated in this study were divided and compared in the following manner: advanced and core classes, large and small sections, and courses taught by full-time and part-time faculty. The data was collected over a one-year period and contrasts the Spring 2008 and 2009 semesters, during which a total of 4,424 evaluations were reviewed. In addition, data on the years from 2005 to 2008 are provided as a comparison benchmark of typical responses collected when paper evaluations were used. The conclusions of this study show that while a drop in response rate did occur when the switch was made, no significant change in instructor and course ratings was observed. Furthermore, the students who did complete online evaluations provided lengthier and more numerous comments.
- Published
- 2010
28. Annual Proceedings of Selected Papers on the Practice of Educational Communications and Technology Presented at the Annual Convention of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (33rd, Anaheim, California, 2010). Volume 2
- Author
-
Association for Educational Communications and Technology and Simonson, Michael
- Abstract
For the thirty-third year, the Research and Theory Division of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) is sponsoring the publication of these Proceedings. This is Volume #2 of the 33rd "Annual Proceedings of Selected Papers on the Practice of Educational Communications and Technology." This volume includes papers presented at the national convention of the Association for Educational Communications and Technology held in Anaheim, California. The papers in this volume primarily deal with instruction and training issues. Papers dealing with research and development are contained in the companion volume (Volume #1). (Individual papers contain references, tables, and figures.) [For Volume 1, see ED514646.]
- Published
- 2010
29. Institutional Transfer and the Management of Risk in Higher Education. WISCAPE Working Paper
- Author
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin Center for the Advancement of Postsecondary Education, Deil-Amen, Regina, and Goldrick-Rab, Sara
- Abstract
By probing the micro-level interactions and experiences shaping students' thoughts, behaviors, and decisions during college the authors hope to generate a better picture of how individuals enact the intersection of their own agency with their given social context. Such insights may enable a more accurate and meaningful interpretation of the association between parental education, first-year GPA, and reverse transfer. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the "remain or reverse transfer" decision more closely by focusing on how it occurs among graduates of Chicago Public Schools (CPS). This study reveals the multiple and complex ways in which a sample of low SES four-year college students enact choices and strategies that have an impact whether or not they remain on a four-year trajectory or experience reverse mobility. Findings demonstrate how the nuances of the pre-college goal-setting process have implications not just for access to college but also for students' trajectories through college. The importance of risk-inducing contexts and risk-management strategies emerge prominently, with the role of social capital in negotiating this process gaining central focus. As the authors see from the quantitative findings, CPS students who enroll in 4-year colleges experience reverse transfer at relatively high rates, and this pathway increases their risk of non-completion. Moving beyond the role of parental education, this analysis of qualitative data highlights the pivotal role of advocates in helping students negotiate institutional contexts that induce risk and present serious academic and financial challenges. (Contains 14 endnotes 2 tables.)
- Published
- 2009
30. What Does a College Degree Cost? Comparing Approaches to Measuring 'Cost Per Degree'. Delta Cost Project White Paper Series
- Author
-
Delta Project on Postsecondary Education Costs, Productivity and Accountability and Johnson, Nate
- Abstract
What does it cost to provide a bachelor's-level education? This question arises with increasing frequency and urgency as pressure mounts on policymakers and education leaders to increase the education attainment level in the United States, to "Double the Numbers" in some cases. At the same time, the two traditional sources of financing--state appropriations and private tuition payments--show signs of being stretched to their limits. Yet determining the cost of a degree is not a simple question to answer in a system that has made enrollments--i.e., the credit hour, the FTE--the primary unit of accounting, rather than the completed degree. Even with credit hours, only a minority of state systems, such as Florida, Illinois and Minnesota, routinely analyze instructional costs at a level of detail beyond institution and instructional level totals. While there has been considerable effort invested in analyzing college costs, no consensus or common language has emerged to describe how the cost of a degree should be measured. Consensus around a single method may be neither possible nor desirable, given the range of different policy contexts in which the question comes up. A common language, however, could help keep discussions of the issue more focused than they often are. This paper suggests the beginnings of that language by briefly outlining five approaches to degree costs: (1) Catalog cost; (2) Transcript cost; (3) Full cost attribution; (4) Regression-based cost estimates; and (5) Student's cost of a degree. Appended are: (1) Detailed tables; and (2) SPSS scripts and output for stepwise regression analysis. (Contains 23 tables and 22 footnotes.) [Funding for this paper was provided by Making Opportunity Affordable, an initiative of Lumina Foundation for Education.]
