Chaparro includes lots of hands-on experiences. I sit them down at computers and show them how to work comfortably with the software they have, and how to evaluate new software. She suggests ways for teachers to integrate software into their lesson plans, and encourages them to make the changes soon, while still enthusiastic. After the workshop is over, Chaparro periodically calls to ask how the teachers are doing with their new material. Diaz watches teachers become introspective as discussions bring out 'taboo' topics and express their private feelings about their bilingual students.
Single workshops can last from a couple of hours to a full day.
A series of sessions may span several months. School districts in Iowa, for example, recently presented MRC a wish list of 30 workshops for the 1993-94 school year. Through such extended workshops, Jones watches teachers apply what they've learned. In return, they let him know what has worked for them and what has not. Sargeant says measuring the results of her work can be difficult.