Literature indicates that sociolinguists and educationists often claim multilingual practice and Africanizing and Indigenizing education will jeopardize national unity and social cohesion. Such claims delay the implementation of decolonization policies and the transformation of the curriculum under false assumptions. However, research reveals many…

Discusses opposing tendencies in the interpretation of Western Civilization. Describes the expanded definition that includes Byzantine and Islamic cultures as heirs of the Greco-Roman cultures. Suggests that a limited definition of Western culture will facilitate a problems approach, emphasize diversity among cultures, and integrate the classical…

This document discusses the roles of secondary schools, two-year colleges, and the upper level university in the University of Wisconsin System. Because of close ties with the host communities, Wisconsin's two-year institutions are uniquely situated to function as community resources. The paper discusses the advantages of a collaborative…

Defines assessment as finding out where the problems are in a program for the purpose of eliminating them. Presents a method for developing a formal assessment plan in history including principles of assessment, program goals, and objectives. Suggests determining what is already done and what further assessment methods are desired. (DK)

Reviews criticism of history instruction and historical knowledge in the United States since 1939. Contends that critics have shared almost identical concerns during that period. Suggests that, although efforts must continually be made to strengthen history instruction, the "crisis" in history is ephemeral and usually linked to…

As suggested by a Colorado Academic Library Master Plan developed in 1982, a statewide conference that brought together academicians and librarians was held to explore the role of academic libraries in the information society. People came in teams of three from institutions and included library directors, academic vice presidents, and faculty…

Offers conclusions of research examining the U.S. history knowledge of 263 elementary education majors. Reports poor performance for the students. Suggests that the students have a greater understanding of more recent historical events than of earlier U.S. history. Argues that knowledge of history is essential in understanding the world and…

Describes development of qualifying examinations in English and Welsh secondary schools. Evaluates forms and quality of testing in history. Presents suggestions by experts and changes made in England and Wales over 21-year period. Finds that most problems stemmed from desires to cover long periods of time while providing the depth of coverage…

Presents results of a survey of students' favorite middle and high school courses. Reports that the greatest disparity between most and least favorite subject was recorded for history. Concludes that overall, history was viewed positively by a wider margin than any other subject. Suggests that, although students like history, teachers must…

Describes the development of a history assessment test by Northeast Missouri State University (Kirksville) faculty. Discusses content, problems with design and cooperation, and theories of assessment testing. Includes sample questions demonstrating the cube plan, a technique that involves using a single question to measure three learning…

"Chronicle of Higher Education" presents an abundant source of news and information for college and university faculty members and administrators. This June 4, 2004 issue of "Chronicle of Higher Education" includes the following articles: (1) "What Has Happened to Historical Literacy?" (Rabb, Theodore K.); (2)…

Discusses the lack of teacher training provided for teaching assistants in history departments. Argues that emphasis on research and publication is misplaced because most new Ph.D.s will be teaching rather than publishing. Urges teacher training to prepare graduate students for their chosen profession and to improve undergraduate education. (DK)

This document reports on the "Great Migration" project at Harvard University that brought together scholars and teachers to study the roots, processes, and results of African Americans' urban migration during the period from 1900-1939. The primary purpose of the project was to enhance teachers' scholarly understanding of this aspect of…

Reports on a study of 93 McMaster University (Ontario) sophomore history students about their secondary school preparation in history. Finds that most respondents felt comfortable about their high school education, but a significant number were uncomfortable with their preparation for tutorial work, notetaking, and essay writing. (CFR)

Maintains that the National History Standards are a collaboration among classroom teachers, scholars, and curriculum specialists. Discusses the process used to develop the history standards. Asserts that the most contentious issue was the treatment of western civilization in the presentation of historical criteria. (CFR)