- Published
- 2009
31. Research: Providing Answers for the New Millennium. Presented Papers and Paper Critiques [from the] AAAE (American Association of Agricultural Education) Central Region Agricultural Education Research Conference (55th, St. Louis, MO, February 23, 2001).
- Author
-
Gliem, Joe A.
- Abstract
This document contains the following papers: "Cognitive Abilities of Oak Harbor High School Agricultural Education Students" (Mark F. Starkey, Jamie Cano); "Development and Evaluation of Hands-on Learning Activities in Indiana High School Animal Science Classes" (Kendra Koster, Mark A. Balschweid); "Teaching Biology Using Agriculture as the Context: Perceptions of High School Students" (Mark A. Balschweid); "Assessing and Comparing the Scheduling Systems Utilized by Agricultural Education Programs in Illinois" (Andrew J. Baker); "Characteristics of Elementary Teachers Explaining Integration of Agricultural Awareness Activities in the Curriculum" (Neil A. Knoblock, Robert A. Martin); "Stakeholder Perceptions of Their Transition to an Agricultural Magnet School in the Midwest: A Case Study" (Linda Moody, Lloyd C. Bell); "Expert Perceptions of the Future of Agricultural Education in Illinois" (Joe G. Harper, Bret Hitchings); "Leading Like a Woman in a Man's World: Women's Conceptualizations of Leadership in the Agricultural Industry" (Amanda E. Corn); "Structuring Agricultural Education Research Using Conceptual and Theoretical Frameworks" (James E. Dyer, Penny S. Haase Wittler, Shannon G. Washburn); "Attitude of Vocational Teachers Towards Teacher Evaluation" (Jamie Cano, Barrett Zimmerman); "The Impact of Participating in Freshmen Interest Groups and Agricultural Youth Organizations on Agriculture Students' Academic Performance and Retention" (Anna L. Ball, Bryan L. Garton, James E. Dyer); "Relationship between Learning Style and Personality Type of Students Majoring and Minoring in Agricultural Education at The Ohio State University" (Tracy Kitchel, Jamie Cano); "Agricultural Extension Educators' Perceptions regarding Teaching Methods and Tools for Educating Farmers about Sustainable Agricultural Practices" (K.S.U. Jayaratne, Robert A. Martin); "Assessing and Prioritizing Present Inservice Needs and Evaluating Past Inservicing Programming Designed for Illinois Agricultural Education Instructors" (Andrew J. Baker); "Job Satisfaction among Agricultural Teacher Educators: New Directions in Measurement" (Jamie X. Castillo, Jamie Cano); "An Assessment of Desktop Videoconferencing's Potential to Enhance Communication and Student Teacher Supervision in Agricultural Education" (John Kessell, Greg Miller); "Characteristics of Learners Explaining the Benefit of Student Interaction in a Distance- and Technology-Situated Environment" (Neil A. Knobloch); and "The Professional Development Needs of Kansas Teachers of Agriculture" (Shannon G. Washburn, Brad O. King, Bryan L. Garton, Steven R. Harbstreit). Each paper is followed by a one-page critique by either Rosemary Gleim, Mark Zidon, R. Kirby Barrick, or Lloyd C. Bell. Most papers include substantial bibliographies. (MN)
- Published
- 2001
32. Quality Control in K-12 Digital Learning: Three (Imperfect) Approaches. Creating Healthy Policy for Digital Learning. A Working Paper Series from the Thomas B. Fordham Institute
- Author
-
Thomas B. Fordham Institute and Hess, Frederick M.
