A study of the education systems in Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States yielded data on 35 variables. The data were used to compile averages defined as "world class standards" in education. In world-class schools, the children are motivated and ready to learn, and…

Lessons designed to prepare students for standardized tests are replacing lessons designed to help children think. Instead of national standardized test scores, schools should use local criterion-referenced tests; take a baseline measurement; compare test scores with districts having similar demographics; compare students, not grade levels; and…

A consortium of Chicago-area school districts obtained special permission to administer the Third International Mathematics and Science Survey (TIMSS) to consortium students so it could evaluate how its students stacked up against their international peers. TIMSS officials and the U.S. Department of Education are encouraging other districts and…

An introduction of microcomputers into schools has exacerbated the gap in educational opportunity between rich and poor students, according to several recent studies. Various aspects of this problem are discussed, and six suggestions are provided for promoting equal access to computers. (TE)

Reviews the year's most decisive school developments as they relate to the publication "A Nation at Risk" and examines areas largely untouched by recent reforms. Includes a chart comparing all 50 states in 15 education-related categories and reports on some recent reforms that could become trends. (IW)