Time for Reform

Abstract

Integral to school restructuring is the need to create time for school staff to participate in developing a vision, setting goals, formulating plans, training, and exchanging experiences. use of time is both the object of and the chief impediment to change. study surveyed educational literature, and business management journals, supplementing these with interviews and data from other Rand studies. A Timely Problem, the first of four sections, documents the substantial demands for time associated with restructuring. The Role of Time in Achieving Change examines now change requires: (1) removing some existing demands on time; (2) adequate investments of time and resources during implementation; and (3) sustained commitment. Successful implementation relies on scheduling time with appropriate lengths, frequency, and availability to key participants. Time-Creation Devices outlines six major approaches, including promoting time outside the classroom, refocusing existing commitments, rescheduling, prolonging the work year, and enhancing the efficiency of time use. Promoting Time for Reform makes specific policy recommendations for broad application throughout the educational system. (TEJ) *********************************************************************** * Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. * ***********************************************************************