Early childhood educators are increasingly concerned about the trend toward national standards and national testing. This article addresses issues of assessment in the early years of schooling, prekindergarten through third grade--a period when active, engaged, hands-on learning is most appropriate. Documentation of a kindergarten project on a…

The extent to which the instruction, assessment, and Maryland School Performance Assessment Program (MSPAP) test preparation activities of language arts teachers aligned with the Maryland Learning Outcomes (MLOs) and the reading and writing tasks on the MSPAP was studied in the 1996-97 school year. The reading and writing activities of 280…

This document is a report on an action campaign started by members and supporters of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) to combat current and planned cuts in state support to community colleges. The action campaign includes press releases and letters to the media, local leaders, general public, and elected officials. The…

The hypothesis that enhanced knowledge of assessment rubrics by teachers and thus by students results in improved student achievement was studied in the context of the development of mandatory high school assessments for the Maryland State Department of Education. Rubrics were under development to score constructed-response items in the content…

An attempt was made to improve students' academic grades and students' opinions of themselves as learners through the use of alternative assessments. The format of mastery learning using the direct instruction practice model was combined with performance-based assessment to increase achievement, self-esteem, and higher level thinking skills.…

At the time of this writing, little was being done in the area of educating mentally and emotionally handicapped children in the United States. The author details this problem, reports on what is currently being done, and offers solutions and recommendations on further combating the issue. Contents include: (1) The problem. (2) State provisions…

How to identify and measure educational quality pervades American education. The Higher Education Research Institute and the Council on Learning launched a study to identify broad quality indicators, particularly at the undergraduate level. Peer groups and indices of selectivity are among the facets used to measure quality of education. (MLW)

This issue contains a summary of research in science education for the year 1977. The review is organized into four major parts. These are the overview, survey research, experimental research and conclusions. (HM)

The evolution of the California Assessment Program from its legislative origins in 1961 is discussed. The following topics are included: history; analysis and reporting of results; program impact; program assessment; and future changes in emphasis. (MH)

A preliminary analysis of questionnaire data indicates, along with academic outcomes, a significant impact of work and study abroad programs on subsequent behavior. Educational and job decisions were influenced, as well as thinking about values and American identity. Focus is on the Antioch Education Abroad program and its participants.…

Surveys a number of clinical doctor of philosophy, clinical doctor of psychology, counseling, and school psychology doctoral programs to ascertain the importance of various admission criteria. Reveals that, while some programs favor a terminal master's degree, the clinical programs viewed them negatively. Briefly discusses other admissions…

Reviews the decades-old debate about the efficacy of student projects and learner controlled instruction and the role they play in authentic assessment. Argues that the shift to a postindustrial economy has given these methods renewed creditably and relevance. Discusses the impact that technological advancements have made. (MJP)

Describes and analyzes Swedish curriculum theory and research over the last 20 years. Relates this to changes in the comprehensive school system and the decline of the welfare state. Recounts the break-up of the cooperative relationship among the research community, the National Board of Education, and the Ministry of Education. (MJP)

This 13th annual edition of "Education Vital Signs" reports on indicators of school and student success, such as parent involvement, academic coursework, high school completion, technology use, achievement test scores, and student performance on reading, math, and science assessments. Also offers state-by-state statistics and a profile of school…

Evaluates the effect of multicultural education on racism in Canada. Maintains that racism is still an integral part of Canadian life and, in some instances, appears to be on the rise. Argues for a vigorous and consistent educational policy emphasizing multicultural and antiracist training. (MJP)