A cooperative project to improve the French second-language curriculum in Egyptian schools is described, including the challenges and principles involved in designing a 13-year elementary-secondary curriculum, pilot testing in 2 schools, teacher workshops, networking among participants, results, and lessons learned. (MSE)

This program explores the dangers of landmines as "weapons of mass destruction in slow motion." These hidden killers have been called the "perfect soldier"--never sleeping and never missing--yet kill thousands of people each year, many innocent civilians. The study guide offers questions to use before viewing the video,…

The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) commissioned a study to determine the baseline costs of operation for the network of libraries and agencies that provide braille, playback machine, and recorded book services to patrons of the free national program. A 15-year projection of costs was also prepared. The…

Developed as part of a document series in UNESCO's Science and Technology Education program, this volume reviews the major trends and cites the improvements in the natural science and mathematics education in the Soviet Union. Separate units are provided for the discipline areas of mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology. These sections…

This report describes a study visit to Czechoslovakia by the Director of Liaison and Training Services at the College of Librarianship, Wales, in order to investigate Czech training and education of library staff at all levels, including library assistants. It is noted that visit objectives included the investigation of practical training…

Compares the science and technology strategies and priorities of France, Germany, Japan, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Analyzes the similarities and differences, historical settings, research and development allocations, coordinating mechanisms, outputs, dissatisfactions, and recent changes. (TW)

Discusses some of the developmental efforts in environmental education in Australia. Cites studies which indicate that although the implementation of environmental education programs into Australian schools has increased, additional school-based planning is needed. Describes a new position paper which has been adopted as a model of curriculum…

Contains information on research and development (R&D) trends in the United States. Provides an overview of the total R&D effort. Includes graphs and charts on R&D funding by the federal government, particularly on chemistry, physical sciences, and engineering. Assesses R&D spending by industry. Shows where academic institutions get R&D funds. (TW)

The U.S. Secretary of Education describes the Department of Education's READ*WRITE*NOW! Initiative which aims to increase literacy rates by encouraging early and frequent reading as well as summer reading for children and youth, including those with learning disabilities. The need for a closer relationship between research and practice in reading…

Provides a state-by-state summary of the progress made in implementing national standards for arts curricula and assessment. Forty-four states either have adopted standards or are vigorously working on their implementation. This is an enormous improvement over last year's participation of only six states. (MJP)

Argues that standardized testing undermines creativity and individuality. Contends that standardized testing has more to do with control of education than excellence, and discusses the impact of the National Assessment of Educational Progress on educational control. Maintains that flexible, alternative testing can evaluate student performance…

Analyzes interviews with primary school practitioners about the implementation of the English/Welsh National Curriculum. Finds long-term trends are influenced by a conflict between shortage of time and demands of good practices. Discusses changes from child-focused to standard curriculum, from local to standard assessment, and similar issues. (CFR)

Maintains that the United States needs an environmentally literate citizenry capable of taking individual action and making informed public policy decisions. Asserts that environmental education is interdisciplinary and draws from the social studies, the sciences, language arts, and the fine arts. (CFR)

Maintains that the development of national standards provides resources for social studies curriculum development. Discusses the theme of continuity and change and asserts that elementary students can understand chronology. Provides a bibliographic essay and a list of nine recommended children's books and six teacher resources. (CFR)

Asserts that, given proper preparation at the elementary and middle school levels, high school students can learn to improvise stylistically appropriate harmony, rhythm, and melody. Provides suggestions for teaching choral improvisation. Maintains that improvisation success must build on what students always know--melody. (CFR)