The effects that principals' instructional leadership has on school achievement/outcomes were examined using questionnaire data from the principal and at least 4 teachers from 31 elementary schools and 25 high schools in California. Achievement outcomes can be predicted based on teachers' and principals' perceptions of instructional leadership.…

These six chapters examine Thailand's efforts in the 1980s to improve the quality of primary (elementary) education. Thailand's experience in implementing improvement strategies within cost constraints may offer insights to other developing nations. Sample surveys, cost analyses, and case studies are the basis of research reported. (SLD)

Traces the development of the principles and practices of Total Quality Management (TQM) at El Camino College, in California. Discusses institutional resistance to change and the need for careful implementation analysis and constituent group involvement. Includes a nine-item bibliography of theoretical and descriptive works. (MAB)

This article reviews societal demands for increased accountability and social responsibility by academic medicine. The Association of American Medical Colleges is urged to prepare more generalist physicians and assure better access to health care services. A "National System of Regional Medical Care" is proposed. (Author/DB)

Misunderstanding of basic principles of the government-university relationship is discussed, and a method for developing a model policy for administering federally funded research is presented. The model policy would help funding agencies and institutions cope with regulations, issues of authority and accountability, communication, and…

Options are presented for accountability in Chapter 1 schools and identification of low-performing schools. Two options are suggested that could move Chapter 1 toward more local control or toward more national control. In either case, the shortcomings of using normal curve equivalent gains on standardized tests should be recognized. (SLD)

The effects of educational reform policies in Texas were studied as they relate to teacher burnout. A survey was mailed to 3,000 teachers. In all, 700 teachers responded, and interviews were conducted with about 120 of them. Teachers experienced considerable emotional exhaustion, and the effects of paperwork were significant. (SLD)

To close the Anglo/ethnic minority achievement gap, 11 education and community leaders formed the El Paso Collaborative for Academic Excellence. Two goals were paramount: ensuring success among K-16 youngsters in area educational institutions and ensuring all high-school graduates' readiness for college. The program achieved impressive results.…

This case study of the commercialized teaching profession in Costa Rican higher education urges circumspection; the term "efficient and productive change" camouflages the state-sanctioned commodification of the instructional enterprise. Courses are becoming proprietary courseware, machinery for selling intellectual capital is emerging,…

Focuses on the Kentucky higher education accountability model, designed to provide a systematic evaluation of the quality and effectiveness of Kentucky's 14 community colleges. Offers coordinator perceptions of model's effectiveness. (YKH)

This article reports perceptions of a first-year teacher of students with learning disabilities. First-year challenges are described, as well as views on assessment, accountability, and inclusion. Recommendations are made for new teachers and steps that teacher educators, school administrators, and experienced teachers can take to ensure the…

A youngster failing to thrive in one environment needs an alternative learning situation. Research shows that small, personalized schools offering authentic, engaging curricula are essential for reaching unsuccessful learners. The test-score craze can be contained by publicizing other numbers regarding consequences: absence rates, dropouts,…

Discussion of quality assurance in colleges and universities looks at theories and definitions of quality; four approaches to quality (traditional peer review, the assessment-and-outcomes movement, the Total Quality Management movement, and accountability and performance indicator reporting); the moral and ethical dimensions of quality; and ideals…

Used alone, mandated standards and tests provide a dangerously narrow approach to accountability. Superintendents' proper response is layering and realignment-working to improve standards' validity and contribution to school improvement. Superintendents should provide leadership that increases schools' adaptability and spurs environmental changes.…

A teacher of adjudicated students wonders: why teach? The money is not good. The call for accountability is based on the misperception that teachers perform poorly. The work is stressful and complicated by imposition of standards that don't address all aspects of a good education. He reasons that he can't find anything more rewarding than working…