Education & Pedagogy

Despite their eroding fiscal positions, state governments are responsible for establishing budget policy for both public elementary/secondary and higher education. As a Utah case study shows, the current political structure creates pressures for both competition and cooperation in optimizing scarce resources. This study advocates limited cooperation as a politically justified alternative. Includes 34 references. (MLH)

Used meta-analysis to review 33 evaluations of school-based alcohol and drug education programs. Found typical substance abuse education had most positive effects on knowledge and attitudes, but was unsuccessful in changing drug-using behaviors of students. Attitudinal effects were significantly higher when peers were instructional leaders and when group discussion was part of instructional mode. (Author/NB)

Describes school activities of two seven-year-old children (one rural, one urban) with low incidence disabilities. Finds similarities and differences in context and content of school activities, amount of engaged time, student heterogeneity, and in teacher training. Recommends research toward improving special education for low incidence disabled students. (TES)

Seeks to define the term social studies through a discussion of the historical origin of the word. Concludes that the prevailing definitional consensus on social studies as citizenship education is rarely translated into actual classroom practice. Urges an emphasis upon rational inquiry rather than reification of the status quo. (KO)

Describes a program that trained 65 experienced bilingual educators to write and adapt educational computer software in their primary languages, to revise curricula accordingly, and to write grants to bring hardware and software into their classrooms. Discusses participant selection, program curriculum, community involvement, and interdepartmental collaboration. Contains 18 references. (SV)

Summarizes the current status of the use of microcomputers in elementary and secondary schools in the Federal Republic of Germany. Curriculum development and research about computer science are described, the roles of technological advancement and education in economic advancement are discussed, and comparisons are made with other industrialized countries. (28 references) (LRW)

Describes results of a literature review and telephone survey of the 50 United States to identify research and evaluation studies of distance education programs for elementary and secondary school children. Highlights include types of technology; focus of instruction; effectiveness of distance education; and evaluation criteria. (25 references) (Author/LRW)

This article is a case study of two distance education graduate courses offered by means of computer-mediated communications at The Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. Topics discussed include adult learning; student interactions; teacher's roles; student achievement; student attitudes; small groups versus learning partners; and suggestions for future research. (21 references) (LRW)

The history of women's participation in French higher education, patterns of educational choices and qualifications, and effects on qualified women's entry into employment are examined. It is concluded that while women have better training for higher-level jobs, they also face greater competition with other women and some discrimination. (MSE)

Data on post-16 transitions from the 1985 Scottish Young Peoples Survey and from the England and Wales Youth Cohort Study reveal several differences reflecting institutional differences between the two systems. Data also reveal sociological similarities. Those who develop policy initiatives at a British level must respect both similarities and differences. (JHZ)

Provides an overview of the current status and future directions of education for limited English proficient (LEP) elementary and secondary students in the United States, covering the estimated number of LEP students and teachers, government and legislative roles, school district services, teacher training programs, research, and program development. (Author/CB)

The paper identifies factors influencing the direction of Early Childhood Special Education by the year 2000. Predictions are offered about least restrictive environment options, transdisciplinary team models, empirical bases for family involvement, technology, number of children needing services, availability of resources, and the relationship of early childhood special education to regular education. (Author/DB)

This study investigated relationships among teacher assignment (general education and special education), primary organizational identification (local school and district level department), and perceived organizational conflict, as reported by 454 general and special education senior-high teachers. No differences were found between the two groups on the identification or perceived conflict variables. (Author/JDD)

Two major reports on the financing of special education and the use of Public Law 94-142 discretionary and set-aside funds are analyzed, focusing on the funds' impact on state and local education agencies. Key factors in utilization of these monies are political realities and the legal need for flexibility. (Author/JDD)

The article examines how theoretical perspectives or model-views affect the delivery of special education services and influence the course of applied research with handicapped individuals. Underlying principles of major model orientations are discussed. Adoption of a model orientation that can document efficacy of interventions and ensure equal educational opportunity is advocated. (JW)