A Problem-Solving Model for Improving Student Achievement

weblink:  http://www.nasponline.org/resources/principals/nassp_probsolve.aspx

A Problem-Solving Model for Improving Student Achievement: Problem solving is an alternative to assessments and diagnostic categories as a means to identify students who need special services.

This article states: Problem-solving models have been implemented in many versions at local and state levels to reflect the unique features and needs of individual schools. However, all problem-solving models share the following components:

  • Screening and assessment that is focused on student skills rather than classification
  • Measuring response to instruction rather than relying on norm-referenced comparisons
  • Using evidence-based strategies within general education classrooms
  • Developing a collaborative partnership among general and special educators for consultation and team decision making.

Andrea Canter, in Principal Leadership Magazine, Vol. 5, Number 4, December 2004

This article was adapted from a handout published in Helping Children at Home and School II: Handouts for Families and Educators (NASP, 2004). “Counseling 101” articles and related HCHS II handouts can be downloaded fromwww.nasponline.org/resources/principals/index.aspx.