- Abstract
Digital learning makes possible the "unbundling" of school provisions--that is, it allows children to be served by providers from almost anywhere, in new and more customized ways. At the same time, because it destandardizes and decentralizes educational delivery, digital education is far harder to bring under the yoke of the quality-control systems and metrics that have been devised for traditional school structures. In this paper, Hess explores the pros and cons of input regulation, outcome-based accountability, and market signals as solutions to the quality challenge. In the end, he recommends using all three approaches in careful combination so as to leverage their strengths and offset their weaknesses. In practice, that means demanding transparent financial information from providers, holding them to account for student achievement gains whenever possible, and developing "crowd-sourcing" reporting systems to help educators, parents, and students identify the most effective purveyors of online learning. (Contains 14 footnotes.)
- Published
- 2011
33. Designing and Testing Evaluation Tools to Inform Foundation Education Reforms and Build Grantee Capacity. WCER Working Paper No. 2010-1
- Author
-
Wisconsin Center for Education Research, Kimball, Steven M., Lander, Rachel, and Thorn, Christopher A.
- Abstract
Beginning in 2002, The Chicago Community Trust embarked on an ambitious grant- making strategy to improve education outcomes primarily in the city of Chicago and Cook County, Illinois. Known as The Education Initiative, this effort focused on three priority grant areas: literacy, professional development, and alternative models of schools. In June, 2005 (the 3rd year of the initiative), the Trust awarded a contract to researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin Center for Education Research (WCER) to assess the impact of the Education Initiative. During the 3rd year of the evaluation, the program officers and evaluators were especially interested in pilot testing evaluation guidelines that were developed as part of the overall evaluation of the Education Initiative. These guidelines and related evaluation reporting tools were intended to help grantees tailor projects to the foundations priorities, and help the foundation assess the impact of their diverse grant activities. The authors report on the design and pilot testing of the evaluation guidelines and reporting tools developed to support the education program of the Trust. The next section describes the impetus for developing these tools and the evaluation findings that informed their design. In the fourth section, the authors briefly describe the pilot study design and the participants. They also report findings from the pilot study. In the final section, they describe implications for use of the guidelines and tools by the Trust and other foundations. Appendices include: (1) Draft CCT Evaluation Guidelines; (2) Draft Evaluation Plan Template; and (3) Logic Model Example Adapted from BSF Grantee Model. (Contains 1 table, 7 footnotes, and 2 figures.) [This paper was written with Katie Herrem.]
- Published
- 2010
34. Leading for Early Success: Building School Principals' Capacity to Lead High-Quality Early Education. NGA Paper
- Author
-
National Governors Association, Center for Best Practices and Szekely, Amanda
- Abstract
Decades of research find that effective school leadership and access to high-quality early education are two of the most important determinants of educational outcomes. School principals affect both teacher and student performance and play an important role in turning around troubled schools. High-quality education, from prekindergarten (pre-K) through third grade builds foundational knowledge and skills that prepare students for long-term success. Although governors have acted in recent years to address these two issues separately, efforts to harness the potential of school leaders to promote high-quality education for young children have been more limited. Most states' principal preparation systems could be improved to better equip elementary school principals to evaluate pre-K through third-grade (P-3) teachers, support improvements in teaching and learning, and guide teachers in using curricula and assessments in the earliest grades. This issue brief makes the case for why governors should consider building elementary school principals' capacity as P-3 leaders and outlines specific state policy strategies for accomplishing this goal. To illuminate how this works in practice, a case study from Illinois highlights how this state is including early learning content in the principal preparation process.
- Published
- 2013
35. The Demise of Higher Education Performance Funding Systems in Three States. CCRC Working Paper No.17
- Author
-
Dougherty, Kevin J. and Natow, Rebecca S.
- Abstract
Performance funding in higher education ties state funding directly to institutional performance on specific indicators, such as rates of retention, graduation, and job placement. One of the great puzzles about performance funding is that it has been both popular and unstable. Between 1979 and 2007, 26 states enacted it, but 14 of those states later dropped it (though two recently reestablished it). To shed light on the causes of this unstable institutionalization of performance funding, we examined three states that have experienced different forms of program cessation--Illinois, Washington, and Florida. For our analysis of the factors leading these three states to abandon performance funding systems, we drew upon interviews and documentary analyses that we conducted in these states. Our interviews were with state and local higher education officials, legislators and staff, governors and their advisors, and business leaders. The documents we analyzed included state government legislation, policy declarations and reports, newspaper accounts, and analyses by other investigators. We inevitably found that factors unique to one or another state played a role in the demise of performance funding. Nonetheless, we also found several common features: (1) A sharp drop in higher education funding (present in Florida and Illinois); (2) A lack of support by higher education institutions for the continuation of performance funding (all three states); (3) The loss of key supporters of performance funding (all three states); (4) Weak support by the business community (Florida and Illinois); and (5) The establishment of performance funding through a budget proviso rather than a statute (Illinois and Washington). The final section of this paper discusses the implications of these findings for advocates of performance funding. (Contains 11 footnotes, and 2 tables.) [Abstract modified to meet ERIC guidelines. For associated brief, see ED505706.]
