For a study of the basic competencies required by medical assistants, an instrument was developed listing 92 competencies and 9 cognitive domain statements. Respondents were asked their opinion on the level of importance and level of proficiency needed for job entry for each competency. Instruments were mailed to 100 physicians, 102 clinics, and…

A study was conducted to provide information on the job requirements for Minnesota coordinators of special needs, those people at the local school district level who are responsible for services to handicapped and/or disadvantaged students in vocational education. Information on the coordinator job came from three major sources: the state Plan for…

This study, after introducing Ghana's history and people, traces the story of educational development since 1951 and describes the present formal educational system. The subject is divided into four categories of consideration. First, the development of education over the years from colonial times through the modern system that has evolved is…

Discusses needs for better quality vocational agriculture teachers, suggesting appropriate focus for preservice and inservice programs. (HD)

In the past, teachers have had little input into decisions made about programs designed for teacher preparation. These have been determined almost exclusively by state departments of education and accreditation agencies. Programs must consider the needs of the teacher, as perceived by the teacher, if they are to become effective. (Author)

This paper discusses the practice of educational audiology, its legislative basis, and services offered to hearing-impaired children, such as a high-risk register/referral system, comprehensive screening program, and classroom acoustics management. A plan for in-service education and a proposal for an accreditation program in Educational Audiology…

A roundtable discussion by executives of the Association of School Business Officials raises questions about the recruitment, preparation, and availability of school business officials in the coming years. (MLF)

Controversy over the issue of drug licensure for optometrists is discussed. A study to analyze optometrists in terms of academic qualifications as compared to clinicians currently licensed to use pharmaceuticals is described. (MLW)

Aspects of practical assessment such as question design and management of the assessment are discussed. Reference is made to some of the problems and to the possibilities for innovation as a result of implementing practical assessment of the kind required by the General Certificate of Secondary Education examining groups. (CW)

The Holmes and Carnegie reports offer policy recommendations concerning the education and recruitment of Black teachers. As the student population becomes more nonwhite, the processes of teaching, testing, and certifying minority group teachers must become free of bias. Scholarships and pay raises will attract more minorities to the profession.…

Reviews the current status of beginning-teacher assessment or apprenticeship programs; discusses the impact of assessment on Black and other minority prospective teachers; and urges that Black teacher-educators seek to influence policy decisions to ensure equity as well as excellence and help graduates overcome obstacles to becoming teachers.…

The National Education Association (NEA) asserts that precertification testing should be an important filter for guaranteeing that only competent candidates are certified to teach. However, NEA also stresses that all teacher education students must have equal opportunity and access to the resources required to produce quality teachers and is…

Traces the political history and the future political role of teacher competency testing nationwide. Focuses on the role of testing in the allocation of educational and employment opportunity. (GC)

The article reports on a 1985 survey of state certification standards for learning disability teachers. A chart presents data by state under such headings as categorical endorsement, specific courses listed, the number of special education hours required, state-identified competency standards, and teacher exam. (DB)

"Quick fixes" and over-reactive policy mandates don't clearly anticipate long-term implications. Examples are given of the negative effects of scholarship/loan programs, career ladders, changing credentialing requirements, and teacher competency testing, originally devised to avoid teacher shortages. (Author/CB)