Reading Programs: Alternatives for Improvement

The purpose of this guide is to help school district committees composed of parents, community groups, teachers, administrators, and students develop a plan for improving reading instruction through an emphasis on individuals as learners. Included in the table of contents are: (1) "What Should We Do about Reading Instruction?" (2) "Why This Guide?" (3) "Study Your Reading Program." (4) "What Are Our Educational Goals?" (5) "What Are Our Goals for Individuals in Our Reading Program?" (6) "Who Should be Involved in Planning and Decision Making?" (7) "What Practices Provide Effective Implementation of Our Beliefs and Goals?" (8) "What Distinctive Features Will Our Program Have To Make It Local?" (9) "What Approaches to Reading Instruction Shall We Study?" (10) "What Kind of Learning Experiences Will Be Provided?" (11) "What Learning Spaces Are Needed?" (12) "What Learning Materials Are Needed?" (13) "How Can Teachers Help Each Other Grow?" (14) "How Can Parents Be Involved in Our Program?" (15) "How Will We Evaluate Our Reading Program?" Selected references for further study are also included. (WR)