A survey of heads of academic library reference services gathered information on reference collection development. Findings included: (1) selection and weeding frequently are not guided by written policies; (2) empirical studies of use are almost nonexistent; and (3) online availability of sources is an important factor in selection. (20…

Despite the variation in fees, the actual services most superintendent search consultants provide are remarkably similar. Price differences reflect the size of a consultant's network and track record. Recommends matching fee ranges with an appropriate category of consultant and basing selection on a 10-step process of consultant services. (CJH)

Various approaches to developing and implementing economics curricula are explored, including positive and normative economics, teacher-developed informal curriculum, district-developed formal curriculum, "outside" curriculum, the infusion approach, or as a separate course. It is suggested that a "blend" of the alternatives may optimize the…

Five guidelines are presented for selecting educational courseware. Student behavioral objectives should be stated. Motivational and informative feedback should be provided. The type of student control should be appropriate to the learner and the task. The content should be accurate, and the pedagogical approach should be acceptable to the school…

Poses the theory that teaching is telling a story about the acquisition of knowledge. Explores the approaches of four composition textbooks using the pattern of heroic adventure (separation, initiation, and return) as a basis for comparison. Concludes that the implied educational values in texts should be considered conscientiously by teachers.…

Describes the current status and limitations of expert systems, and explores the possible applications of such systems in education and training. The use of expert systems as tutors, as job aids, and as a vehicle for students to develop their own expert systems on specific topics are discussed. (40 references) (CLB)

Board members anxious to ensure sensible religious balance in the curriculum can check the school library collection to see if a broad spectrum of religious information is available to students. Suggestions are provided for improving the basic collection with standard reference and specialized materials and integrating these materials into the…

Makes six suggestions for selecting appropriate career assessment instruments in the areas of proper training, use of the right kind of standards, deciding what information is needed, getting written documentation about tests under consideration, careful evaluation of instruments, and becoming familiar with issues in career assessment. (ABL)

Discusses progress in the southeastern states regarding mandated testing for would-be principals and summarizes results of a nationwide survey. Responses indicate that 12 states currently require special written examinations and show a movement toward state-mandated examinations for principals. Includes three references. (MLH)

There must be a return to classic texts in humanities instruction, but the selection of those texts is no longer simple, because of questions about (1) identifying which are classics and (2) connections made between the classic texts studied and a student's personal life. (MSE)

Covers leasing of commercial space for child care centers, either as an enhancement to a developer's project or on a commercial basis in competition with other types of commercial development. Discusses different negotiating psychologies and key negotiating points to be used in each leasing situation. (NH)

Compares seven center management programs used for basic financial and data management tasks such as accounting, payroll and attendance records, and mailing lists. Describes three other specialized programs and gives guidelines for selecting the best software for a particular center. (NH)

Studies two examples of Harold Innis' social theory to show that he had a sophisticated ecological understanding of the many forces at work in social dynamics. Argues that Innis' concept of monopolies of knowledge involved freedom both in elite control of a dominant technology and popular resistance to this dominance. (JD)

Outlines the history of the use of the Instructional Design Process (a "systems approach" that can be applied to the curriculum development process) and its advantages. Includes a summary of the process and a list of references. (MD

Presents an overview and an example of use of the Information-Visualization System, an approach to visual selection enabling educators to match desired learning outcomes with the best visuals to carry the message. Decision tables and resource book containing visual options, information types, and suggested methods of enhancing visuals are…