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"RJI Vision and Mission Reynolds Journalism Institute: Ideas. Experiments. Research. Solutions. 2009 The Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute (RJI) exists to develop and test ways to improve journalism through new technology and improved processes. In partnership with media organizations and nonprofits, RJI delivers technological and strategic innovations in journalism and advertising. RJI was launched in 2004 with an initial grant of $31 million from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation . In conjunction with the centennial celebration of the Missouri School of Journalism, it officially dedicated its world headquarters in September 2008. This 50,000 square-foot facility on the University of Missouri campus has state-of-the-art resources to test and demonstrate new technologies, experiment with convergence news production and delivery systems, and conduct real-time and virtual seminars and conferences. RJI's work crosses diverse specialties within journalism, including media convergence, editorial content and methods, the evolution of advertising, innovation in management and the impact of new technologies. It also includes varied fields on campus such as law, computer science, marketing, education and other disciplines. The vision The Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute is a world-class center for researching and testing new models of journalism in this era of technological advances. RJI makes the most of its location in a premier, hands-on journalism school at a research-extensive university and the collective creativity of visiting professionals and researchers. It assumes a leading position among centers devoted to journalism and media studies. Exterior view of the new RJI building on 9th Street in Columbia, MO. The mission The Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute engages media professionals, scholars and other citizens in programs aimed at improving the practice and understanding of journalism in democratic soc

"Doing What Works (DWW) is a website sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. The goal of DWW is to create an online library of resources that may help teachers, schools, districts, states and technical assistance providers implement research-based instructional practice. DWW is led by the Office of Planning, Evaluation & Policy Development (OPEPD) at the U.S. Department of Education. OPEPD relies on the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) at the U.S. Department of Education (and occasionally other entities that adhere to standards similar to those of IES) to evaluate and recommend practices that are supported by rigorous research. Much of the DWW content is based on information from IES' What Works Clearinghouse (WWC). The WWC evaluates research on practices and interventions to let the education community know what is likely to work. For each practice, it issues a guide and/or an intervention report that describes what the practice involves and what the research says. In addition, some DWW content is based on other information and materials from IES. Then, DWW provides examples of possible ways educators might apply those research findings, but these are not necessarily the only ways to carry out these teaching practices. It's important to note that the examples provided on DWW - including any products named in school materials or found on websites referenced on DWW - should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of Education of any products, programs, or curricula."

The Promising Practices Network (PPN) is a group of individuals and organizations who are dedicated to providing quality evidence-based information about what works to improve the lives of children, families, and communities. Who runs PPN? This project is operated by the RAND Corporation, the nation's original "think tank." RAND is a nonprofit research organization providing objective analysis and effective solutions that address challenges facing the public and private sectors around the world. Long recognized as one of the world's premier research organizations, RAND produces work of enduring value-research and analysis that is prized and respected for its quality, innovation, comprehensiveness, and objectivity. The wide dissemination of its findings is an equally important part of RAND's mission: research must be readily accessible to policymakers if it is to have impact on the public good. RAND brings to PPN extensive experience in the child policy arena, with more than 150 researchers and consultants working in areas such as child health, juvenile justice, education, child care, labor, and demographics. RAND's analysis has shaped public policy on a range of problems facing young people, including prenatal health, substance abuse, firearms violence, and early childhood interventions.

"The STEM Research and Modeling Network (SRMN) brings together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and funders who share the goal of using simulation modeling to strengthen student interest, participation and achievement in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The SRMN is hosted by the Business-Higher Education Forum and was founded in 2008 by BHEF, Raytheon Company, and The Ohio State University. The impetus of the SRMN was the development of the U.S. STEM Education Model, a simulation model developed by the Raytheon Company in order to examine ways to increase the number of students choosing to major and graduate in STEM disciplines. Using the model as a starting point, the SRMN provides an open innovation platform for developing a common set of STEM education and research priorities. By bringing together multiple stakeholders, the SRMN fosters dynamic collaboration around modeling and research to improve practice and policy."

