Argues that, in the assessment of school "effects," multiple indicators of school effectiveness are required, including scholastic attainment, classroom behavior, absenteeism, attitudes to learning, continuation in education, employment, and social functioning. Assesses empirical evidence on the extent to which schools may be effective…

Comments on problems raised in this special issue, focusing on the distinctive aspects of the risk research reported. Highlights issues like sample characteristics, measurement strategies, specificity of risk factors, and risk mechanisms. Discusses the challenges of integrating alternative models of risk, with special references to research into…