The U.S. Department of Education's study of 40 facilities that are participating in the N or D program identified which parts of the program are most effective. The study, which was conducted from 1987 to 1989, found that the quality of instruction in correctional institutions varies widely, largely due to teacher beliefs about students' capabilities and their own ability to improve students' literacy skills. About half the teachers of N or D students believed their instructional techniques are the key to learning. Key practices that promote accelerated learning among juvenile offenders include a curriculum that is driven by students' varied and changing needs, a focus on comprehension and problemsolving that is relevant to life outside the institution, and the use of a variety of instructional methods that enhance the academic interest of students who have experienced repeated school failure. Mathematics should be presented as problemsolving, and reading instruction should relate to students' experiences. Staff should expect high achievement from students and make the expectations known to the students. Materials based on "life skills" relevant to noninstitutional living should be used throughout the curriculum in all vocational, academic, and counseling programs. One recommendation from the study is that Federal and State program managers should emphasize disseminating information, providing technical assistance, and encouraging staff development of administrators and teachers. A second recommendation is that program staff receive up-to-date, accurate information on student selection and evaluation requirements and avoid exclusive reliance on test scores. 3 references