A recent study in the USA documented the existence and growth of "excellence gaps" among students. These gaps are similar to the minimum competency achievement gaps that proliferate in policy discussions in many Western countries, but excellence gaps focus on the highest level of achievement rather than minimum competency. We extend this…

In 23 states, members of the high school class of 2008 were required to pass a state high school exit examination (HSEE) to earn regular high school diplomas. Proponents of these policies claim that they improve student academic achievement, although critics argue that they reduce the quality of instruction without raising academic achievement.…

Indicates that the movement toward minimal competency testing is widespread and growing but that its educational and social implications have yet to be evaluated. (TJ)

Describes trends in the minimal competency movement in Florida and several other states and speculates about future trends in minimum-competency testing. (DD)

The author addresses the concern that many learning handicapped students are being denied diplomas because of minimum competency testing (MCT). The beginnings of the MCT trend are traced, faults with MCT are pointed out, and legal aspects of MCT are considered. (SW)

The author presents an overview of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) movement, including the impetus for it and its advantages and disadvantages. (SJL)

Ways of attempting to ensure competence in teaching reading have changed dramatically over the past 60 years. By comparing tests designed to be administered to 1923 and 1983 teacher candidates, this article illustrates the ways in which they are qualitatively different and considers the implications of those differences. (MT)

Traces the history of minimum competency testing in the United States from 1890 to the present. (FL)

Discussion of the effect of minimum competency tests for graduation notes both positive (such as greater access to the general curriculum) and negative (such as increased referrals to special education) to improve a school's overall scores. Continually changing special education procedures are seen, however, to have led to a decline in teachers…

This article attempts to provide British educators, who face a similar trend, with a synthesis of some major developments in the Accountability in Education movement in the United States. (Author/SJL)

The history of teacher certification is summarized. Deregulation of teacher certification has brought many changes, making it difficult to identify who or what agency is in charge of selecting and preparing new recruits for teaching. Different ways of certifying teachers are discussed. (MT)

Reports on the national demand for higher educational standards evident in the state legislation of the past three or four years that has mandated minimum competency testing programs. States that have adopted various kinds of such legislation are listed. (JD)

Minimum competencies are being imposed on the schools by state legislators frustrated by declining academic achievement. Teachers must not allow this movement to engender a "teaching for the test" mentality. They must work for a balanced curriculum, good remedial programs, and competency tests which provide real feedback for teaching. (SJL)

Summarizes trends in competency testing for teachers in the United States. Points out the strong public support for this testing and the problems with predicting teaching success from test results. Concludes that teacher competency testing in Canada, currently less prevalent than in the United States, will increase dramatically. (JHZ)

The Italian educational system's experiences with national examinations might help United States educators understand the impact of state tests on students, schools, and education in general. (JT)