- Published
- 2009
36. The Lincoln Legal Papers Curriculum: Understanding Illinois Social History through Documents from the Law Practice of Abraham Lincoln, 1836-1861.
- Author
-
Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, Springfield., McBride, Lawrence W., and Drake, Frederick D.
- Abstract
This curriculum considers the social history of Illinois during the years of 1836-1861 by studying Abraham Lincoln's legal papers from his time as a lawyer. Nearly 100,000 documents have been discovered in the archives of local, county, state, federal courts, libraries, and other repositories. The documents include detailed information about the daily life of ordinary people in Illinois during the years of Lincoln's legal practice. The curriculum states that using these primary source documents in the study of Illinois history can help teachers and students accomplish three goals: (1) foster the development of history's "habits of mind," which helps students think more critically about the past; (2) learn about the stories of ordinary people operating within the larger contexts of state and national history to illuminate "vital themes and narratives"; and (3) help teachers and students meet the State of Illinois Learning Standards for the Social Sciences. The curriculum is divided into the following sections: "Abraham Lincoln, Attorney at Law"; "The Lincoln Legal Papers Curriculum"; "Key to Transcription Symbols"; "A History Rubric for Performance Assessment"; "Comprehensive Glossary of Terms"; and "Lesson Plans" ("Abraham Lincoln and the Rule of Law"; "Moving People through the Prairie State, 1820-1860"; "Illinois Agriculture and the Marketplace, 1830-1860"; "Material Culture on the Prairie"; "Social Role and Status: Marriage on the Illinois Frontier"; "Canals and Railroads Open Illinois"). (BT)
- Published
- 2001
37. Credentialing Adult Educators in Illinois: A White Paper for the Field.
- Author
-
Illinois Professional Development Partnership Center, Bloomington., Leinicke, Will, and Francisco, Chris
- Abstract
An advisory committee oversaw and guided an investigation of credentialing adult education instructors in Illinois. At its direction, a series of focus group inquiries were conducted into issues surrounding the development of a system of professional credentialing. Requirements varied widely in 13 states found to have some form of mandatory credentialing process; options were available in most states with credentialing programs. Essential elements were identified. Focus group discussions identified these three major challenges in instituting a credentialing system: ensuring that all adult education systems are learning organizations that engage in meaningful, transfer-centered professional development; providing consistent, accessible opportunities for professional growth; and providing the systems and resources for professional development that meet the needs of the field and produce the improvements in student performance that credentialing is intended to serve. Recommendations included BA/BS degree minimum; required new instructor orientation program; standard requirement of professional development activity; reward for participation in professional development; database for recording professional development compliance; and hold-harmless provision to retain current instructors. Next steps were public input and establishment of an advisory group to develop a plan for gradual institution of credentialing. (YLB)
- Published
- 2000
38. High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 (HSLS:09) Base-Year Field Test Report. Working Paper Series. NCES 2011-01
- Author
-
National Center for Education Statistics (ED), Ingels, Steven J., Herget, Deborah, Pratt, Daniel J., Dever, Jill, Copello, Elizabeth, and Leinwand, Steve
- Abstract
This report examines the results of the field test for the base year of the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 (HSLS:09). The general purposes of the field test were, in anticipation of the base-year full-scale effort, to test instruments, forms, and procedures; to experiment with different approaches to questionnaire content and survey methodology; and to evaluate the overall study design. The HSLS:09 field test faced a number of challenges. In varying degrees, these challenges will require further strategies and efforts be applied in the main study. Specific recommendations are summarized in this report, challenge by challenge. Appendices include: (1) HSLS:09 Sampling Plan for Main Study and Field Test; (2) HSLS:09 Field Test Codebook; (3) HSLS:09 Assessment Pilot Report; (4) HSLS:09 Technical Review Panel Participants and Meeting Minutes; (5) HSLS:09 Field Test Letters, Permission Forms, and Scripts; (6) HSLS:09 Mathematics Assessment Specifications:Final Working Version; (7) HSLS:09 Field Test Classical Item Statistics; (8) HSLS:09 Field Test Item Parameter Estimates; (9) HSLS:09 Student Instrument Scale Reliability Analyses; and (10) Questionnaires. (Contains 42 tables, 10 figures and 9 footnotes.)
