This article synthesizes research on social capital, school outcomes, internet use, and volunteering to argue that e-mentoring--which is commonly practiced over long distances--could become a powerful way to build greater cohesiveness in local communities. Realizing this potential will require a larger-scale and more coordinated approach to…

A discussion of the concept of andragogy argues that closer examination of it could contribute to research and development of learning design in distance education and to the convergence of classroom and distance instruction. Original meanings are explored and related to learner centeredness. Related issues and design/facilitation guidelines are…

Suggests guidelines for curriculum and program development in technical communication based on reviews of relevant survey literature, academic literature, and relevant demographic data on technical communicators. Discusses implications for designing technical communication curricula and programs. (RS)

Presents a process for defining high-quality adventure for all young people. Expands "progression" in outdoor adventure to include application of what is learned to other aspects of life. Emphasizes the importance to adventure education of nonadventurous dimensions such as group experience, and stresses that adventure is both medium and a message.…

Various forms of alternative education include elements that are incompatible with each other; alternative educators must clarify their principles and follow their own paths. For example, Kinokuni Children's Village (Japan) is a "free school" that has blended elements of the philosophies of Neill, Dewey, and its founder Hori. (SV)

The Board of Education of the School District of the City of Saginaw requested the Department of Evaluation Services to review the literature relative to competency testing, especially for the elementary grades. This review on competency testing programs and competency based education (CBE) covers several areas. The emphasis on educational…

This paper analyzes the philosophy and goal strategies of transition programs, focusing on criteria for success, needs of the disabled, training of personnel, staffing, client controls, the pre-transition school environment, the adult transition environment, and integration into adult society. Several recommendations for improved transition…

Relates the experience of the staff of an aquaculture outreach program in Northeast Thailand in implementing an English for special purposes program. By actively involving learners in both the needs analysis and program design, teachers were able to adapt the program content to the requirements of the students. (15 references) (JL)

Examines the impact of program design on the development of research-based practice models. The concept of program design is reduced to elements that can be examined for their reliability, validity, relevance, and internal consistency. (Author/RWB)

Issues underlying current debate about language learning and teaching are discussed and categorized: views of language learning, views of language, program design, methodology, and psychological factors. It is suggested that educators are justifiably concerned with catering to students' varied needs, wants, and learning styles. (MSE)

The article presents key demographic facts and trends to guide long range planning by institutions of higher education. Effects on future enrollments of such trends as increased ethnic diversity are identified. Consequently, trustees are encouraged to support structural flexibility in programs of study and changes in the direction of increased…

There are many reasons for implementing a course in parenting education in the schools. Among them are: (1) In the past decade, premarital sex among teenage girls has risen from 30 to 50 percent; (2) One child of every five is born to teenage parents and 94 percent of these teenagers keep their babies; and (3) 90 percent of teenage mothers drop…

This document presents the view that for teaching and learning written language, teachers and students in bilingual education programs must have autonomy and must be able to appropriately account for local conditions. Upper-level government policies should be broad, non-specific, and linked to appropriate general goals. Diverse and complex local…

Evaluations of national prevention programs have found that they are not successful in reducing or preventing drug abuse. Local context must drive the design and development of prevention programs. Context is essential for success, and stereotypes concerning rural areas should be avoided. Local prevention efforts ought to be driven by sound…

This discussion of distance education needs from the point of view of the adult student focuses on learner needs. It is suggested that these needs will be met through improvement in program design procedures, increased student support through advising and guidance, and greater cooperation between existing educational agencies. (LRW)