Observes that there are numerous imperatives for changes in U.S. mathematics teaching and learning, but, in many schools, classroom practice remains conventional. Examines the reforms enacted in a midsized, urban school district. Reports that the resources available for mathematics education restricted possibilities for reform. (DSK)

Argues that there is little rationale behind current methods of assessing higher-education quality because there is little exploration of what constitutes quality. Despite good intentions, quality monitoring has become overly bureaucratic, and potential for significant change is hampered by an inappropriate focus on accountability, not on…

Discusses weaknesses in the system for rating educational quality in medical schools, and suggests ways to enhance the mechanics of the ratings task, the system used to obtain ratings, and factors affecting raters' judgments. The effect of the current health-care environment on ratings is examined, and guidelines are offered for a national effort…

Begins by questioning the significance of the form of institution in which teacher training occurs. Outlines reasons for doubting arguments against transferring teacher education out of universities. Presents three possible politico-educational strategies for reforming teacher training: (1) administrative, (2) professional-political, and (3)…

Explores the relationship between national standards as policy recommendations and the transformation of those recommendations into programs for school science and mathematics. Provides a brief introduction to national standards, proposes a strategic framework for standards-based reform, and discusses specific challenges associated with the…

A survey of 164 accounting departments found that more of those accredited by American Association of Colleges and Schools of Business used assessment for planning purposes. More of those accredited by Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs used assessment results for instructional changes. (SK)

A survey of 885 public undergraduate institutions examined influences of state characteristics, accreditation emphases, and institutional dynamics on three approaches to student assessment (cognitive, affective, and post-college). Institutional dynamics and accreditation region were found to be the primary influences on all three student…

Identifies and describes some of the mathematics curriculum issues associated with graphing calculators such as equity, role of calculators, content and sequencing, textbook design, learning to use a calculator, worksheets, student decision-making, calculator dependence, assessment, electronic algorithms, multiplying choices, calculator…

A study examined the rate of participation of Hawaiian students with disabilities in state-wide assessments in grades three, six, eight, and ten. Results found that roughly 64% of all students with disabilities were assessed in 1995. Most students who were excluded from testing were those with severe disabilities. (Author/CR)

Presents the use of concept mapping as an assessment tool augmented by an additional activity. Discusses how this elaboration of a concept map contains potential information on what students are coming to understand and helps the teacher to decide the direction of future instruction. Presents examples of students' concept maps. (ASK)

Investigates the use of a multi-step Test Item Post-Conference (TIPC) procedure with 30 English-as-a-second-language students. Notes that the procedure results in an "adjustment" of standardized multiple choice tests scores. Finds the procedure proved relatively efficient and the results were well-received by the participating ESL teachers.…

Defines the Transitions Endorsement program as a school improvement model based upon the credentialing of individual students. States that schools pursuing the endorsement must focus on helping students make successful transitions from school to school and from school to career. Outlines credentialing requirements and criteria for the endorsement.…

This article summarizes results from tests that have allowed examinee choice of test items. It paints a bleak psychometric picture for the use of examinee choice within fair tests. Choice is anathema to standardized testing unless the aspects that characterize the test are irrelevant to what is being tested. (SLD)

Suggests that writing centers should conduct more sophisticated evaluations, and should turn to educational program evaluation and select general types of evaluations most appropriate for writing centers. Presents an evaluation which exemplifies and clarifies what is called for in the first half of the article. (SC)

This article discusses five outcomes of interdisciplinary teaming in middle school settings, based on the School Improvement Self-Study. These outcomes are intended to illustrate the positive impact of teaming with data from schools of varying demographic features. Outcomes include improvements to work climate, parental contact, job satisfaction,…