Asserts that the Japanese educational system consists of the "facade" of ministerially-decreed harmony and the "real intent" of competition. Argues that the balance between the two has been endangered by recent reforms that seek to promote "creativity and diversification." Suggests that policymakers did not analyze…

Urges a reassessment of research on graduate programs in art education produced by Anderson, Eisner, and McRorie (1998). Asks how master's programs centered on studio art will produce teachers capable of meeting new national standards, and how highly specialized doctoral programs will produce people capable of teaching K-12 instructors. (DSK)

Urges a reassessment of research on graduate programs in art education produced by Anderson, Eisner, and McRorie (1998). Suggests that a few key findings of the study may be overstated or, at least, underinformed. Emphasizes a number of key problems with art teacher education illuminated by the study. (DSK)

Interviews faculty who teach introductory geography education courses, and surveys preservice students in them, to determine if a course at the University of Northern Colorado meets the Colorado Geography Standards. Uses the results to design introductory courses that strengthen skill and content training. Assesses the success of these courses.…

The value of a multimethod, quantitative and qualitative approach to evaluation in an applied setting is demonstrated through a case study of an evaluation of a classroom literacy intervention (Classroom Publishing) that had been implemented without regard to subsequent evaluation. The two types of techniques complemented each other to create…

The current challenge for higher education is not to change its traditional beliefs but to become more conscious of them and the role they play in academic life. Such inquiry will show that preoccupation with acquiring resources, enhancing reputations, and being smart has had an effect contrary to academics' own best interests and to the…

This article analyzes how Kentucky and Maryland have addressed basic issues in developing alternate assessment for students with disabilities who cannot be included within regular state and local district education assessment and accountability measures. Issues include why they chose the formats, standards, and implementation systems they did and…

Examines public debate over private education in the context of the Hollywood dramatic feature film. Analyses four recent films that all portray private schools negatively. Film representation of public schools is more optimistic. Asserts that the films ignore or misrepresent three strengths of private education: effective leadership, small school…

Addresses middle school teachers' concerns about young adolescents' motivation for literacy learning. Focuses on beneficial classroom strategies, including suggestions for classroom environment, tasks, teacher authority, reward and recognition, grouping, evaluation, and time. (JPB)

Asserts that Catholic schools throughout America continue to make remarkable contributions to our nation's intellectual and moral growth. Highlights the impressive results of Catholic schools in teaching, student learning, graduation rates and retention, moral development, and the alleviation of resources for public schools. Presents the text of a…

Argues that the use of Total Quality Management, School Development Planning and Office for Standards in Education Inspections intensifies teachers' work and encourages schools and teachers to "fabricate" themselves for the purposes of evaluation. Uses data from a secondary school to illustrate these points. (DSK)

Presents eight papers delivered at a symposium on the impact of the Dearing Report on geography instruction in the United Kingdom. The Dearing Report reviews higher education and charts the course of curriculum and instruction for the next 20 years. The papers address standards, regional applications, and criticisms. (MJP)

Reports on a 1996 Ministry of Education study on the teaching of history in Quebec. Criticizes the study for perpetuating leftist biases in favor of multiculturalism and globalization while censuring the study of Western civilization as evidence of Eurocentrism. Discusses the implications of, and reactions to, the government report. (MJP)

Analyzes a data set of music education in the maintained schools of England to (1) establish an authoritative national picture and (2) determine effective school-specific strategies that could be replicated. Focuses on music participation from age 14, when music is no longer part of the National Curriculum. (CMK)

This article decries the negative effects of the standards movement and nationwide high-stakes testing on the teaching of creative writing as teachers teach to the test and formulaic writing is preferred over truly generative writing. The relationship of good writing to good thinking is stressed. (Contains references.) (DB)