- Published
- 2010
39. YOUmedia Chicago: Reimagining Learning, Literacies, and Libraries--A Snapshot Of Year 1. Working Paper
- Author
-
Consortium on Chicago School Research, Austin, Kimberly, Ehrlich, Stacy B., Puckett, Cassidy, and Singleton, Judi
- Abstract
With the rise in the number of types of digital media and the time youth spend on these platforms, researchers theorize that interacting with digital media can provide significant motivation for youth to participate, create, and become active learners. The Consortium on Chicago School Research, with funding from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, is in the process of studying the impact of a new youth-centered digital learning initiative at the Chicago Public Library. This space, called YOUmedia, is aimed at providing useful and engaging learning experiences for high school teens through access to new and traditional media. This snapshot report presents an overview of strengths and weaknesses of the program and details some of the changes that took place in year one. Appended are: (1) Creation of Partnerships; (2) Research Methods; and (3) Structured Activities at YOUmedia. (Contains 3 figures and 23 endnotes.)
- Published
- 2010
40. Local and Absentee Voter Registration Drives on a College Campus. CIRCLE Working Paper #66
- Author
-
CIRCLE (The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement), Castle, Kim, Levy, Janice, and Peshkin, Michael
- Abstract
More than 1.7 million students attend out-of-state colleges, and most are eligible to vote in either their home state or in their college state. Despite the potential impact of the "away" student vote on close elections, on-campus voter drives that promote absentee voting are rare. Here we report a detailed outcome study of an in-person campus voter drive conducted at Northwestern University in Fall 2008, in which students were offered a choice of college state (Illinois) or home state (absentee) registration and voting. Voting in swing states was actively encouraged for those who had that choice. Students from swing states selected absentee voting over Illinois voting by an 8:1 ratio. Students from other non-swing states showed a 2:1 ratio. Notably, both groups preferred absentee voting despite its greater complexity. We found that for students who successfully registered in Illinois, or who received an absentee ballot from another state, turnout was very high: over 80% of each group cast a ballot. Concerns about low absentee turnout due to the complexity of absentee voting were not justified. We report the rate of failures in absentee voting, and the causes of those failures. We also investigated whether any student abused the privilege of absentee voting by voting twice; we found than none had. (Contains 5 figures, 1 table and 32 footnotes.)
- Published
- 2009
41. The Perception of Math and Math Education in the Rural Midwest. Working Paper No. 37
- Author
-
Ohio Univ., Athens. Appalachian Collaborative Center for Learning, Assessment, and Instruction in Mathematics., Lucas, David M., and Fugitt, Jamie
- Abstract
Using the qualitative research method known as folknography, the authors led a research team to the heart of Illinois farm country to ask the question "What are the perceptions of the people of the Midwest concerning math and math education?" A review of the literature includes Canadian and Australian references on the topic, as well as information from the United States, and the targeted geography and population is described. Research followed the pattern of a similar study conducted in Appalachia in 2004. A preliminary survey was planned to gather benchmarking statistical data and to open respondents up to the possibilities of a folknographic interview. Folknographers entered the field in May 2006 to perform focused and intensive field research. Findings include: (1) belief that young people can not perform simple math; (2) perception that too much technology has a significant and negative impact on developing minds of students; (3) connection between acquiring math knowledge and achieving a dynamic career; (4) recollections of tyrannical or cruel math teachers; (5) desire for a school or school system that makes learning math an exciting and motivating experience. Folknographic narratives are included to illustrate each finding. Bibliography is included. Four appendixes conclude the document: (1) Perceptions of Math in the Mid-West Interview Questions: Adults (18-55); (2) Perceptions of Math in the Mid-West Interview Questions: Seniors (55-Over); (3) Perceptions of Math in the Mid-West Interview Questions: Youth (Ages 10-17); and (4) Perceptions of Math Survey Mid-West. (Contains 4 charts.)
