This article, written as a memo to the author's friend in response to an earlier conversation, compares the American education system with that of Japan. First, the author examines cultural differences between Japan and America as a lens through which to look at these two countries. Then, Japanese and American schooling are compared in terms of…

Offers a synthesis of the arguments for and against value-added testing (i.e., assessing how much students learn or improve or grow in school or college). Looks at alternative methods of measuring the value added in terms of the relationship between entry and exit skills. (DMM)

Examines the literature on current trends in student development, focusing on the framework within which student personnel professionals operate; service to new groups of community college students; the effects of failing public financial support and increased reliance on industrial support; and the growing emphasis on assessment and…