ERIC Number: EJ842532
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0014-4029
EISSN: N/A
Collaborative Problem Solving Effectively Implemented, But Not Sustained: A Case for Aligning the Sun, the Moon, and the Stars
Santangelo, Tanya
Exceptional Children, v75 n2 p185-209 Win 2009
This 2-year qualitative case study examined factors influencing implementation and sustainability of collaborative problem-solving programs. One selected elementary school served as the focus site. Using a participant-observer field-based approach, data were collected via observations, interviews, mute evidence, and field notes. During Year 1 of the study, implementation integrity was high, participants' perceptions of the process were positive, professional collaboration was enhanced, students' academic and behavioral concerns were effectively addressed, and special education rates were reduced. However, successful implementation was not sustained during Year 2 following a dramatic reduction in support from the school district. Analysis revealed district-level decisions exert a significant and cascading effect on procedures, perceptions, and ultimately student outcomes. Within that context, implications for practice are offered. (Contains 1 table.)
Descriptors: Educational Environment, Integrity, Problem Solving, Cooperative Learning, Elementary School Students, Observation, Interviews, Program Implementation, Special Needs Students, School Districts, Teamwork, Teachers, Principals, School Personnel, Elementary Schools, Student Needs, Intervention, Special Education, Regular and Special Education Relationship
Council for Exceptional Children. 1110 North Glebe Road Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22201. Tel: 888-232-7733; Fax: 703-264-9494; e-mail: cecpubs@cec.sped.org; Web site: http://www.cec.sped.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Publications1
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A