- Published
- 2007
42. The Illinois White Paper: Improving the System for Protecting Human Subjects--Counteracting IRB 'Mission Creep'
- Author
-
Gunsalus, C. K., Bruner, Edward M., Burbules, Nicholas C., Dash, Leon, Finkin, Matthew, Goldberg, Joseph P., Greenough, William T., Miller, Gregory A., Pratt, Michael G., Iriye, Masumi, and Aronson, Deb
- Abstract
Our system of research self-regulation, designed to provide internal checks and balances for those who participate in research involving human subjects, is under considerable stress. Much of this crisis has been caused by what we call mission creep, in which the workload of IRBs has expanded beyond their ability to handle effectively. Mission creep is caused by rewarding wrong behaviors, such as focusing more on procedures and documentation than difficult ethical questions; unclear definitions, which lead to unclear responsibilities; efforts to comply with unwieldy federal requirements even when research is not federally funded; exaggerated precautions to protect against program shutdowns; and efforts to protect against lawsuits. We recommend collecting data. We also call for refinements to our regulatory system that will provide a set of regulations designed for non-biomedical research. This will enable IRBs to direct attention to the areas of greatest risk while intentionally scaling back oversight in areas of lesser risk. We recommend removing some kinds of activity from IRB review altogether. Our system, if not broken, is seriously straining at the seams. It is imperative that we have a respected and effective system in place to protect human research subjects, so that much-needed research into the causes and prevention of disease and other research expanding the boundaries of knowledge can proceed. We hope that this White Paper will further the discussion about what reasonable procedures can be instituted to help get IRBs back on track and do what they were originally meant to do--protect the rights and welfare of human subjects while allowing the research enterprise to progress and its benefits to society to accrue. (Contains 8 notes.)
- Published
- 2007
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. Community Attitudes about Economic Impacts of Colleges: A Case Study. AIR 1996 Annual Forum Paper.
- Author
-
Stout, Robert J.
- Abstract
This study examined attitudes of people about benefits of the economic impacts of two local colleges (Palmer College of Chiropractic and Scott Community College) in the metropolitan Quad Cities area of Rock Island County (Illinois) and Scott County (Iowa). The study compared impacts considered important by the community with those estimated by the majority of economic impact studies. Data were collected using focus group interviews of two sets of representatives of the local chambers of commerce, city and county governments, and the general public. Both groups felt that purchases from local businesses made by the colleges, their faculties, students and visitors were economic impacts of primary importance. Economic impacts of secondary importance included the colleges' ability to attract new businesses to the community, employee training provided by the community college, the inflation of prices for rental housing, the community college's role in retaining young people in the area, the costs of providing government services to the colleges and people affiliated with them, college-related taxes received by local governments, income from college-related jobs, foregone revenue due to the colleges' tax-exempt status, availability of college students as part-time employees for local businesses, and the colleges' nonmonetary investment benefits. It is concluded that knowledgable people have firm opinions about the economic contributions of colleges and universities, absent any economic impact studies or public relations efforts. (Contains 3 figures, 2 tables, and 10 references.) (CK)
- Published
- 1996
44. A Spatial Study of the Mobility of Hispanics in Illinois and the Implications for Educational Institutions. Working Paper No. 43.
