Education & Pedagogy

This article examines the debate over reform of doctoral education in biomedicine and concludes that the two solutions most advocated are flawed, and that the broad nonscientific education some would like to see in the graduate curriculum is most appropriate in the undergraduate years. More rigorous graduate education, not job-related training, is recommended at the doctoral level. (Author/MSE)

An Ohio State University doctoral program for special education leadership personnel emphasizing applied behavior analysis is described. The program features intensive formal coursework, special topic seminars, participation in three research studies prior to dissertation, supervised college teaching and advising experiences, and a 10-week summer internship. Key competency areas are discussed. (Author/PB)

This paper describes a research-based apprenticeship model preparing minority group students to enter doctoral programs with the goal of becoming faculty members in university special education departments. Seventeen recommendations for recruitment and training strategies are offered, such as providing enhanced financial aid and providing faculty and peer mentoring. (Author/PB)

This article describes how an early childhood education center in Peoria, Illinois, used physical educators as ongoing consultants/collaborators to develop a structured movement curriculum. Five interactive workshops for teachers provided training in movement principles and skills; individual consultations; and information on developmentally appropriate equipment, lesson planning, resources, and evaluation. (DB)

Reviews the state of geography education in South Africa from the elementary grades through the university system (including teacher education programs). Discusses the challenges facing the current system including a changing physical geography (elimination of the homelands) and a radically restructured educational system (inclusion of nonwhites). (MJP)

Advocates teaching science education from both Navajo and Western perspectives, giving Navajo students the ability to expand on the scientific method by constructing alternative explanatory hypotheses. Suggests that drawing from both cultural backgrounds stimulates development of the highest level of scientific thinking, which could lead to superior Navajo scientists. (LP)

An undergraduate education program was revised to keep curriculum content current and relevant in the area of preschool student evaluation. Traditional assessment and evaluation techniques were updated to include portfolio assessment instruction and practical experience at an on-site laboratory. The practicum study provided valuable experience for preservice teachers and information for educators of future teachers. (SD)

Pharmacy education at the University of Zimbabwe is somewhat like that in the United States; communication skill development and the pharmacist's role as drug expert are emphasized. Compounding is a major focus of study because bulk compounding is more economical for a developing country. The university's curriculum emphasizes rural practice, and early exposure may encourage students to pursue this. (Author/MSE)

Maintains that a more thorough understanding of the complex relationship between state government and local schools would greatly benefit arts educators. Presents an examination of the structure of this relationship in Massachusetts as a model. Examines government funding, staffing, delegation of powers, and various shared responsibilities. (MJP)

Argues that the centralized, bureaucratic model of education management has created more problems than solutions. Contrasts the current situation with an earlier model defined by local autonomy and personal commitment. Explores a broad set of issues and approaches designed to make arts education more autonomous and less divisive. (MJP)

Proposes an extension of the arts education/business community relationship moving beyond issues of patronage and support. Maintains that the complexity of the 21st-century economy and society will be well served by the flexibility and creativity manifested in arts education. Recommends national goals and standards for arts education. (MJP)

Responses of 600 higher education experts in seven Western European countries to a survey concerning government influence on higher education, currently and in the future, were analyzed to assess how different approaches to government role would affect higher education policy. It is concluded that different approaches would effect very different outcomes but also that no single solution will deliver effective results. (MSE)

A questionnaire was distributed to 456 post-secondary institutions offering preservice teacher preparation programs in 27 rural states. Of the 208 institutions responding, 21 offered specialized programs for teachers planning to work in rural areas. Of the suggested 26 preservice curriculum components, 14 were offered in over half the institutions surveyed. (JHZ)

This study compared vocational education programs in schools of education with those in schools of engineering or technology by considering (1) tenure track faculty; (2) financially supported graduate students; (3) faculty on 12-month contracts; (4) professional meetings attended; (5) reimbursement for professional development; (6) budget; (7) starting salary; (8) accreditation; and (9) faculty promotions. (JOW)

Some probable consequences of a current drive in France to expand higher education are explored. The drive is to enroll 90 percent of each age cohort in higher education and to have 80 percent of each cohort obtain undergraduate degrees. The change would drastically alter the traditional French university and its mission. (MSE)