The general structure and goals of the assessment programs in Manitoba, Canada, are described, and the social studies assessment project is specifically discussed. Social studies objectives, the process of developing instruments to test these objectives, and the impact of the social studies assessment are discussed. (RM)

Data gathered by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) can be used to analyze the relative effects of educational systems in different countries. A simplified example of such analysis utilizes variations among countries, among age cohorts within countries, and between subject matter competencies within…

The text of "Involvement in Learning: Realizing the Potential of American Higher Education," the report of the Study Group on the Conditions of Excellence in American Higher Education is presented. (Author/MLW)

Three British studies recently compared the examination results of pupils from comprehensive schools with those of selective schools. Each study reached somewhat contrasting conclusions. Major differences among the studies are discussed in order to clarify reasons for the contrasting interpretations and to illustrate the major difficulties in…

Presents a model for a parent/student/teacher forum as a means of getting the community involved in the schools and for providing effective needs assessments. (FL)

Examines the distinct and sequential aspects of revision in the writing of first graders, as determined through a teacher's classroom research. Lists factors to consider when adjusting teaching styles to children's early writing processes. (HTH)

More efficient use of time is the key to dealing with pressures from constituents and solving problems faced by Britain's contracting public education system, which include determining goals and priorities, expanding community services, evaluating educational effectiveness, and improving educational quality. (MJL)

In response to a wide range of questions on "A Nation at Risk," the executive director of the National Commission on Excellence in Education defends its fundamental conclusions and discusses its impact and implications. (JBM)

Assesses the classroom environment to determine effectiveness of learning groups and offers suggestions for developing a "good" class, diagnosing peer interactions, and developing feedback between teachers and students. (Author/DB)

An evaluative study of teacher centers suggests that they make an impact upon classroom performance of teachers, improving their confidence and their relationship with pupils. (JD)

Describes competency-based education, discusses the alleged strenghts and weaknesses as presented by its supporters and critics, and points up the impact of competency-based education on the home economist, particularly the home economics educator. (TA)

A conceptual scheme is provided for the evaluation of instruction and ways are suggested for analyzing evaluation in terms of (1) those components of the scheme that pertain to the instructor and his institutional context, and (2) those that pertain to the institution and its societal context. (Author/LBH)

This EdSource report covers the modifications that California has made in major education policy areas thus far to comply with NCLB and their impact on the state and its schools, with a focus on those provisions that have prompted the greatest upheavals. It also looks at some of the effects NCLB is expected to have on school and district…

This volume is designed as a practical handbook that provides guidelines for teams of evaluators investigating a department or language program or individual teachers or language program directors seeking to better understand the content and context of their programs or courses. Although the volume focuses on postsecondary foreign language…

The main purpose of this article is to generate a functional model of evaluation that EMSs can be able to empower online communications characterized by imperative decision making task. The evaluation process of EMSs must merge the multicultural strategies of the theory of "Media Richness," and the ethical concerns of the critical approach. "Media…