The authors review the background of competency-based education (CBE), discuss its merits and drawbacks, and cite recommendations from the National Association of Secondary School Principals. (DS)

Presents the Association for Science Education (ASE) position regarding the desired preparation students should have obtained in science prior to leaving school. (SL)

Describes the development of a criterion referenced minimum-competency test in reading which was normed by community job holders and based on the ability to answer questions about items taken from a newspaper. (MKM)

As a basis for taking a position on the future school structure in grades 8-10 in Denmark, an extensive study was carried out on mixed ability teaching (teaching in heterogeneous classes) on these grade levels. Results showed that mixed ability teaching gave at least as good results as teaching in differentiated classes. (Author/LMO)

Even as school standards rise, the on-time graduation rate remains generally stable and the proportion of the American population that has completed high school is the greatest in our history. Negative estimates are based on a lack of definitions and data discrepancies. Two strategies for increasing the graduate rate are discussed. (PS)

Describes the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, a free, residential two-year program affiliated with the University of North Carolina. The school accommodates 400 students and features an outstanding faculty, impressive facilities, a selective admission policy, rigorous graduation requirements, and a mentor program. (MLH)

Examines the new state-mandated high school graduation tests emerging in response to perceived declines in educational standards. Indicates general consequences for implementing these tests, including public perceptions based on a "box score" mentality. As competency measures, the tests have had little impact on pupils, teachers,…

Reform activities initiated by states in response to the National Commission on Excellence in Education's report tend to fall into five categories; teacher preparation and professional development, teacher certification, curriculum, instruction, and financing. The state initiatives are reviewed in this article. (MT)

Results of a national survey on state postsecondary regulations concerning the use of competency or other tests required of college students in the course of their undergraduate programs as a check on academic standards, and the impetus for such a requirement, are reported. The policies of Georgia, Florida, and California are highlighted. (MSE)

Florida's new standards for college admission are outlined and support and criticism from the academic and general community are discussed. Among the issues are unevenness of pre-collegiate academic experience, increased barriers to minority group access and success, and the ability of the new standards to assure equivalent undergraduate…

Reports responses from 83 schools in a survey that covers the number of languages required and the means of satisfying those requirements. (CRH)

Mandatory exit exams are in place, or will soon be, in 27 states. Students must pass them as one condition for receiving a standard diploma. Because the standard diploma is considered a property right, states must carefully consider the opportunities that students have to pass graduation exams. Federal legislation has resulted in increased…

This report presents baseline findings from a 3-year study of state exit exams. The study involved data from all states with current or planned exit exams; case studies of five states; and research review. Researchers examined: why so many states are adopting high school exit exams, impacts of exit exams on students, what the exams are like, and…

This book explores whether courses that focus on issues such as race/ethnicity, cultural diversity, cultural pluralism, and ethnic studies should be required for bachelor's degrees. The study focuses on the American cultures breadth requirement at the University of California-Berkeley and the ethnic studies requirement at the University of…