- Author
-
Michigan State Univ., East Lansing. Julian Samora Research Inst., Fimmen, Carol, Witthuhn, Burton, Crump, Jeff, Brunn, Michael, Delaney-Barmann, Gloria, Riggins, Debi, Gutierrez, Maria, Schabilion, Dan, and Watters, Britta
- Abstract
This paper examines the growth and characteristics of the Hispanic population in Illinois and presents a case study of how a rural Illinois community and its schools are adapting to an influx of mostly Mexican immigrants. The first section discusses Mexican immigration to Illinois during the 1900s and provides racial/ethnic data on population growth in the Midwest and Illinois during the 1980s; educational attainment, 1980-95; income and poverty rates; and population change in metro and nonmetro Illinois, 1990-96. In "Anytown," a rapid influx of Hispanic workers for a new meatpacking plant has resulted in local conflicts over education, housing, and race. Hispanic students in the schools increased from less than 5 in 1993 to 350 in 1998. As school administrators became aware of the rising numbers, they responded by hiring translators, bilingual aides, and a bilingual coordinator; creating a prekindergarten class for Hispanic students; encouraging parent participation; and developing appropriate curricula and assessment methods. Teachers participated in workshops and conferences about cultural change and the classroom. As staff and administrators gained knowledge and understanding about the needs of language-minority students, they shifted toward a more student-centered philosophy and began developing bilingual and multicultural programs. Interviews with immigrants about experiences in the community, at work, and in school portray the racism encountered by culturally diverse newcomers, but also the efforts of teachers and community members to improve community relations and social integration. Contains 33 references. (SV)
- Published
- 1998
45. Inclusive Education: A Series of Issue Papers.
- Author
-
Illinois Coalition on School Inclusion, Springfield. and Illinois Coalition on School Inclusion, Springfield.
- Abstract
Thirteen brief papers address issues in inclusive education, with special emphasis on concerns and applications in Illinois. The following issues are discussed: (1) the relationship of the inclusive schools concept to that of providing a continuum of alternative placement options; (2) needed changes in current funding of special education to provide incentives (rather than disincentives) for school districts to include students with disabilities in regular classes and schools; (3) the practices of mainstreaming, integration, and "dumping" of students into regular classes without supports as opposed to "supportive" education in an inclusive education system; (4) needed restructuring in preservice training of teachers if inclusive education is to be fostered; (5) benefits of inclusive education for families; (6) the destructive effects of categorical labels; (7) the urgency of the removal of architectural barriers in public schools; (8) inservice and administrative supports needed by both regular and special education teachers for successful inclusion of students with disabilities; (9) specific ways administrators can support inclusion; (10) the role of the individualized education program in inclusive schooling; (11) a comparison of such terms as "least restrictive environment,""integration,""mainstreaming,""regular education initiative," and "inclusion"; (12) accountability issues at the state level; and (13) curriculum issues and inclusive education. Some papers contain references. (DB)
- Published
- 1994
46. 'This School Is My Sanctuary': The Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos Alternative High School. JSRI Working Paper No. 57
- Author
-
Michigan State University, Julian Samora Research Institute and Antrop-Gonzalez, Rene
- Abstract
Recent studies and personal narratives suggest a connection between the low academic achievement of Latina/o students in the United States to the lack of care they experience in schools. The author reports on a study he conducted of the Chicago-based Pedro Albizu Campos Alternative High School, focusing on the experiences of its students and teachers. He found that for a school to be effective for Latina/o students and other students of color, it must become a "sanctuary" in that the school fosters student-teacher caring relationships, provides a familial type environment to ensure that its students are not marginalized, provides a gang-free safe space, and affirms students' racial and ethnic identities. The purpose of this article, then, is threefold. First, the author briefly describes the high school. Second, he highlights students' voices and their descriptions of the "school as sanctuary" concept. Third, he describes the teachers' experiences pertaining to their difficult task of maintaining the high school as a sanctuary for its students.
- Published
- 2003
47. Citation Analysis of Dissertation, Thesis, and Research Paper References in Workforce Education and Development
- Author
-
Waugh, Keith C. and Ruppel, Margie
- Abstract
Citation analysis of 265 Workforce Education and Development (WED) dissertations, theses, and graduate research papers at Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIUC) was used to (1) determine core serials in the discipline, (2) provide Morris Library with a guide to serials acquisition and maintenance in the discipline, and (3) provide future WED students with a core list of WED journals. This study has applicability as a specific instance of applied citation analysis as well as for academic librarians faced with acquiring and maintaining serials in WED.
- Published
- 2004
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. Connecting the Parts: A Hispanic/Latino Reality for Achieving More Timely Degree Completion. JSRI Working Paper No. 34.
