This proceedings document provides one to two page versions of papers presented on the theme of celebrating diversity in developmental education, focusing on the areas of research, administration and learning assistance, writing, reading, and mathematics. Papers include, among others: "Gender Differences in Variables Related to Academic…

This proceedings document focuses on research and program development in developmental education and instruction in mathematics, reading, and writing. Papers are: "Down in the Trenches: Tutors Learning about Learning" (Jace Condravy); "Expanding the Role of Developmental Education in Research Institutions" (Patricia Dwinell and others);…

The Fresh Start (FS) program was initiated at Gainesville College (GC), in Georgia, to target at-risk students and improve their overall academic performance and retention. The program provides immediate placement of students into remedial classes, academic support services, intrusive counseling, and long-term computerized tracking to assess…

This monograph presents seven papers on the research, and pedagogical aspects of developmental education and implications for a definition of developmental education. After an introductory paper by the editors, the papers are: (1) "The New Science: Connections with Developmental Education" (Dana D. Darby); (2) "Issues Affecting the Definition of…

This conference proceedings publication addresses issues in developmental education at the postsecondary level. Papers included are: "Developmental Studies Teachers to Retention Specialists: Assets, Not Liabilities" (Carol H. Bader); "Primary and Secondary Orientation Support for One Underrepresented Group" (Allen R. Barlow and Kerri Heavens);…

A study was conducted to ascertain whether a basic skills development program, an individualized, programmed laboratory experience in which students contracted to work toward a self-defined resolution of their skill deficiencies, would result in a measurable change in the self concept of high-risk students enrolled in the program at Essex…

This final report evaluates California State University's (CSU) Summer Bridge and Intensive Learning Experience (ILE) programs, which are remedial/developmental programs providing basic skills instruction, orientation, and advisement to entering CSU students at risk of dropping out. The underlying objective of both programs is to increase the…

This proceedings publication addresses issues in developmental education at the postsecondary level. Papers are: "Public Relations: Making Videos to Promote Your Program" (Carol H. Bader and Kathy Liles); "Winning Strategies Through Individualized Learning in the Success Center" (Deanna L. Culbertson and Phillip C. Johnson); "Implementing Holistic…

Comprehensive programs to enable students to acquire skills necessary for college work are discussed. It is suggested that developmental courses be supplements to regular academic courses. In starting a new developmental program, three factors are important: commitment of the school's faculty and administration to the program's success, adequate…

Asserts that almost all U.S. colleges and universities offer some form of developmental education, if one considers tutorial and learning assistance programs in addition to formal courses. Presents an historical analysis of developmental programs, stating that they, in some form, have been a part of postsecondary education since Harvard was…

Discusses criticisms of remedial courses and counters some with evidence from research. Describes the traditional approach to remedial-course delivery and explores alternatives, such as freshman seminars, supplemental instruction, paired courses, and critical-thinking instruction. Calls for a systematic relationship between assessment, advising,…

Cites three ERIC documents. The first describes the Guided Studies Program at Clackamas Community College (Oregon). The second focuses on developmental programs in higher education nationwide. The third provides the results of a national project to examine programs for the underprepared college students. (AYC)

Reports that developmental freshmen taking a one-credit remedial learning skills course did not receive grades significantly better or worse (either during or immediately after taking the course) than non-participating students. States that these results are consistent with other studies indicating that developmental freshmen need time to respond…

The presence of high-risk students has forced schools of nursing to analyze instructional processes and develop skills in helping students help themselves. Developmental programs increase student success without minimizing educational quality. Attention must be refocused from predictive selection to effective retention of candidates. (JOW)

This paper contains an overview of policy decisions being made at the state and national levels about learning assistance activities in higher education and developmental education. The principles driving those decisions are also outlined. Some policymakers want to fine the high schools from which under prepared students have graduated; others…