As part of the Foreign Language Innovative Curriculum Study, the Associated Staff Training Program is involved in curriculum design for the training of school innovative agents. These agents, called Instructional Systems Consultants, are trained to guide continuing, systematic innovations in the school. This first in a series of three papers gives considerable attention to the concept of innovation (systematic, progressive, cumulative change) and its relation to school systems. Reasons for centering such change in the school are advanced. Highlights of the problem-solving method of innovation which emphasizes feedback and evaluation, are presented. For additional information, see FL 001 028 and FL 000 915. (AF)