The article discusses questions related to the application of educational research to state public policy, including the characteristics of educational policy which influence the use of research-based information; the most effective kinds of research information; and the best methods for communicating that information to policymakers. (JL)

In an attempt to lessen the tension which often exists between educators and policymakers, this article discusses each sector's world and then offers suggestions on how to construct bridges between these worlds so that mutual goals may be attained. (JL)

Based on interviews with 75 education policymakers and researchers in 15 states, this article examines constraints governing producers and consumers of education policy information at the state level. It reports on attempts of the State Education Policy Centers to unite the worlds of the policymaker and of the researcher. (JL)

This article uses a specific program evaluation (assessment of the Utah ladder reform report) to explore the role of evaluation information on the legislative decision-making process. Features of the report, responses to it, and its effects on Utah politics are described. Findings are broadly interpreted, and implications are discussed. (JL)

This article considers different ways in which research and policy are connected in an era of educational reform. The relationship between public policy, school reform, and educational research is examined from a political perspective. The article focuses on the uses of research in recent state-level reform activities in Texas. (JL)

The eight-phase process Ohio uses to address major educational policy questions is briefly described, and its strengths and weaknesses noted. General comments are made about state-level education policymaking. (JL)

Teachers' attitudes toward their work influence the way in which they implement educational policy. Literature on the subject is reviewed. The effect of past policies on teacher attitudes and how teachers might influence future policy decisions are discussed. (JL)

This article discusses educational equity in terms of access to learning, to resources, and to school, especially among students who are tracked in low ability groups. Given this conception of knowledge equity, equity may only be realized through the actions of local district and school staff. (JL)

Sex equity research, which compares educational treatment and outcomes of males and females, is defined, and the goals implicit to its conceptual framework discussed. The importance of this research and its implications for policymakers is discussed. Recommendations for researchers, educators, and policymakers are made. (JL)

Three tensions inherent to how we govern, operate, and study schools are discussed: teacher autonomy versus educational equity; the measurement of school effectiveness, and the issue of who participates in the educational process. Suggestions for how policymakers, researchers, and practicioners might resolve their differences are made. (JL)

Teacher educators are encouraged to respond to variations in the needs of individual teachers. To do this, educators need to devise preservice programs which involve development of teacher tasks for individual teachers. Teacher behaviors are observable indications of teachers' abilities to accomplish these tasks. (JN)

In an attempt to better organize supportive environments for teachers, teacher educators are examining specific environments which best influence teachers. Teacher behavior is produced as a result of the interactive effects of teacher characteristics, teacher educational environments, and the tasks in which teachers engage. (JN)

A study of a group of 21 teachers focused on the relationship between their psychological states and their utilization of professional growth activities and programs. The study's objective was to generate a practical way of applying Maslow's Theory of Personality to the study of staff development. (JN)

Future staff development designs must be consistent with the organizational and environmental realities teachers confront each day. Various existing staff development programs are described and suggestions are made for alternative solutions which incorporate organizational and environmental factors. (JN)

Today, teachers have numerous concerns which create visible stress. In addition, teachers are expected to adapt to the latest educational methods. Modifications in attitude and behavior are required even though a high level of self-esteem may be necessary to achieve these behavior changes. (JN)