"The mission of the FINRA Investor Education Foundation is to provide underserved Americans with the knowledge, skills and tools necessary for financial success throughout life. The FINRA Foundation envisions a society characterized by universal financial literacy. Established in 2003, the FINRA Foundation supports innovative research and educational projects aimed at segments of the investing public that could benefit from additional resources. These resources come in various forms. Our grants allow researchers to explore investor behavior and develop practical ways to avoid costly mistakes and prepare for the future. Grant funding also helps nonprofit organizations ensure that reliable financial and investor education is available to all who need it, when they need it-at the workplace, online 24/7, or wherever it's most effective. By sharing research and tools broadly, the FINRA Foundation adds to the collective wisdom about how best to help investors. Such information also shapes our directed programs. When we work on behalf of military service members and their families, with older Americans nearing or in retirement, or with students in all parts of the country, we have the opportunity to apply the latest research and adapt innovative strategies to their circumstances and needs. Our goal is to reach more and more investors each year, educate them on their own terms, and teach them how to protect themselves in a world that is complex and dynamic."

"About TeachTown TeachTown brings experts in autism research together with experts in enterprise software and professional video game design Our Story We've been hard at work for over 5 years developing a research-based program to make therapy more accessable and affordable. TeachTown is dedicated to using scientifically validated practices that incorporate the latest academic research in the development of our products. Our programs are based on existing interventions such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) that have been proven effective in the treatment of autism and our intervention tools and training programs are being validated through ongoing rigorous research studies funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Our team has a passion for helping families and professionals in the special-needs space - and many of our team members have personal experiences in which to draw from."

The PPN website is a unique resource that offers credible, research-based information on what works to improve the lives of children and families. Sometimes referred to as a "best practices" site or a "model program" site, PPN is both of those things and much more. In addition to providing information on Programs that Work, PPN also links to additional research information in all areas related to child well-being, including their physical and mental health, academic success, and economic security. These additional resources include Research in Brief, Resources and Tools and Expert Perspectives. To promote successful implementation of best practices and model programs, PPN also screens and posts evidence-based information on effective Service Delivery. In addition to the breadth of information PPN provides, visitors can rely on PPN to provide information that has met our high standards for scientific credibility, objectivity, and clarity. Learn about our process for reviewing information for inclusion on the site and how to submit a program for consideration.

"The Library Copyright Alliance (LCA) consists of three major library associations - the American Library Association, the Association of Research Libraries, and the Association of College and Research Libraries. These three associations collectively represent over 300,000 information professionals and thousands of libraries of all kinds throughout the United States and Canada. These three associations cooperate in the LCA to address copyright issues that affect libraries and their patrons. Former LCA members include the American Association of Law Libraries, the Medical Library Association, and the Special Libraries Association. The purpose of the LCA is to work toward a unified voice and common strategy for the library community in responding to and developing proposals to amend national and international copyright law and policy for the digital environment. The LCA's mission is to foster global access and fair use of information for creativity, research, and education. Copyright and related intellectual property laws have important and substantial effects on the nature and extent of information services libraries provide to their users. Intellectual property laws are currently undergoing major changes in response to the growth in the use of digital formats for works. The LCA is principally concerned that these changes do not harm, but rather enhance, the ability of libraries and information professionals to serve the needs of people to access, use, and preserve digital information. Our concern is heightened because of emerging technology applied to copyrighted works intended to prohibit access, use, and preservation of digital information."

"Who are we and what we do Futurelab is an independent not-for-profit organisation that is dedicated to transforming teaching and learning, making it more relevant and engaging to 21st century learners through the use of innovative practice and technology. We have a long track record of researching and demonstrating innovative uses of technology and aim to support systemic change in education - and are uniquely placed to bring together those with an interest in improving education from the policy, industry, research and practice communities to do this. Futurelab is close enough to government to be influential, but distant enough to have an independent viewpoint; credible and respected by academia, but with rigorous project management, support and delivery mechanisms that deliver to commercial timelines. Our integrity and commitment to positive change allow us access to education practitioners and learners and we, in turn, support them to adopt new teaching practices with a range of research-informed support and tools."

The National Center for Technology Innovation (NCTI) advances learning opportunities for individuals with disabilities by fostering technology innovation. Specifically, we help researchers, product developers, manufacturers and publishers to create and commercialize products of value to students with special needs. To achieve its goals NCTI offers services to: *Analyze needs, issues, trends, and promising technology innovations *Cultivate a collaborative network *Promote reliable research-based solutions *Facilitate successful commercialization approaches for the education market; Funded by the U.S. Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), NCTI works with a deep and supportive community of government, nonprofit, and private organizations. Our network of individuals and staff is dedicated not only to the development of powerful assistive technologies but to the commercial success that will make them viable on a large scale.

