Discusses issues and implication underlying the graduation competency testing movement in the social studies. Presents advantages and disadvantages of commercially and locally developed tests and outlines steps in selecting competencies and preparing tests. (KC)

Identifies inservice teacher recommendations for incorporating technology competency requirements into preservice teacher education programs based on survey results from 287 elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers. Analysis of the data, including rankings of competencies, supports the importance of technology training for teacher…

The authors report results from a survey of all state supervisors of technology education. Information is included on the numbers of technology teachers in each state, certification issues, vacancies in technology education, and salaries. Data were also collected on student enrollments, funding, and curriculum issues. (CH)

A discussion of vocational education in Swedish high schools covers the vocational education system's structure within and outside secondary schools, enrollment and employment patterns, curriculum and work experience options, curriculum content and quality, and issues of current concern. (MSE)

Reports major findings of the most recent survey of graduate curricula in educational communications and technology conducted by the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT). Trends in U.S. and foreign programs are identified as well as changes in faculty, curriculum, entrance requirements, student services, and graduation…

Comparison of the transcripts of 2,098 high school graduates from 1982 and 1989 showed that vocational graduates made only small gains in math/science achievement. Most vocational graduates did not progress beyond general math or science courses. (SK)

Suggests that college students could begin to repay their debt to society during their studies by participating in a nonformal system of community education and outreach. Describes how this strategy was implemented in India to provide political education for older members of society. (DMM)

A discussion of whether the pharmaceutical externship/clerkship experience fulfills all or part of the required internship distinguishes between the two program types, looks at what has been learned from the externship/clerkship, and outlines what still is needed if the externship/clerkship is to be accepted by pharmacy boards as fulfilling…

Presents recommendations from the Ohio Council for the Social Studies for high school graduation requirements in social studies education and discusses the rationale behind proposed changes. Assesses the impact of the Council's recommendations, and defines potential cost factors involved in the recommendations. (RW)

Describes how one university's change from a seat-time to a proficiency-based foreign-language requirement affected foreign-language programs and instructional approaches, and focuses on the reasons for the change, student and instructor attitudes, and administrative changes. (CB)

Despite evidence of improved instruction, a newly elected school board has reinstated traditional graduation requirements at Littleton (Colorado) High School. Apparently, juniors who had previously earned average grades were overwhelmed or confused by the graduation portfolio and demonstration requirements. Also, assessment tasks, scoring rubrics,…

In one California high school, learning to learn is a measurable outcome assessed by all students' participation in graduation by exhibition. Students must meet state requirements and demonstrate learning prowess by publicly exhibiting their skills in math, science, language arts, social science, service learning, and postgraduation planning. (MLH)

In Minnesota, imperial forces would implement a controlling, if well-intentioned system designed to make teachers and students conform to standards not of their choosing. Based on outcome-based education precepts, the proposed reform ideas are retreads of tried and untrue conservative concepts with a history of failure. When minimum expectations…

Community service can raise students' self-esteem, develop moral character, and help students feel part of their community. However, school leaders need to be aware of the potential pitfalls associated with mandating community service. These include liability, cost, logistical hassles, and possible negative psychological effects on students. (MLF)

High school improvement is possible with visionary leadership and common goals. Ayer (Massachusetts) High School is a small, comprehensive school that has restructured itself to meet 21st century needs. Revolutionary changes have occurred in instructional improvement, core curriculum, technology education, class size, graduation requirements,…