Studies concerning attributes of quality in higher education as defined in academic studies are reviewed. Separate reviews are presented for studies of quality at the graduate level, in professional programs, and at the undergraduate level. Academe's continuing attempts to quantify "quality" so as to measure it empirically rather than subjectively…

Case study methods involve an in-depth, longitudinal examination of a single instance or event. They result in an increased understanding of why the instance happened as it did, and are especially well suited for generating, rather than testing, hypotheses. Six types of case studies are discussed, based on the framework of L. Datta (1990). For…

This publication provides information on current research on teaching and teacher education. The abstracts contained here have been organized into three major categories: teacher education programs, professional development, and intellectual growth. In addition to addressing a variety of topics, these papers are based upon a range of scholarly…

A general evaluation model and workshop activities to help law-related education (LRE) project personnel develop and implement evaluation plans for their projects are provided. The model and activities, however, are applicable to other areas of the social studies as well. The first section of the handbook presents a model for evaluating LRE…

This publication contains abstracts of papers on current research on teaching and teacher education which were presented in the segment of the 1989 AERA annual meeting organized by Division K (teaching and teacher education). A diversity of topics are addressed in the papers and a diversity of investigative procedures--case studies, conceptual…

The master's degree is reviewed in terms of its current status and rate of conferral, its diversity, standards, and the dominant program models. Changes in the patterns of master's degrees conferred, by discipline, are examined, and problems associated with the proliferation of degrees are noted. Diversity in curricular models is cited as a source…

The literature on incentive early retirement for faculty members is reviewed, including the findings of studies that have assessed the effectiveness of such programs. In addition to describing different types of programs and the incentives offered, attention is directed to legal issues, costs and benefits, assessing whether a program is feasible,…

This monograph presents an overview of employer-sponsored career development programs. It is divided into four sections. The "Adult Development" and "Adult Career Development" sections review pertinent theories and research (basic concepts, task model, transition model, theme model, adult career stages, career anchors approach, career development…

In this digest, "career counseling" refers to activities intended to improve individuals' ability to make career decisions. Studies have shown that career counseling helps individuals as much as well-developed psychological, educational, or behavioral interventions. But more studies are needed to explain this phenomenon; this digest…

Reviews the literature in the ERIC collection regarding the role of institutional research in the community college planning process. Addresses comprehensive and master planning, budgeting, program planning and evaluation, student follow-up, student information systems, and computer support. (DD)

The paper focuses on questions related to the use of microcomputer software in the social studies classroom. The most commonly used microcomputer instructional techniques are presented, including drill and practice, tutorial, inquiry learning, educational games, real world simulations, models, use of graphics, and creative writing. The paper…

Purposes for academic program review and diverse institutional approaches to college program review are considered, along with possible outcomes and ways to improve program review. Attention is directed to program review practices at 30 representatives institutions. As background, predominant types of program review over the past 15 years levels…

This publication reviews works on educational reform that represent attempts to do more than merely respond in knee-jerk fashion to political pressure for reform. Bruce Joyce and Emily Calhoun, in "Learning Experiences in School Renewal: An Exploration of Five Successful Programs" (Eugene, Oregon: ERIC Clearinghouse on Educational…

This ERIC Digest reports on the origins, purposes, and methods of the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) Civic Education Study. In 1993, the General Assembly of the IEA decided to carry out a two phase study of civic education. The goal of the two phase study was to identify and examine in a comparative…

The ERIC Clearinghouse on Teacher Education and the Lincoln, Nebraska, Public School System undertook a cooperative project to raise teachers' awareness and use of the ERIC data bases. The report describes project background and planning, project execution, and evaluation. Suggestions for future replication are also provided. Appendices provide a…