False premises upon which many legislated programs for minimal competency testing are based are identified and discussed. (JT)

A program that is used to assist students in overcoming the deficiencies in basic skills in mathematics without making major changes in existing mathematics programs is described. (JT)

Replies to the immediately preceding article. The author contends that the cause of incompetence resides more in the overall ambience of disaffection in the nation than in the schools. (Author/IRT)

The basics must be taught, but a school which teaches the basics alone would not educate every student to his or her fullest potential. Allowing the "basics-only" advocates to restrict school curriculum would mean shortchanging many children with diverse needs. (Author/SJL)

A distinction is made between the terms basic skills and minimum competence. The impact of minimum competency requirements is discussed through its affect on the scope and structure of current mathematics curricula, and the assessment instruments needed for valid measures of mathematical competence. (JT)

Mathematical literacy for all students is discussed. A positive approach is suggested, to help mathematics educators determine how demands for programs to develop basic skills are to be met. (JT)

Data from tests of basic mathematical competencies given in 1950, 1965, and 1975 are discussed. Courses successful in providing a foundation of basic skills are noted. (JT)

Evaluation of student minimal competency should be based partly on national concerns, partly on local concerns, and partly on the needs of the learner. Evaluation must be built into all levels. (JMF)

This study examined the curricular validity of the New Jersey Basic Skills test, a minimum competency test administered to all public school students in grades 3, 6, 9, and 11 to measure basic skills in reading and mathematics. Based on examinations of a Modified Caution Index, there were differences in the usual response patterns for both reading…

Competency based education (CBE) programs can increase pupil motivation, provide the opportunity to individualized instruction, and enable the school to communicate better to the pupil and the public what pupils are learning in school, according to the author. But he lists eight traps that lie hidden in the CBE movement, including further…

This review of recent research on minimum competency testing requirements focuses on the impact of such requirements on school curricula and on the processes of selecting which competencies are to be tested, determining cutoff scores, and ensuring test validity and reliability. (JBM)

This paper describes Oregon's experiences with state performance requirements. It explains that these requirements cover three areas: budgeting on a program basis, providing a schooling environment designed to meet student needs through a systematic management process, and setting learning performance standards for students, including graduation…

This collection of conference presentations includes "The Curriculum Field--A View" by Alice Miel, "The State of the Curriculum: Frills, Fads, and Alternatives" by Robert S. Zais, "Lifelong Learning: Significance for Curriculum Development" by Norman V. Overly, "Education of the Gifted and Talented: A Look Around…

An annotated bibliography on minimum competency testing is arranged by subtopics: overview; basic skills; compensatory education; competencies; cost effectiveness; curriculum; district programs; graduation requirements; handicapped students; legal aspects; readiness; reading; writing; state programs; teacher education; tests; math; and testing.…

This report presents a comprehensive plan to improve teaching and learning in New York State's public and private schools. After surveying school improvement efforts since 1977, characteristics of New York education, and the state Board of Regents' recent goals review, the report states the regents' goals underlying this action plan. These…