A literature review identified three perspectives on empowerment: self-efficacy derived from individual action and psychology; mutual empowerment through interpersonal relationships; and social empowerment, the removal of social, economic, and legal obstacles to individual influence. However, many community leadership education programs fall short…

Alabama has serious economic and social problems, and the situation is worse in rural areas and small towns than in urban areas. The solutions to the problems of small communities must be found within the communities themselves. Sustainable communities are those that aggressively manage their destiny, based on a realistic and well planned vision.…

If effects of education reforms in the future are similar to effects of education reforms in the past, it may take between 65 and 780 years to close racial achievement gaps in math and science (Taylor, in preparation). From a review of the literature, I found that educational reforms, directed toward eliminating achievement differences associated…

When two New Orleans Elementary Schools were integrated in 1960, Whites left the school and racial violence occurred. Two reasons for this are discussed in the context of books written about the incidents. Desegregation failed, and the schools are still segregated. (VM)

Community care-givers can be identified by social service agencies through their visibility in helping others in the community. Professionals must be aware of community needs through the continued identification of indigenous care-givers and the integration of these helpers into the service delivery system. (Author)

As local pressures mount and state resources dwindle, intermediary organizations are emerging throughout Latin America. Although theoretically enabling people at the grass roots to participate in their own development and reap the benefits of their labor, the costs and tensions are often not worth the burden. Explores the quandaries that new…

Analyzes role of "familiar outsider," the "transplant" reformer who rejects personal power while aiding community. Focuses on four outsiders assisting Virginia town's developing commission. Details relationship and leadership problems among commission, technical assistant, and community leaders during development of sewing…

This paper examines the views of economic and higher education leaders concerning the potential socio-economic importance to Americans of establishing continuing links between communities, colleges, and universities, and international students and alumni. A literature review is presented that examines: (1) the past relationship and importance of…

Through a chronological review of the writings of Howard Y. McClusky, this paper examines the concept of the community council, an integrating agency which unites community resources and organizations for the provision of adult education. After introductory material discussing McClusky's pioneering work in the field of community education, the…

There is increasing evidence that American schools are doing a poor job of preparing students for the work force. Several studies have concluded that North Carolina has the worst school-to-work educational training system in the industrialized world. America's educators still have not learned how to deal with the problems that poverty creates for…

Four different assumptions about the nature of rural education govern major strategies to reform its deficiencies: rural education is a problem because it is not urban; some small isolated schools are "necessarily existent"; small schools are desirable because of flexibility and responsiveness; and educational problems are independent of…

This set of training materials was developed for a nationwide prevention education program designed to develop new citizen awareness of the importance of making sound, personal decisions leading to the reduction of drinking problems and alcoholism. There are three packages of prevention education materials presented: Reflections in a Glass, for…

Williamsburg County, South Carolina, is an almost entirely rural area near the coast. Although nearly 50% of the population is under 21, there has been a sharp decline in population since its high in 1950. The outmigration, prounounced for black youth, is caused by a lack of industrial opportunities, although there is slow, steady industrial…

This report examines recent qualitative and quantitative research to determine how school-related violence was both measured and perceived among various social groups. It reviews sources that addresses such questions as: What is school-related violence? What do statistics reveal about school-related violence? How diverse is public opinion…

This report explores issues related to expanding the roles of schools and youth in rural community development. It is suggested that rural schools, when working in partnership with local leaders and residents, can have a positive impact on community viability. The report is based on a project involving a partnership between a local school system…