In almost all democratic countries, a rising incidence of nonformal means of political communication, e.g., polls, pressure groups, demonstrations, suggests a need to broaden participation in political decision making. Outlines two possible approaches for achieving this goal: the dual weighted-vote system and computerized politics. (Author/CS)

Examines efforts of citizens of Los Angeles, California to implement school desegregation in the district from 1971 to 1981. Describes measures taken by the school board and anti-integrationist groups to resist desegregation, the court role in the proceedings, and the eventual failure of the desegregation movement in the area. (MJL)

This lesson helps students understand the global network involved in international events. Students have an opportunity to examine the impact of international law and the role of international organizations, national governments, and private individuals in the effort to secure the release of United States hostages in Iran. (AM)

The author provides a historical approach to understanding the political, economic, and cultural motives that shaped adult education's philosophy in Poland. Analysis of the pre and post "Solidarity" movement is provided to demonstrate the role of adult education in an ongoing process of learning democratic principles. (SSH)

Increasing social fragmentation has resulted in human alienation and a subsequent lack of power to achieve. Education must initiate a renewal process by providing a "public space" or a common world in which human beings with diverse backgrounds can integrate individual perspectives toward common action to improve schools and society. (Author/MJL)

Participation has been accepted as an always desirable methodology in seeking development with rather than for the people. This paper explores some of the limitations of participation as it relates to planning and implementing nonformal education projects. The author focuses on six broad issues that relate to project participation. (SSH)

Concurrent case studies of consensus formation and maintenance in school district governance in six New York districts yielded eight critical variables, including environmental constraints, community interest group mobilization, school board and administrator unity, administrative expertise, superintendents' leadership abilities, teacher…

Explains the steps the Portland (Oregon) public schools used to cut expenditures. Crucial ingredients of the program were citizen input, precise impact statements, and clear distinction among funds for instruction, support, and management. (Author/JM)

Described is the community-wide approach to a unified energy conservation plan for Davis, California. The plan has involved solar technology and use of bicycles as a major mode of transportation. Policy implementation in the form of energy conservation ordinances is reviewed. (RE)

Volunteering is defined and discussed, and the new volunteer on the international scene, the "citizen diplomat," is profiled. The National Council for Community Services to International Visitors (CONSERV), a national program that coordinates services at the community level with national "sending" agencies, is described. (MLW)

Describes a study investigating student involvement in community college organizations. Indicates that organization leaders were more involved in campus activities than ordinary members and nonmembers and that students who were highly involved in campus life tended to view community involvement more positively and anticipated engaging in community…

Describes research suggesting diverse trends in the behavior and attitudes of Chinese students, which often conflict with Chinese tradition and customs, and official Chinese government ideology. Addresses the decline of personal sacrifice for the social cause, and changes in courtship and sexual attitudes. Relates most of these changes to China's…

Asserts that social studies teachers must combine individual rights and responsibilities when teaching citizenship. Contends democracy depends on citizenship literacy, or citizens who understand their First Amendment rights as well as their obligations. Stresses the importance of teaching students to think critically about their role as citizens.…

Campus Compact is a national coalition of college and university presidents pledged to promoting volunteerism on their campuses. The undergraduate experience is seen as incomplete without a public service component. The Student Humanitarian Awards are part of a strategy for getting the issue of public service into the spotlight. (MLW)

Discusses several reasons for decreasing voter participation in the United States, specifically focusing on lack of voter participation by youth. Highlights recommendations for increasing young voter turnout. Presents three voting activity lesson plans for middle school students and three activities entitled "Increasing Participation in…