Draws on an ongoing project on "Elites in Policy-making," aimed at critically examining the postwar "partnership" between LEAs, teachers, and the Ministry of Education. Challenges pluralism as the dominant theoretical approach to the study of education policymaking in the United Kingdom and argues for a more state-centered,…

Use of decision support systems (DSS) to increase the utilization of management science models and accounting information is discussed. It is argued that application of the conceptual foundations of DSS to evaluation and other forms of applied social research is an effective means of increasing evaluation utilization by policymakers. (TJH)

Analyzes the major proposals for drug legalization and discusses the possible consequences of these efforts if successful. Argues that the legalization of drugs would be an extremely complex undertaking and that most calls for such action do not offer specific proposals. Points out research that supports arguments against legalization of drugs.…

Two competing approaches to policy analysis are distinguished: a credibility approach, and a truth approach. According to the credibility approach, the policy analyst's role is to search for plausible argument rather than truth. Each approach has pragmatic tradeoffs in fulfilling the goal of providing usable knowledge to decision makers. (TJH)

Strategic planning, a necessary alternative to logical incrementalism in turbulent environments, will let educators move from a reactive to a proactive posture. This article briefly reviews strategic planning literature, focuses on environmental scanning, and describes an evolving model developed for the chief state school officers of a four-state…

A series of brief personnel philosophy statements for each major personnel function is advocated. The purpose of the statements are: (1) to provide a foundation for personnel policy development, (2) to provide standards of expectations for supervisors and employees, and (3) to help departments and the organization meet their goals. (MLW)

Explores the political influence of 100 organized agriculture and rural interests, as perceived by 195 Congressional staff, lobbyists, and organization officials. Finds that organizational influence is related to high activity and policy involvement within the Congressional agricultural establishment and to perceived usefulness to the policy…

Discusses a literacy research project that aims to produce a critical review of existing policy-related knowledge about adult literacy and illiteracy. Reports on the major themes of this review. (JOW)

Suggests that those planning policy for the future of extension education need to cultivate diversity in thinking and creative approaches to accommodate unexpected events. (CH)

As the marketplace becomes increasingly complex, the need for consumer research involvement in public policy making grows. The most effective way for academics to affect policy is to participate in advocacy groups. (SK)

Issues of legal consent and competency, in addition to the relevant psychological literature, were reviewed in relation to institutional policy for sexual management of mentally retarded individuals. Suggestions are provided that minimize prejudicial treatment of mentally retarded people, without eliminating their opportunities for sexual…

Addresses problems associated with the development of environmental education policies for large conservation organizations. Contains a framework that gives an indication of the broad range of issues, services, and activities which should be addressed during policy development. (LZ)

Staff development funding under the National Literacy Act of 1991 provides real opportunities for using action research on a broad level to advance professionalism, implement policy, and enhance internal validity. Action research can be a key to professionalism and policy in the field. (Author/JOW)

Longitudinal studies of gifted and talented individuals can provide a base upon which to determine educational practice. Such studies could reveal whether life-span patterns are unique and how demographic characteristics affect aspirations and achievement. (SK)

Analyzed institutional policies related to persons with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) among Texas' colleges by comparing policies to guidelines suggested by the American College Health Association. Of 133 institutions responding, 74% indicated existence of policies, whereas 14% indicated they were in process of policy development.…