The history of French immersion instruction in Canada is reviewed, and the literature relating to that history is examined. The first chapter offers three distinct perspectives on the emergence of French immersion: (1) chronological; (2) phenomenological and pragmatic; and (3) methodological and pedagogic. Also in the first chapter, the immersion…

A review of literature concerning the effectiveness of bilingual education programs consists of three sections, each containing descriptions of one or more studies and evaluations of the studies' significance. The first examines broad studies of the factors promoting or affecting bilingual education program success. The second section looks at…

A discussion of communication within the field of language sciences looks at the existing system of communication, noting some of the major problems and outlining some special and strategic problems facing those who design future information systems in this area. The report begins by describing the language sciences community and its communication…

A discussion of the state of bilingual education in the Pacific islands administered by the United States (Guam, American Samoa, and Micronesia) begins with background information on the patterns of education and language use in the region and in each separate area. The current status of bilingual education programs and support projects is…

Suggests the task of each institution is to differentiate accurately its commuter subpopulations in order to develop programs and services that meet their needs. Support services need to take into account the heterogeneity of the population in terms of who they are and why they want to attend. (KS)

Focuses on recent research examining the relationships between family satisfaction and job satisfaction, the impact of work on family, and the influence of family on work, with special emphasis on job performance and productivity. It concludes by drawing program implications for career development specialists and suggesting needed family support…

Notes that while gifted students have characteristics that suggest superior reading ability, not all of them become capable readers. Proposes a teaching program that is different in content, method, and pacing to help these children reach their potential. (FL)

A recent report by the U.S. Department of Education on the effectiveness of bilingual education programs reflects numerous issues that are at the very core of bilingual education. Two of these issues and their implications are discussed: the purpose of bilingual education and the nature of bilingual education programs. (Author/NQA)

Reviews research on the characteristics of the dropout (relationships, socioeconomic status, attitudes, behavior, school performance); the economic and social costs of dropping out; and current efforts for dropout assistance or dropout prevention. (SJL)

A literature review identified characteristics of transition programs that were described in 33 refereed journal articles between 1986-1999. Results confirm that students with more severe learning and behavioral difficulties receive inadequate transition services; programs emphasize employment competencies over living skills; and there are few…

Describes and reviews the Dutch National Action Programme (NAP) on Foreign Languages, instituted in anticipation of the demands of the 1992 Single European Market. The increasing demand for foreign languages is confirmed, some shortcomings of the current program regarding French and German language learning are identified, and recommendations for…

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)

Explains the preexperience, experience, and postexperience phases of seven teaching styles: dictated, prescribed, directed, consulted, interpreted, automated, and shared. The most effective and appropriate style suits the situation, fits the preferences of leader and clients, and results in appropriate client independence. Although no single best…

This study explores the impact of an alternative teacher preparation program development from the "inside out" or through the voices of second career teachers, known as "Career Switchers," at a mid-size state university. The major objective of this study was to probe into their perceptions to inform program development with reporting framed in…

A discussion of the literacy education needs of the Hispanic community in the United States provides a profile of the Hispanic population and offers a plan of action for educational programming. At 7 million, the illiterate Hispanic population comprises one-third of functionally illiterate Americans. This subgroup is diverse, with as much as half…