Argues that the World Bank Education Sector Policy Paper (1980) presents a confused and simplistic view of the role of language in education. Advocates a more research-based approach, including cost-benefit analysis of language policy options. Part of a theme issue on the Policy Paper and Third World development. (SJL)

The aim of this paper is to attempt a comparative analysis, in a historical context, of attempts to move education policy for Maoris in New Zealand and Indians in the United States away from an assimilationist model and to demonstrate the relevance of this comparison to contemporary developments. (Author)

Describes three important phenomena of European education: the great expansion of secondary and higher education since World War II, the rapid internationalization of education, and issues of language. Discusses implications of these issues for comparative education as a field of study. (SV)

This paper examines educational policies in certain culturally plural South East Asian societies in relation to hypotheses concerning differences in educational policies resulting from the threat felt by the dominant elite and the effects of educational and national language policies on the assimilation or alienation of different ethnic groups.…