Reports are given on the use of computers in elementary and secondary schools in five states. An analysis of the reports discusses various educational trends and implications evolving from computer use, including misapplied technology and the proper amount of learning and teaching via computers. (CJ)

Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCOR), a National Science Foundation-funded program is in the third year of its five-year grants to scientists in five states. Program objectives, financial support (including cost-sharing by states), state programs resulting from EPSCOR, and EPSCOR achievements are discussed. (JN)

Outlines the objectives, process, and tasks of New York State's school-based comprehensive planning system, implemented to meet accountability demands and budgetary cutbacks. Process diagrams and sample forms are included. (SJL)

The major issue of educational quality is linked to the potential of national and state assessment programs. It is suggested that changes in assessment design, analysis, and reporting can significantly contribute to improvement in the policy development process. The California Assessment Program illustrates how state assessment information may be…

Describes the rationale, organization, and activities of a comprehensive system for professional development in New York state, the Clearinghouse of Resources for Educators of Adults. (SK)

Cost effectiveness of the program cannot be accurately determined. Assessment is based on actual self-care rather than proving poverty. A flexible approach is taken toward disability level and family support. States should keep community care flexible and available at acceptable cost. (JAC)

Kentucky is reintroducing the norm-referenced, multiple-choice test. Students will be given both performance and multiple-choice tests, beginning in spring 1997. Kean believes this multiple-measures approach is a common-sense way to provide the measurement-driven accountability that most states require. Neill deplores multiple-choice testing and…

Describes seven features of effective summer schools from recent Southern Regional Education Board report with examples of state legislation in support of each of these features. For example, summer school should be an integral part of a year-round program of extra time and extra help. Includes description of relevant Kentucky, California,…

Virginia's Public Education Network (PEN) was one of the first statewide public school Internet systems. PEN began as a regional pilot that led to the establishment of a regional prototype, Teacher-LINK. Teacher-LINK in turn became the basis for the statewide K-12 Internet system. Topics include PEN's educational content, Internet services, and…

Logging is now the most dangerous U.S. occupation. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) developed specialized safety training for the logging industry but has been challenged to reach small operators. An OSHA-approved state program in Minnesota provides annual safety seminars to about two-thirds of the state's full-time…

A review of the status and activities of foreign language instruction in Florida elementary schools discusses languages taught (primarily Spanish); state funding and school district programs; teacher certification; and preservice teacher education and methods courses. (CB)

Describes the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching, a state-supported program designed to reward and renew intellectually exemplary public school teachers in North Carolina (offering in-residence learning opportunities for teachers at all grade levels). Recommendations are provided for states or districts considering establishing…

Provides an overview of Australia's early childhood education and care in the late 1980s. Topics include provision of services; state government responsibilities; caregiver pay, status, and training; and future trends and issues. (RJC)

Describes Tennessee's response to the educational reform movement. Discusses the Comprehensive Education Reform Act of 1984 (CERA) which instituted Tennessee's Career Ladder Program. Provides an evaluation, and identifies strengths and weaknesses of the the Tennessee Arts Academy which grew out of CERA. Concludes that the Tennessee Arts Academy is…

Reviews the adoption of a three-part program for statewide library automation and the appointment of planning committees by the Board of Regents of the New York State Department of Education. The discussion addresses the recommendations of the committees covering general issues, databases, linking, training and consulting, and operational…