A survey found that many of British nurses (n=717) had inadequate knowledge and attitudes about people with AIDS. Educational programs should include the following content: attitudes/stereotypes, safer sex and infection control, confidentiality, epidemiology and statistics, and signs, symptoms, and progression of the syndrome. (SK)

Individuals possess attributes making them differently suited for excelling in particular areas. The challenge is to maintain an appropriate balance between broad educational experiences and differential expectations, responding to students' relative strengths and weaknesses. (SK)

According to responses from 357 of 1,000 secondary technology teachers, teachers are positive about the field, image, and working conditions and are open to innovative alternatives to salary increases or promotions. Professional development needs differ by discipline, and nontraditional practices are recommended. (SK)

A survey of 1,224 small Illinois manufacturers received 220 responses uncovering the following issues: (1) workers and management were the chief causes of quality problems; (2) better training and management commitment would improve quality; (3) most used inhouse training but were only somewhat satisfied with it; and (4) most used only the…

Pre-/posttest results from 28 older adults who completed a computer course revealed highly positive changes in computer attitudes. Computer interaction diaries showed enthusiasm and eagerness for future computer training. Age-related learning needs (longer training time, self-pacing, pair training) were identified. (SK)

This address first outlines identity issues faced by Canadians who are hard of hearing in communicating with and/or belonging to larger groups that are either deaf or hearing. It then looks at particular difficulties experienced by hard of hearing individuals in the areas of education, employment, and health care. (DB)

Finds little or no difference in the interest of small market advertising and public relations practitioners in professional courses. Lends support to the idea of a common curriculum (an Integrated Marketing Communications program) to fulfill the educational needs of both groups. (SR)

Claims local Protestant church leaders can confront problem of depression by providing parishioners with information about symptoms and reasons for depression; distorted understandings and uses of biblical ideas about perfection, self-denial, surrender, and expressions of anger and grief; and principles of parenting that encourage children's…

A survey of 201 Irish exporting executives, and interviews with 12 who had taken intensive language training, indicated that a high level of foreign language skill is not essential, but some competence is valuable in understanding customer needs in foreign markets. Lower-level staff need training in reading/writing rather than speaking the target…

Focus groups provide a broader range of qualitative information useful in needs assessment and continuing education program planning. One disadvantage is a group not representative of the target audience. The effectiveness of focus groups is enhanced by combining them with quantitative methods. (SK)

Presents advantages and disadvantages of environmental scanning for assessing the context of professional continuing education. Provides a checklist for evaluating the quality and usefulness of information sources. Addresses the ethics of scanning. (SK)

Reviews cognitive aging research that identifies the following effects on older adults: cognitive slowing, limited processing resources, lack of inhibition of irrelevant stimuli, and sensory deficits. Makes recommendations for teaching older adults to use computers. (SK)

Three focus groups of service agency representatives, state administrators, and rural service providers in Georgia identified their needs for geriatrics training, and barriers to accessing training. Results underscored the need for coordinated continuing-education planning. (SK)

Responses from 138 of 286 beginning Iowa farmers rated experiential learning, problem solving, and critical thinking as important skills. Cutting-edge technologies were preferred for extension program delivery, as well as verbal rather than printed information. Highly rated topics included business management of farming. Extension was well…

The average score of 44 nursing-home nurses on a nutrition knowledge questionnaire was 65%. Scores of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses were significantly different. Nutritional assessment activity correlated with nutritional knowledge. The need for further training regarding nutritional concerns of nursing-home residents was…