Compares advantages and disadvantages of centralized and decentralized control in Soviet public schools. Recognizes that centralization concentrates the forces, funds, and available resources necessary for maximum achievement. Suggests that decentralization of administration can be optimized by delegating rights, duties, and responsibilities to…

Reports on a study of 120 (60 boys, 60 girls) middle school students in Bophuthatswana on the relation of academic achievement to self-concept and locus of control. Finds that measures of extraversion, neuroticism, and psychoticism are related negatively to school achievement. (CFR)

Discusses the perceived immunity of gifted children to social adjustment problems. Reports the findings of a study of the issue. Concludes that some gifted students, particularly girls, are highly susceptible to crises of self-esteem, alienation, anxiety, and locus of control. Suggests preventive guidance to assist such children in developing…

This paper presents a study that assessed whether attributional retraining is an effective method for enhancing academic achievement in at-risk college students. Attributional retraining was provided to college students (N=198) who had previously performed either poorly or well on a test. Attributional retraining and previous performance (low or…

This paper presents a study that examined the effect of an attribution induction on students' performance on a subsequent achievement test. The study was conducted to determine whether an instructor might inculcate desirable attributions as part of a regular classroom interaction and thus improve academic performance in at-risk students. College…