Founded in 1998, Quantum develops artificial intelligence (AI) tutoring, assessment and professional development software for K-12, higher education, distance learning and adult education. Our software is designed to be affordable and accessible to all students, including those with special needs. Quantum is the only AI company capable of integrating cutting-edge technology for textbook publishers, educational software providers or distance learning organizations. For the first time, the production costs and long lead times associated with content development and manual coding are eliminated. Not only do our partners experience tremendous production savings, they can offer uniquely-integrated AI learning products scientifically proven to increase test scores by as much as 50%. A "technology think tank", Quantum has leveraged over $8.5 million in federal research funding for new product development for its partners with support from the U.S. Department of Education, National Science Foundation and National Institutes of Health. As a result of its revolutionary work in AI technology, Quantum was awarded the national Tibbitts Award, the highest recognition given by the federal government for exceptional small business achievement in leading-edge research, technology innovation and economic impact.

"The New Media Consortium (NMC) is an international not-for-profit consortium of learning-focused organizations dedicated to the exploration and use of new media and new technologies. Its hundreds of member institutions constitute an elite list of the most highly regarded colleges and universities in the world, as well as leading museums, key research centers, and some of the world's most forward-thinking companies. For more than 15 years, the consortium and its members have dedicated themselves to exploring and developing potential applications of emerging technologies for learning, research, and creative inquiry. The consortium's Horizon Reports are regarded worldwide as the most timely and authoritative sources of information on new and emerging technologies available to education anywhere."

The Academic Research Group, Inc., founded in 1972, occupies offices at 144 Tamarack Circle, Skillman, New Jersey. In our more than 38 years of service to the needs of the academic, business and professional communities, we have written, researched and edited over 50,000 documents in all fields. Our clients come from all over the United States and the world

"The Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning is a public, not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening teacher development policy and practice. Our Web site features recent information on teacher development including research, state and national policy and legislative initiatives, and models for effective practice. We invite policy-makers, parents and teachers, researchers and journalists, and education and philanthropic organizations to use the resources of this site and join us in helping to ensure that every child learns from a fully qualified and effective teacher."

"About iNACOL: iNACOL, The International Association for K-12 Online Learning, is a non-profit organization that facilitates collaboration, advocacy, and research to enhance quality K-12 online teaching and learning. What we do: Facilitate the sharing, collection, evaluation, and/or dissemination of information resources and materials; Facilitate and disseminate research, and identify research needs; Advocacy and public policy that supports activities and legislation that removes barriers and supports effective online teaching and learning without respect to space and time; Develop and facilitate national K12 online learning standards; Create the voice of K12 within the larger education community with effective marketing, communications, and public relations activities; Assist and facilitate funding efforts for online K12 learning; Facilitate professional development for teachers and administrators; Identify and drive future directions in K-12 online education; Network and identify collaborative opportunities with other professional K-12 organizations; Drive educational initiatives that incorporate online learning and ways that transform positive learning outcomes for students; Mission: iNACOL strives to ensure all students have access to a world-class education and quality online learning opportunities that prepare them for a lifetime of success. Vision: Online learning is a powerful innovation that expands education opportunities. iNACOL supports access to high-quality online learning for all students. The International Association for K-12 Online Learning Believes: Online learning is a viable option that allows every learner to achieve a quality education; Models of reform in public and private education should incorporate online learning as a viable tool for change; Online learning is a viable path for educating children throughout their primary and secondary education years.

"Project SAILS ® began in 2001 with the goal of developing a standardized test of information literacy skills that would allow libraries to document skill levels for groups of students and to pinpoint areas for improvement. To make Project SAILS a success, we brought together a team of experts in librarianship, test design and measurement, data analysis, and programming. A three-year research and development phase involving more than 80 higher education institutions in the U.S. and Canada culminated in 2006 in the production version of the SAILS test. Looking for additional information about the project? Try one of the following links: Overview - Background information about Project SAILS Brochure - Introduction to Project SAILS and the test instrument in PDF format History - Important events in the development of SAILS Project SAILS Team - Brief biographies of the SAILS team members Acknowledgements - Recognition of contributors and participants Looking for information about the SAILS test? Go to About the Test. Project SAILS is headquartered at Kent State University in Kent, Ohio. The project was funded in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Studies and supported by the Association of Research Libraries."

