Observations on Emerging Relationships between Regional Educational Laboratories and State Departments of Education.

This study examines the emerging relationships between the Regional Educational Laboratories (RELs) created by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and various other educational agencies with which RELs work. A major purpose of the investigation was to identify those factors that encourage or obstruct the development of effective working relationships between RELs and other educational agencies. Information for the study was gathered through intensive discussions and interviews with principal persons associated with selected RELs and State Departments of Education. The interview schedule covered the spectrum of activities in certain areas of interest common to both RELs and State Departments of Education and allowed the research team to examine all stages of educational program development. In addition, available information in the files of the United States Office of Education was reviewed to trace the historical development of the REL program as it affected interagency relationships. A sample of the survey questionnaire is contained in the appendix. (Author/JG)