Challenges the assumption that high level, educational research is appropriate in developing countries. Using Zaire as an example, the author argues that international funding agencies' institutional needs tend to make them set up western-style research organizations which are incompatible with the needs of the recipient country. (AM)

Compares the different conditions and effects of locally and overseas funded educational research projects within developing countries. The author recommends that overseas funding donors become more sensitive to local expectations, complement local funding sources rather than competing with them, and encourage long-term research with low-level…

Various indices of public support for the schools--school finance voting patterns, public opinion polls, and court litigation--are analyzed to document current trends. Two possible scenarios are forecast for the future, based on socioeconomic and demographic patterns. The need for future government support is stressed. (PP)