Develops criteria to establish whether a second language (L2) speaker has achieved native-like proficiency. The study compares the performance of near-native speakers of English, non-native speakers, and controls on two tasks designed to tap aspects of Universal Grammar claimed to be subject to critical period effects. Findings reveal that…

Explores the background of Australia's shift from its National Policy on Languages (NPL) to the Australian Language and Literacy Policy (ALLP). Findings are that the ALLP's virtual reality serves the ideologies of a power elite; and the NPL's understandings are necessary to avoid the consequences of alienation and racism. (50 references) (CK)

Argues that there is no pressure to make Irish an official language in Northern Ireland because the sociolinguistic preconditions for bilingualism do not exist. The article demonstrates that those Irish who do not speak or learn Irish have no less a sense of having an Irish identity than do fluent speakers or those learning Irish. (26 references)…

Describes the dynamics of problem solving through spoken discourse in one-to-one tutoring of second-language writing in order to determine whether these processes vary with either instructional approach or language used. Tutors' and students' cooperative efforts to solve problems in the students' draft compositions focused primarily on local…

Examines factors underlying the disappearance of Native American languages, examines success stories of language maintenance, and offers possible solutions to the problem of the disappearance of these minority languages and the accompanying loss of cultural identity. (20 references) (Author/CK)

Mexico's higher education system is described, particularly its current rapid expansion. The link between federal financing and evaluation policies is examined. The development of accreditation is chronicled, highlighting the influence of the North American Free Trade Agreement, and its emergence as a major issue in the agenda of higher education.…

A discussion of higher education in West Europe looks at the variety of educational philosophies guiding higher education systems and their implications for teaching, research, and administration. The changing role of universities is examined in the context of expansion and growth of private colleges. Factors affecting access and admission are…

Considers the career and contributions of Samad Behrangi, Iranian educator and childrens' author. Behrangi worked as an itinerant rural teacher in Iran during the 1960s and 1970s. Supporters link his suspicious death in 1977 to his criticism of the Reva Pahlavi regime. (MJP)

Discusses the difficulties Indian students have with civics and government classes. The tribal value system of reciprocal respect and loyalty is often antithetical to many political concepts such as confrontational politics and special interest groups. This, in turn, leads to a distrust of the idea of self-government. (MJP)

A study explored orientations to the study of statistics of 52 second-year psychology students (for whom statistics was required) and 59 arts students (for whom it was elective) at the University of Sydney (Australia). Students reported their reasons for studying statistics, course expectations, and usual approaches to studying mathematics.…

Reviews the development of technology education in North America and discusses its emerging replacement of industrial arts. Highlights some of the trends and issues defining curriculum development and classroom instruction. Details various approaches to curriculum design, program implementation, and administration. Examines differences between…

Presents an interesting example of Russian pedagogical thought. Personality-oriented instruction generally refers to cognitive style. Attempts a broad classification of objectives and procedures for this type of instruction. Includes many references and terminology from Russian pedagogy (for example, psychodidactics, social-pedagogical model,…

Recommends building Russia's educational system into a bulwark against corrupting foreign influences. Maintains that Russian culture and society are under siege from internal tensions and external influences. Advocates a vigorous policy of cultural heritage education coordinated with positive socialization. (MJP)

Discusses the design, implementation, and rationale for an international education component in Botswanan secondary schools. Maintains that sustained development requires that students learn the interconnection of cultural, economic, political, and technological systems. Includes a breakdown of main topics with corresponding notes and comments.…

Summarizes the events surrounding the "on-to-Ottawa trek," a Depression-era labor protest that culminated in the Regina Riot. Presents a series of instructional activities built around analyzing primary source documents. Documents include an official notice from the Canadian National Railways and a flyer advertising a union meeting. (MJP)