This guidance is intended for the planning stage of trials -- in particular, trials for which the primary outcome measure being considered is attainment at GCSE (and in particular, GCSE English Language and Mathematics). However, it is generalisable to any other graded qualification or assessment used as an outcome measure, i.e. A-levels. It is…

The Common Core State Standards Initiative (CCSSI) is a bit like the underdog candidate who wins the election when few think it possible. "Now what?" is the question facing the surprised victor. With an initial agreement for the Common Core State Standards to be developed, and visible progress toward their development and promulgation, what will…

Issues associated with minimum competency testing are discussed: the national, state, and local context for MCT program development; MCT's potential impact; the use and development of MCT programs; and reactions to the testing programs. Presently, the federal role is described as limited to providing information, research support, and technical…

Several aspects of national competency tests are discussed: two conceptualizations; arguments pro and con; the federal perspective; a distillation of support and opposition to arguments judged unique to national competency tests; and a hypothetical procedure for implementation. (MH)

This report provides an overview of the competency-based education movement, discusses school administrators' concerns and attitudes concerning the competency movement, describes the experience of various school districts and states with minimum competency requirements, and presents practical guidelines for implementing minimum competency…

This collection of 12 articles, prepared by the editors of the weekly newsletter "Education USA," attempts to highlight significant new developments that have surfaced as major education issues. The aim of the collection is to provide "an authoritative, up-to-date report on what's new in education in one book." The articles…

This report summarizes the findings and recommendations of 22 internal, external, or combined studies written by committees, consultants, or staff. A listing is included of more than 70 other plans, reports, requests, or other efforts to identify needs of the New Orleans Public Schools. A synthesis of findings or recommendations from these sources…