- Author
-
Michigan State Univ., East Lansing. Julian Samora Research Inst., Fimmen, Carol P., Witthuhn, Burton O., Riggins, Debi L., and Carson, Jamie
- Abstract
This paper examines some of the major problems and barriers faced by Hispanic/Latino youth who, despite high college enrollment rates, do not complete the four-year degree. An examination of five entering classes of Illinois college students found that only 30.2 percent of Hispanic students had completed their degrees at the end of four years, 33.8 percent were still enrolled in college, and 36 percent had dropped out. Factors identified as leading to lack of persistence included the overall cost of earning a degree, lack of academic preparation for college in junior and senior high school, poor articulation between community colleges and four-year institutions, limited access to resources, and family pressures. Several strategies are suggested for improving timely degree completion, including pre-college initiatives such as providing multicultural training for teaching faculty and support staff to dispel stereotypes, introducing concepts of academic achievement and excellence in elementary schools, emphasizing the concept of career opportunities available through post-secondary training, and involving members of the Hispanic community in school parent-teacher organizations. Post-secondary strategies suggested include developing bilingual brochures for high school counselors, parents, and advisors, providing information about fast-track programs, building schedules around student needs, initiating summer scholarship opportunities, and reevaluating general education requirements in colleges. (Contains 28 references.) (JM)
- Published
- 1997
49. Critical Issues in Library Management: Organizing for Leadership and Decision-Making. Papers from the Thirty-Fifth Allerton Institute. Occasional Papers, Nos. 198/199.
- Author
-
Illinois Univ., Urbana. Graduate School of Library and Information Science., Allen, Bryce L., Weech, Terry L., Allen, Bryce L., Weech, Terry L., and Illinois Univ., Urbana. Graduate School of Library and Information Science.
- Abstract
This is a collection of six papers on critical issues in library management presented at the annual Allerton Park Conference (35th, October 24-26, 1993) sponsored by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Graduate School of Library and Information Science. The first paper, "Learning about Leadership: What Works in Modern Organizations" (Barbara B. Moran) covers current concepts relevant to those seeking to provide leadership in libraries. The second paper, "The Leader as Decision-Maker: When Centralized Decisions Become Imperative" (Herbert S. White) discusses characteristics of the library director and the need for decision-making. The third paper, "Staff as Decision-Makers: The Merits of Decentralized Decision-Making" (Maurice P. Marchant) provides an alternate view of library personnel as important contributors to the decision- making process. The fourth paper, "Making Human Resource Decisions" (Richard E. Rubin) focuses on identifying information sources, as well as psychological and social factors, involved in human resource decisions. The fifth paper, "The Role of Leadership in Planning: A Frank and Candid Analysis of the Realities of Planning in the Public Sector" (Nancy Bolt) examines advantages and disadvantages of five planning processes. The sixth paper, "Remembrances of Things Past" (Tom Eadie) addresses the environment in which leadership and decision-making occurs. All papers contain references. (AEF)
- Published
- 1995
50. The Work Group on Early Childhood Briefing Paper Six: Funding Streams.
- Author
-
Day Care Action Council of Illinois, Chicago., Wroblewski, Roberta A., and Bassler, Elissa J.
- Abstract
Families undergo difficulties in trying to negotiate the labyrinth of early childhood services offered in Illinois. Because of the multiplicity of programs and scarce funding, many children and families do not receive the services they need. Coordination among programs and services is also limited. This paper offers background on how the foundations of Illinois' current system were laid, where Illinois is in the process of improving the coordination of services, and how a structure of services can be achieved which efficiently and equitably cares for and educates Illinois' youngest citizens. The following sections are included: (1) Background, including information on the 1989 Child Care Summit, along with the infusion of funds; (2) Current Status, including details on the mega-computer concept, Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R), and how to link care with education; (3) National Trends and Models, describing Illinois as a national leader in establishing a statewide system which links parents and providers; (4) Policy Implications; and (5) Alternatives for Action, includes a discussion of nine policy implications and future considerations. Appendices contain details of 30 early education funding streams, including Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) employment-related child care, Illinois Department of Public Aid (IDPA) programs, Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) programs, federal programs, and public/private programs. (BGC)
- Published
- 1994
Discovery Service for Jio Institute Digital Library
For full access to our library's resources, please sign in.