Discusses accountability in U.S. K-12 public education today, describing three ideas of accountability: trust the experts (within the system reform), trust but verify (standards based reform), and trust the customers (free market reform). Examines political obstacles, mixed results of the various reform strategies, lessons learned about…

Points out that educational research has more critics than supporters. Until researchers convince lawmakers, educators, and taxpayers that research is useful, support for research will not be forthcoming. The constraints on and accomplishments of the Office of Educational Research and Improvement are discussed. (VM)

Suggests that (1) the federal role in educational change is marginal and educational policies of the Reagan administration are ineffectual; and (2) while the rhetoric of Federal education policy might change, the policy itself is still governed by incrementalism and is unlikely to change in the near future. (Author/MJL)

The 10 precepts offered in this paper in a spirit of tentativeness respond to the questions, "What ought society do when families crumble?" and "What ought government do when children are endangered?" The following ideas are discussed: (1) public policies and government programs should be differentiated according to the social capital accumulation…

The Reagan revolution is making profound changes in the basic assumptions that have undergirded American educational and social policy. The time has come to form a new national consensus whose unifying idea is educational quality. The declining quality of teachers poses the gravest threat to the quality of education. (MLW)

The changes in postsecondary education's relationship to government generally and to the federal government specifically are discussed. It is concluded that, as the array of issues, participants, and special interests mounts, the academy is less and less able to speak with a single voice in Washington. (MLW)

The liberal consensus that has shaped national education policy is seen as succumbing to dubious ideas and undesirable practices. Issues discussed include: educational equity, equality and quality; measures of educational achievement; accountability; "need" and ability; statism and monoply, pluralism and diversity; federal role; and…

Discusses educational reform, and argues that little had been accomplished in the past decade because of general complacency. Discusses lack of incentive to change. Proposes 10 essential elements of a reformed education system that parallel the "American 2000" strategy. Argues that the current political climate is ready for change. (JB)

In this second book of the Brookings Institution series of Studies in Higher Education Policy, the complex relationship between the federal government and the nation's higher education system is examined. After a survey of the history and background of Washington's involvement, an appraisal is made of the present condition of postsecondary…