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Classroom observation has changed dramatically in recent years. Trivial checklists have given way to research-based rubrics that describe important aspects of teaching and, for each aspect, explain the difference between more and less effective practice. Instead of asking if the lesson objective was posted, these new instruments typically ask to what extent the objective was clear to students, how well the teacher connected the objective to students' prior knowledge, and to what extent the teacher reinforced the objective throughout the lesson. This clarity around what to look for in a lesson has tremendous potential. It makes it possible for different observers to reach the same conclusions about how well a lesson demonstrates a set of practices that matter to student learning. This is essential for trust and aids decision-making. District leaders also need observers to produce trustworthy data to inform their systemwide investments in professional development. Perhaps less widely understood is that the same agreement about the indicators of effective teaching also enables observers to give more effective feedback. Fortunately, researchers and leading school systems have identified what observers need to know and be able to do--and the kinds of activities that can be used to develop, monitor, and reinforce those skills. This article discusses six skills every observer needs and how to build them: (1) Know the rubric; (2) Collect evidence; (3) Understand bias; (4) Recognize and sort evidence; (5) Use criteria for rating; and (6) Coach teachers.

As Australia debates whether to become a republic and have a head of state without executive power, it has two models to use as examples. The head of state can be chosen by the people or by the majority of parliament. The Irish Constitution is presented to show an example of how the powers of the head of state can be successfully limited through the Constitution., The 1998 Constitutional Convention in Old Parliament House, Canberra, is the formal opening of a process which could involve a referendum on whether Australia becomes a republic, and what powers [...]

Public journalism encourage readers to participate in the decision making process of their community through town-hall meetings and focus groups. However, the experience of some community reporters shows that they can stay in touch with community members without resorting to such means. Reporters need to seek out groups and organizations which help them in their local coverage. Longtime owners of retail businesses are the most knowledgeable people about a community. Community development corporations, historical societies, churches, and neighborhood newspapers help in public reportage.

The attempt to find the source of a 75-cent accounting discrepancy in the astronomy lab's computer at the University of California landed Cliff Stoll at the headquarters of Central Intelligence Agency in Langley, Va. Stall's account of his investigations can help journalists learn about the craft of investigative journalism. Stall's book which deals with an attempt to find an accounting error is a primer on the Internet. The book is informative for student journalists.

By looking at Marxist writer John Berger's trilogy "Into Their Labours," the author discusses utopianism and Berger's survivalist politics. Through writing and art, Berger's central concerns are aesthetics and political ideology. Berger discusses America's abuse of power and looks at the impact of neoliberal, global and nationalist utopianism on migrants and refugees in his essays "Hold Everything Dear." The author notes that Berger's trilogy presents a view of peasant life which provides aesthetic and spiritual ideas for physical and human environments.

Focuses on the Joint Framework Document endorsed by the Governments of Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Document's taking advantage of the emerging climate of peace towards a constitutional settlement in the disputer territory of Northern Ireland; Potential of the document to address the main issues of the conflict.