Meaning and knowledge are separate constructs. Meaning is an idiosyncratic, cognitive construct; knowledge is a social construct built upon various shared meanings that are reconstructed and judged to be accurate or probable by a particular community. Language is the medium through which both meaning and knowledge are formed. Instructors can…

A study was conducted to compare the locus of control of developmental studies, graduate, and undergraduate students enrolled in a four-year institution in the University System of Georgia. The study utilized Rotter's Internal-External locus of control scale which differentiates individuals on the basis of the person's perceptions that outcomes in…

This paper describes one academic's experiences in utilizing a database management system, dBase II, with an Apple IIe microcomputer for record keeping and reporting. Initial problems created by processing data by hand or by a central computer system are described, and the selection process for a microcomputer purchase and software package (dBase…

Responds to criticisms commonly leveled against community colleges with respect to their provision of developmental education. Looks at issues related to program costs, departmental responsibility, articulation with secondary schools, teacher preparation, placement and diagnostic test validity. (DMM)

Discusses the role of the developmental educator in promoting successful learning in mathematics. Sees the promotion of positive math attitudes as the starting point for developmental math instruction. Considers various learning models and process-oriented methods for teaching mathematical concepts and skills. (DMM)

The effectiveness of one remedial mathematics technique is examined. Results indicated that students who passed remedial math and then took college algebra had significantly higher final algebra grades than did undergraduates who failed remedial math. (MLW)

Considers the characteristics of developmental educators, trends and pressures for change in the field, and ways of responding to changes and possible futures. Suggests that developmental educators build on their flexibility and adaptability, work together, maintain a student orientation, and strive toward professionalism. (DMM)

Self- and teacher expectancy effects on the academic achievement of black college freshmen in an academic reinforcement program were investigated. Results indicated more significant self-expectancy effects than teacher expectancy effects on achievement. (Author/DWH)

Presents research findings on the character and effectiveness of developmental studies programs. Points out 11 elements common to those developmental programs reporting the most complete and promising retention data. (DMM)

The National Association for Developmental Education (NADE) has developed a strategic plan for guiding its members into the next century. The plan takes into account political, institutional, economic, and instructional trends predicted to have an effect on the course of developmental education. Developmental educators also must plan for the…

This report presents a summary of responses of developmental English students who participated in a telephone survey conducted in early 2001. The respondents had enrolled in a developmental English course in the fall 2000 semester and did not return to Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) for the following spring semester. The primary…

Describes the Community College of Philadelphia's three-level developmental curriculum consisting of basic English and math courses and developmental-content, noncredit courses in history, geography, social science, and psychology. Reviews the objectives, content, and instructional methods of each level of the curriculum and discusses outcomes.…

Describes an approach to skills counseling that goes beyond what is often done in universities. Includes examples of forms that are used to record work done with students. (AEA)

Discusses the future role of developmental education and educators. Predicts changes in jobs and life and learning perceptions that will affect teaching methods and techniques. Sees increases in developmental studies influencing economics, production, cultural identity, and interrelationship recognition. (DMM)

Citations and abstracts are provided for two documents from the ERIC collection dealing with career education programs for developmental students: (1) Javen's evaluation of the Career Center at Imperial Valley College (ED 142 705) and (2) Carney's investigation of a career developmental workshop for emotionally disadvantaged students (ED 072 367).…