New editions of selected college textbooks have been found to be more difficult than former ones, and experiments show that students learn less effectively from the new editions. Guidelines are offered for choosing textbooks, such as writing style, conceptual density, and the utility of readability analyses. (Editor/LBH)

Divides 31 mass communication textbooks into introductory and issue-oriented texts that reflect an insider's view of mass media and stress socialization to the industry or theory texts that take a more academic and critical view of the role of communication in society. Defines mass communication. (NKA)

Argues that children may have difficulty in learning to read because the print in their books is designed to be looked at rather than read, or because theories about a need for uniformity and simplicity result in letter shapes that are hard to distinguish or to remember. (RS)

Examines the essential elements of comparative government and politics textbooks, describing the difficulties involved in trying to cover all topics. Reviews several introductory political science textbooks, concluding that universal texts are too broad, and therefore inadequate. Proposes several qualities that contribute to good textbooks and…

Reviews 16 successful, college-level anthropology textbooks, examining content, clarity, readability, audience level, scholarship, and focus. Advocates greater coverage of topics such as applied anthropology and suggests attention be given to alternatives to the standard cultural institutions of marriage, religion, etc. States that the scientific…

Evidence derived from college catalogues, textbooks, and national convention programs is used to explore the nature and history of acting instruction in America. Stanislavski's theories and practices are discussed with reference to their acceptance in the American scene. Supplementary tables included. (JD)

Discusses the need for a Chinese business-communication textbook that is limited to and defined as communication in foreign trade and that eliminates trite expressions and out-of-date style and formats in the business writing of Chinese engaged in international business. (DF)

Provides an overview of multicultural education's goals, methods, and content as represented in 68 English language books published since 1961. Offers recommendations for further development of the field. (JDH)

Psychology texts, dating from 1940, are examined to assess the impact of Raymond B. Cattell's work on the fields of social psychology and group dynamics. Factors contributing to his surprising lack of influence, including difficulties with the complexity, terminology, and independent nature of his work and personality, are discussed. (BS)

Reports substantial discrepancies between publishers' estimates and independent estimates of the readability of secondary school-level language arts textbooks. (FL)

This study examined 16 high school economics textbooks commonly used in Michigan. The textbooks were graded for 12 criteria that form the basis for the sound study of economics: (1) the price system and production; (2) competition and monopoly; (3) comparative economic systems; (4) the distribution of income and poverty; (5) the role of…

This report describes a classroom observation study in Korean primary mathematics classrooms. What was discovered in Korean classrooms was children, through higher level questioning, were being led to conceptualize the constructs and operations. The textbook was focused on the concepts in a concise, coherent and systematic manner similar to what…

Quantitative and qualitative bias in favor of professional work modes was found to exist in elementary reading textbooks. (MS)

Article discussed the history of Ireland, its connection with Great Britain, its educational past and present, and the source materials used to describe it. (RK)