ASCD encourages educators to compete in its annual Outstanding Dissertation Awards program. The contest honors dissertations that "significantly advance the knowledge and understanding of educational theories, concepts, and practices." The competition is open to anyone whose dissertation was completed and approved during the academic year of Sept. 1, 1992, to Aug. 31, 1993, from an institution of higher education that is sanctioned by a regional accrediting agency. A panel of professors and practitioners will judge the entries on significance of topic, conceptual framework, research design, potential significance and outcome, and quality of writing. The judges will choose one winner in each of three categories: curriculum, instruction, and supervision.
The winners will present their papers during a special session at ASCD's Annual Conference in Chicago, Ill., March 19–22, 1994. They will each receive a plaque and a two-year comprehensive membership in ASCD, and they will be recognized at a luncheon in their honor. For a copy of the complete competition guidelines, contact Outstanding Dissertation Awards, ASCD, 1250 N. Pitt St., Alexandria, VA 22314-1453. Completed nomination packages must be postmarked by Nov. 12, 1993.