Explores the educational benefits and applications of computer networks in elementary and secondary school classrooms, presents the basics for getting started, and introduces a sampling of networks with offerings for teachers and students. Highlights include electronic mail, file transfer, computer conferencing, information access, and future…

Defines conflict resolution and peer mediation and reviews the theoretical base for conflict resolution research. Examines the goals and activities of several peer mediation programs, and discusses the benefits of such programs. Notes that conflict resolution and peer mediation offer feasible opportunities for an entire school community to create…

The context and development of the assessment center exercises used in the field of secondary history and social studies under Connecticut's Teacher Assessment Center Program are reviewed. Preliminary findings suggest success in designing an assessment that combines the knowledge from formal instruction with the skills gained through classroom…

A recent survey by the Federal Demonstration Project, which analyzes the research administration system, found that state governments need to improve how they administer sponsored research in colleges and universities. The analysis focused on management of state-appropriated funds, federal flow-through funds, and applications to and awards from…

This survey of 51 state directors of special education and 50 state certification officers found that, although states offering categorical certification alone outnumber those offering only noncategorical certification, there is wide variation among states and a trend toward noncategorical models. Recommendations emphasizing interagency…

Discusses the teaching of history and social studies in Connecticut. Addresses curricular and teacher certification requirements, continuing education units (CEUs), and mastery testing. Identifies problems and suggests possible alternatives for evaluating tenth grade students' social studies knowledge. Briefly describes the role of the Connecticut…

Discusses the impact of the Library Services and Construction Act (LSCA) on state prison libraries. Evaluations of the LSCA are reviewed; the effectiveness of the LSCA in the areas of library budgets, staff, and book collection size is considered; and recommendations for further research are suggested. (22 references) (LRW)

Examines the need for and uses of statistical data about school library media centers; describes data currently collected by the states; discusses national data collection efforts, including an increasing emphasis on output measures; recommends further actions that should be taken; and suggests future possibilities. (six references) (LRW)

Discusses the importance of databases and information systems in efforts to examine the interinstitutional transfer of credits, courses, curricula, and students. Highlights the achievements of selected states and institutions in developing systems to monitor student flow and academic performance and to evaluate and enhance transfer/articulation…

Tennessee's one-room, drop-in school (ORDIS) concept provides educational opportunities in housing projects with high concentrations of poverty and illiteracy. In cooperation with residents' associations, ORDIS offers services for preschoolers to the elderly, including adult basic education, English as a Second Language, literacy tutoring, and…

Supportive and rehabilitative programs for the deaf are listed, along with contact data, in sections for (1) governmental programs and services (81 offices listed); (2) regional and local programs (282 listed with codes for services provided); (3) national professional organizations and centers (71 listed); and (4) key figures in deaf and deaf…

The Joint Action Committee of Organizations of and Serving the Visually Handicapped is a coalition of 24 California consumer, parent, and professional organizations; agencies; and product distributors. This article highlights coalition accomplishments in the areas of information dissemination, public policy influence, and public education and…

Discusses a possible national education computer network that would include elementary, secondary, and higher education institutions. Topics addressed include Internet; common standards; distributed computing; open access; equity concerns; and examples of two successful public school networks in Virginia and Texas that are linked through the…

Four approaches to adult English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) staff development are described: transmission of key teaching skills; state initiatives for reflective teaching; regional staff development through mentoring and partnership; and academic preparation programs. (Contains three references.) (LB)

Twenty case studies of state educational decision making from 1971 to 1991 are analyzed to portray the changing nature of Minnesota's education policy system and to consider whether the often cited "structural linkage" typology remains explanatory. The reformist tradition continues in Minnesota in spite of revenue problems and societal…