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Teacher Observation Project

This website contains a set of tools to be used by instructional leaders - regional specialists, program directors, lead teachers - for a process of teacher observation and feedback for professional development. The process is designed to help the observer better understand the teacher's classroom practice and to give the teacher objective input and the opportunity to examine and improve particular aspects of her/his practice.

A Facilitator's Guide is a resource for programs and organizations interested in using inquiry groups and research methods in their program-improvement efforts. In practitioner research staff development, participants systematically conduct inquiries about their work and their students' learning, reflect on their findings, and make informed decisions about implementing changes in their practice and improving their program. This guide provides the basic materials and information to implement practitioner research as staff development.

Provides an overview of the practitioner research process and discusses the strategies and methods used to conduct a qualitative inquiry. The Guide includes case studies, a sample outline for writing a research report, a list of recommended reading, and information about using the ERIC system.

The Learning Disabilities Adaptations and Accommodations Guide helps adult educators to understand and creatively use appropriate adaptations and accommodations to assist adults with learning disabilities in working toward their classroom and real-life goals. This collection of materials includes a framework for planning accommodations and suggests inexpensive devices, tools, and strategies for teaching, learning, and daily living.

Chronicles the experiences of Virginia literacy program participants taking part in a special project to improve services for adults with learning disabilities. Read the students' and tutors' own words, describing their successful learning experiences, challenges, and frustrations. Learn about the strategies and materials they recommend.

Practitioners write about their research processes and findings as a result of this two-year project.

Outreach newsletter

Outreach a monthly electronic news memo designed for program managers, executive directors, and other administrative staff of adult basic education and literacy programs, was published from 2003 to 2006. Topics of interest include grant writing, fund development, program management, reading research, facts and statistics, distance learning options, and more.

Update and Update on LD

Each monthly issue contains news from the field and links to great resources.