Comprehensive School Reform Models

AIM at Middle-Grades Results • Making Middle Grades Work
Making Schools Work • Middle Start
Success for All Middle School Program
Talent Development Middle School Model • Turning Points

Background

History
Different Ways of Knowing is an adaptable, research-based, field-validated school improvement partner for elementary, middle, and K-12 schools, including charter schools. Its strategies and tools improve student acheivement by dramatically improving classroom practices. An initiative of the Galef Institute in Los Angeles, California, and developed under the direction of Linda Johannesen, Different Ways of Knowing has improved student learning in more than 600 schools since 1989.

Different Ways of Knowing is a comprehensive approach to improving students' school performance from Kindergarten through eighth grade. Based on research and expert practice, Different Ways of Knowing helps teachers facilitate standards-driven, student-centered learning in their classrooms, enables administrators to lead the school community in a process of continuous, data-driven school improvement, and supports district officials in providing the resources and professional development opportunities schools need to create effective, engaging learning environments. Different Ways of Knowing is a New American Schools school improvement model.

Number of Schools Served
More than 600 elementary and middle schools, including charter schools, have implemented Different Ways of Knowing. Currently, 15 middle schools in New York, Kentucky, Texas, and California are implementing the pilot model that is being field tested through support from the US Department of Education (OERI). Additional middle schools in Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Texas, and Kentucky are implementing key aspects of the model. Ten additional middle schools will implement the pilot model beginning in the 2003-2004 school year as part of the national field test. Other middle schools in Louisiana, California and elsewhere will undertake preliminary professional development activities in anticipation of full implementation in the following school year.

>> Design Features | >> Research Findings

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View other Comprehensive School Reform Models

AIM at Middle-Grades Results • Making Middle Grades Work
Making Schools Work • Middle Start
Success for All Middle School Program
Talent Development Middle School Model • Turning Points