Scientists have long recognized the value of having statistical data to measure the scope and vitality of education, research, and workforce development in their fields. Such data support evidence-based policy discussions in professional and governmental forums. Since 1982, the National Science Board has been required by law to publish…

Reviews the development of educational statistical indicators, particularly as applied to national and cross-national issues of education, examining how an internationally cooperative effort reversed an earlier pattern of failure. The paper focuses on: history of social indicators; growth and institutionalization of international data collections;…

Following a brief discussion on the concept of teacher incentives, several types of teacher incentive research are described in relation to the Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS) of the National Center for Education Statistics. Original national data from SASS relating to teacher incentive pay programs are reported. The three types of studies of…

The article examines trends in statistical data and educational policies in Israel since 1948 toward students with handicaps. Considered are relevant legislation and procedures, the special education population in 1985/6, and the role of the family, community, and society. (DB)

Explores types of information which might be used in making decisions about the quality of education. Presents methods by which this information may be utilized to make decisions at various levels in the educational enterprise. Urges that quantitative techniques for gathering information be linked with decisions concerning the quality of…

The development, implementation, and evaluation of a policy to increase student attendance in Albemarle High School, Virginia, is described here. Implemented in 1976, the policy called for mandatory grade reduction for students with large numbers of unexcused absences. The program evaluation revealed that the basic objective of improving student…

This six-step model examines the role of six potential participants in the educational policy formation process. The six steps are proposal development, executive recommendation (performed by the superintendent), legislative action (by the school board), supplementary change, implementation, and review. The six potential participants in this…

This yearbook contains information on federal policy actions, state policy, important reports, statistical data on exceptional students served and personnel employed; and directory listings of key offices, officials, and organizations concerned with special education. Generally, the yearbook covers reports issued from July 1987 through June 1988.…

The elementary and secondary education data collection system has undergone a major transformation over the past decade, becoming a coordinated, cohesive system. This report reviews what the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) can and cannot say about education in the United States for kindergarten through grade 12. Six issue areas…

Based on the first survey of adult education in the public school system to be conducted by the U.S. Office of Education since 1958, the findings reported here show that adult education is growing faster than any other level of education and that there are more students in public adult education (defined here to include elementary and secondary…

Five agencies of the Public Health Service (PHS) joined with PHS Hispanic employees and other Hispanic health specialists to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Week by critically examining health issues of particular relevance to Hispanics. The first day the forum sought to define, from an Hispanic perspective, issues relating to health statistics,…