Lays down a theoretical framework to use in constructing theory useful for understanding certain kinds of policy outcomes. Available from The American Academy of Political and Social Science, 3937 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19104; $15.00 annually. (Author/IRT)

In 1973 Australia established a national Curriculum Development Centre, following some extensive experiments with national curriculum initiatives. The centre was established in response to expressed public support for education and for a strong national role in education. (RB)

This case study examines the different educational institutes in Nigeria that work in the area of curriculum development. Some receive money directly from the government; others operate as independent academic institutions and are part of a university. One institute from each category is examined. (RB)

This paper discusses the ways in which the Dutch National Institute for Curriculum Development impacts the Dutch educational system. It describes the way the institute carries out its development activities. Results of several studies on the impact of the institute's projects are reported. (RB)

Older rural Americans remain underserved because most social services are established in urban areas. Even with recent efforts to assess the conditions of the nation's rural elderly, there have been oversights that affect the development of policies intended to provide needed services. These problems and suggestions for constructive changes in…

The area of policy studies is explained and comparisons are made with evaluation research. Organizational and individual interaction between these fields would be mutually beneficial. Some of the benefits are discussed. This article and the efforts of the Evaluation Network's Professional Relations Committee should stimulate more organizational…

Reaffirms the primacy of the policy-making paradigm in academic debate. (PD)

A policy maker offers guidelines for people wishing to advocate for gifted education. Suggestions touch on such aspects as the need for apathy, the role of telephone and letter advocacy, and the appropriate target of advocacy efforts. (CL)

Outlines a view of the education of policymakers that emphasizes its humanistic character. Stresses the importance of understanding a variety of disciplinary idioms and insight into the ordinary languages of those whose problems are to be addressed. (JOW)

Article discusses the interaction of everyday affairs at school with his attempts at instituting a language policy. (RK)

Criticizes the report of the Advisory Committee on Issues in Educational Technology of the Commission on Education of the American National Academy of Engineering. (JY)

Responds to another article in the same issue of this journal. (IRT)

The essays in this collection explore issues related to public policy and higher education. They are intended to provide foundational readings in public policy and to explore contemporary public policy issues facing higher education. The chapters are: (1) "The Nature of the Policy Process" (Randall B. Ripley); (2) "Promoting Policy Theory:…

How to make participatory democracy work in a period of financial stringency and academic soul-searching. (Editor)