"About powerspeaK¹² (Formerly Power-Glide) From the start, powerspeaK¹²'s mission has been to revolutionize the way children learn foreign language. We offer what no other language program does-an optimal mix of innovative, yet proven teaching methods that are integrated and woven together for an unrivaled learning experience. This successful blend of best practices evolved following decades of research by world language experts. While powerspeaK¹² courses are continuously enhanced to reflect the latest language conventions, the company's roots of creativity and innovation remain firmly planted throughout every powerspeaK¹² learning experience. This is the powerspeaK¹² difference - a difference we stand behind with our satisfaction guarantee. Our courses use a proven natural-language-learning method that utilizes immersive techniques to foster powerful and authentic language mastery. Unlike competitors' offerings, powerspeaK¹² courses were developed specifically to maximize learning in younger minds, with flexibility to address all learning styles and all age ranges, with 29 courses covering kindergarten through high school. These self-paced, engaging courses include age-appropriate content, games, and culturally relevant activities to help learners enjoy their studies and remain highly motivated. The all-new graphics, video, music, and games encourage multi-sensory learning and promote retention of material. We offer students, teachers, and schools the ability to meet their foreign language needs with a flexible and differentiated offering. The self-paced nature of the powerspeaK¹² courses makes it possible for parents who do not know the target language to help a child learn without any prior training. Schools can offer courses with or without teacher support, and can choose to utilize their own teachers or certified powerspeaK¹² teachers. With a unique methodology based on decades of research and proven results,

"Lumos Labs Lumos Labs is a cognitive neuroscience research and development company that builds software tools for improving brain health and performance. Lumosity is the first general brain fitness program from Lumos Labs. We specialize in creating innovative applications of the latest developments in brain science in order to help people lead better lives. Since its formation in the spring of 2005, Lumos Labs has been consistently focused on researching and developing the most effective cognitive training applications."

"Discovery Communications To Launch New Multimedia, Multi-Year Science Initiative, "Be The Future," Supporting Obama Administration STEM Priorities -- DirecTV Boosts Support of Science Literacy with Move of Science Channel to Total Choice, Offering Millions of Additional Subscribers Access to Quality Science Programming -- November 23, 2009 (Silver Spring, Md.) Underscoring its commitment to leading in science-related programming and education, and answering President Obama's call to action to encourage science literacy, Discovery Communications today announced a new multimedia, multi-year nationwide initiative called "Be The Future." Over the next five years, Discovery will launch a programming block, education curriculum and tools to inspire student learning and careers in the sciences and support the White House's efforts behind science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. "Lifting American students from the middle to the top of the pack in STEM achievement over the next decade will not be attained by government alone," said President Obama. "I applaud the substantial commitments made today by the leaders of companies, universities, foundations, non-profits and organizations representing millions of scientists, engineers and teachers from across the country." "The exploration of science, technology and the natural world is central to the mission and DNA of Discovery Communications and we are incredibly proud to put the full muscle of our content and resources behind this critical White House initiative," said John S. Hendricks, founder and chairman, Discovery Communications. "Through 'Be the Future' we will spark the innate curiosity in school-aged viewers and people of all ages, help drive interest and leadership in science-related careers and inspire a lifelong interest in how science shapes our everyday lives." A sweeping, multi-platform initiative, "Be the Future" will be built on two primary Discovery businesse

"PolicyLink is a national research and action institute advancing economic and social equity by Lifting Up What Works.® Founded in 1999, PolicyLink connects the work of people on the ground to the creation of sustainable communities of opportunity that allow everyone to participate and prosper. Such communities offer access to quality jobs, affordable housing, good schools, transportation, and the benefits of healthy food and physical activity. Guided by the belief that those closest to the nation's challenges are central to finding solutions, PolicyLink relies on the wisdom, voice, and experience of local residents and organizations. Lifting Up What Works is our way of focusing attention on how people are working successfully to use local, state, and federal policy to create conditions that benefit everyone, especially people in low-income communities and communities of color. We share our findings and analysis through our publications, website and online tools, convenings, national summits, and in briefings with national and local policymakers. Our work is grounded in the conviction that equity-just, fair, and green inclusion-must drive all policy decisions."