Overcoming Inertia in School Reform How to Successfully Implement Change

Discover ways to refine or rescue educational reform efforts! As educators embark on the crucial mission of education reform, examining and learning from the shortcomings of past reform efforts can be the critical element that determines the success or failure of future efforts. This insightful guide provides a unique insidera?s look into the various causes for ineffectual efforts, shedding new light on the obstacles to avoid, the problems to be corrected, and the methods to embrace in order to overcome inertia and foster positive change. Using "inertia theory" as a unique model to uncover the factors that thwart well-intentioned reform measures, the book features specific steps and remedies that arm educators with the benefits of 20/20 hindsight, without needing to undergo difficult first-hand experiences. Highlights include: Detailed examples based on real-life reform efforts Straightforward analysis of problematic cases with specific caveats and suggestions for future improvement Reader-friendly discussions on evaluation techniques, policymaking, and management of projects "Conclusion" and "Discussion Topics" sections in each chapter that reinforce information outlined and provide opportunities for group study About the Author: R. Murray Thomas began his career in education in the 1940s as a high school teacher. Subsequently he became a university professor, teaching for 30 years at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he also served as dean of the Graduate School of Education for four years. In addition, he was an educational-development consultant to the Indonesian Ministry of Education, the American Samoa Department of Education, and the University of Malaysiaa?s Ford Foundation Development Grant.Thomas, R. Murray is the author of 'Overcoming Inertia in School Reform How to Successfully Implement Change' with ISBN 9780761945925 and ISBN 076194592X.