Reviews research regarding reading strategies used by Hebrew-speaking students to comprehend English for specific purposes texts, focusing on verbal report techniques in: developing a taxonomy for reading strategies; checking the appropriateness of mentalistic measures for different populations; determining similarities between first-language and…

A new program at Boston University that identifies students who would have great difficulty fulfilling their foreign language requirement is described. This program offers an alternative sequence of courses designed to help these students achieve foreign language learning success. (LMO)

Describes a personalized method of instruction being used in junior-level physical chemistry classes which uses computer-aided instruction (CAI) and computer-managed instruction (CMI). Claims this results in more instructor-student interaction, better use of classroom time, and better scores on standardized examinations. (TW)

This study investigated the effect of reward structure and group ability composition on small group computer-assisted instruction. Junior high school students practiced algebra in mixed-ability or uniform-ability groups, and rewards were based on individual performance, group performance, or a combination of both. (29 references) (Author/LRW)

Describes study designed to evaluate the effectiveness of interactive videodisc program Mastering Fractions. The videodisc program is compared with traditional fractions curriculum and teaching methods in sixth grade classes; pretests, posttests, and mastery tests used are discussed; and results of the study are analyzed. (LRW)

Summarizes National Assessment of Educational Progress findings regarding the reading proficiency of students in Catholic and public schools in fourth, eighth, and eleventh grades. Contrasts results in terms of family background and social status, school characteristics, and behavior associated with academic performance. (DMM)

Important factors in assessing performance of handicapped individuals in transitional, supported employment include secondary school vocational performance, assessment and placement, resources for supported employment, and on-the-job performance, and the social ecology of the workplace. (CB)

Describes an analysis of test items used to measure the science process skills of 11-year-olds in Great Britain. Concludes that the level of cognitive demand was a reliable predictor of the difficulty of an item. (TW)

This paper described findings from a three-year study on the impact of California legislation reforming the gifted and talented program. Results were concentrated in four areas: (1) population changes, (2) effect of new categories, (3) racial/ethnic changes, and (4) impact of funding formula. (LMO)

Formats for testing students in art production, aesthetic perception, art criticism, and art history are discussed in terms of historical precedents, underlying philosophy, reliability, and relevance to instruction. Problems in the measurement of higher-order cognitive and affective expectations of art instruction are presented. (Author/RM)

Discusses recent and projected trends in (1) enrollments in elementary and secondary schools and among special student populations, (2) the numbers and configurations of elementary and secondary schools, (3) teacher employment and salary levels, (4) state and federal aid, and (5) student performance on national mathematics and science tests. (PGD)

Discusses report by a National Research Council panel on the overrepresentation of minority children and males in special education programs, especially for the educable mentally retarded. Identifies and discusses two key issues: (1) validity of referral and assessment procedures, and (2) quality of instruction received in regular classroom and…

Isolation, sparsity, smallness, and differentness hamper pursuit of quality rural education. Necessary basic conditions for quality education are attractive buildings with positive school climate; strong teacher/administrator leadership; core curricula reflecting rural values/culture; high academic expectations for all students; and use of…

"Harvard Education Letter" is published bimonthly at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. This issue of "Harvard Education Letter" contains the following articles: (1) The "Data Wise" Improvement Process: Eight Steps for Using Test Data to Improve Teaching and Learning (Kathryn Parker Boudett, Elizabeth A. City,…

The No Child Left Behind Act (P.L. 107-110) called for the U.S. Department of Education to carry out a national study of the effectiveness of educational technology. With computers becoming ubiquitous in American schools, and purchases of hardware and software now substantial expenses for school districts, whether funding is supporting effective…