The effects of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) on basic skills achievement and attitudes toward instruction were compared for two groups of third- through sixth-grade Spanish-speaking migrant children. Results indicated that students who used CAI had greater achievement gains, but students in the non-CAI program had more favorable attitudes…

Achievement test scores and ratings of 2,368 13-year-old students who participated in the 1977-78 National Assessment of Educational Progress were analyzed. Achievement was significantly associated with attitudes, sex, ethnicity, parents' education, verbal opportunities in the home, and frequency of mathematical practice. (Authors/CJ)

Studies comparing the reading, mathematics, and language arts achievement of retained students with the achievement of promoted students are analyzed, using meta-analysis. Overall, research indicates that retained students fall behind the first year of retention and spend the rest of their academic careers in a vain attempt to catch up. (PP)

Eighth- and ninth-grade students underwent several forms of preparation before taking a mathematics achievement test: (1) going over practice problems (of the nature covered by the test); (2) review sessions; and (3) lecture and discussion on the importance of the test. Test preparation significantly affected mathematics achievement test…

Anticipating enrollment limitations in the University of Alabama's engineering technology programs, a research project was conducted to find a method of limiting enrollment without sacrificing program quality. Portions of the study dealing with selection of optimum entry-level mathematics and preparatory course/professional course relationship are…

Reviews the attribution literature on sex differences in academic achievement, especially in mathematics. Suggests that: (1) there are small sex differences in the importance attached to effort and ability as causes of mathematics success and failure; and (2) attributions are not as significant as other possible causes in mediating course…

Assessment test data from 1976-79 on California children in grade six were analyzed. Loglinear models were used to evaluate the consistency of response of each sex. A significant interaction between sex and choice of distractor occurred for a large majority of the items. (MNS)

A study of differences in the problem-solving skills of Black, Anglo, and Chicano adolescents from rural Texas found that: (1) Reading achievement played a major role in problem-solving; and (2) No significant sex or ethnic differences were revealed. (PP)

Describes a field study in which the mathematics portion of the PLATO Basic Skills Learning System was used in remedial courses for high school and adult education students at three Florida high schools. Analysis shows that the PLATO system is effective and cost-efficient. (JJD)

Sex differences in ability and achievement appear to be diminishing, but considerable controversy exists about their role in mathematics achievement. Standardized test data on reading and mathematics achievement by sex and age are analyzed. Possible effects of biological factors are also discussed, along with information about educational and…

The McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA) appears to be an effective predictor of school achievement for 31 English-speaking second-grade Mexican-American children. High Pearson product-moment correlations were obtained between MSCA and the Comprehensive Tests of Basic Skills. (Author/PN)

The relationship between interaction and achievement in cooperative small groups was studied in four junior high school mathematics classrooms. The interaction variable that related most strongly to achievement was asking a question and receiving no response; this type of interaction was negatively related to achievement. (Author/BW)

To assess the impact of parents on children's achievement, self-concept, and related beliefs, extensive questionnaires measuring attitudes and beliefs regarding mathematics achievement were administered to children in grades 5 through 11 and their parents. The potential influence of parents both as role models and as expectancy socializers was…

One of two articles on academic achievement, this article discusses the performance of U.S. students on mathematics and science achievement tests compared to students in other countries. Recent data show they are performing better. This commentary examines the importance of meeting certain research conditions before drawing conclusions about…

The use of achievement levels and anchor points in press reports of the 1990 National Assessment of Educational Progress mathematics assessment was studied. In a review of 41 articles, widespread oversimplification and frequent misinterpretations were found, sometimes stemming from standards-based reporting. Implications for future standards-based…