Policymakers and educators are increasingly expressing concerns that the U.S. is lagging behind other countries in educating the next generation of mathematicians and scientists. In response, the federal government, private foundations, and many "institutions of higher education" (IHEs) are encouraging STEM (science, technology,…

A systematic analysis of the references to "scientifically based research" (SBR) and closely related terms, such as "peer-reviewed research" (PRR), in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) legislation, regulations, commentary, and case law reveal that SBR and its primary variants apply largely to state support…

Many organizations, both public and private, are involved in the current push for reform in science and mathematics education. This guide to some of the players in science and mathematics education is selective, focusing on key players at the national level. It is designed to be used by teachers and parents to orient themselves to the ongoing…

This booklet is designed to offer state and district policymakers a thoughtful set of questions to ask about school reform models and the organizations that develop them. The questions follow the criteria for schoolwide reform as spelled out in the federal legislation. Policymakers are encouraged to consider these questions as they work with…

This booklet offers state, district, and school leaders guidance both in understanding comprehensive school reform and in identifying effective comprehensive school-reform programs and the organizations that develop and help implement them. It focuses on the new federal program known as the Comprehensive School Reform Development (CSRD) Project, a…

The decline in academic achievements among public school students during the past two decades is discussed and several studies that support the evidence on the lack of educational excellence are cited. It is noted that the results of these studies offer a message about Catholic education, since many of the proposals offered to rectify this problem…

This paper discusses the advent of the technological revolution, the challenges presented to higher education and the Federal Government, and the profound changes in education that the computer will stimulate over the coming decades. Higher education's contribution would include research that assists business and industry to advance the…

The future world of students will present challenges for the education community in determining how to educate and properly prepare them for their place in the new information based society. In order to meet the challenges, computers and other technological innovations will have to be used to enhance learning experiences for students, increase…

Outlines how the "cult of efficiency" and the "cult of deficiency" emphasize weakness and have affected American education. Points out that a new "cult of proficiency" emphasizing strengths, not weaknesses, is needed. (MD)

Presents a series of teaching suggestions and ideas based on the National Standards for Arts Education. Focuses on musical composition for elementary and secondary students. Includes a teaching example illustrating how the National Standards can be put into practice. (CFR)

A review of the conceptual and operational roots of student financial aid gives a brief history of federal programs, provides a statistical profile of federal postsecondary aid since 1970, examines the complexities of need analysis and delivery systems, and outlines policy goals for the 1990s. (MSE)

The information in this volume was compiled in order to provide a guide to the technology-in-education programs of the federal government. The goal of this book is to provide important information about technological resources that will assist teachers, administrators, students, parents and others in achieving the goal of the United States being…

The tenth and final volume of this study provides a short, crisp summary of its findings for educators at all levels. Important considerations are suggested for federal and state policymakers as they support schools in their change efforts, and for school people who are committed to making effective and long-lasting improvements in their…

Describes the national geography standards, "Geography for Life," part of the Goals 2000 program. Asserts that the standards define the most important elements of geography content and instruction. Discusses innovative features of the standards and presents suggestions for using them. (CFR)

A review of the history of regulation in federal student financial aid programs indicates dramatic change and growth in the last three decades. Regulations of particular importance to aid administrators are highlighted, and two conclusions about recurring concern for the deservedness of aid recipients are drawn. (Author/MSE)