A review of both institutional theories and recent empirical studies employing institutional arguments reveals great diversity. Different definitions and explanations for organizations and their structures are employed and various causal arguments subsumed under this general perspective. Two primary actors and shapers of institutional environments…

Charles Carter's views on higher education are discussed, and the educational history of the university as an institution is examined. Carter views universities as a diverse set of institutions linked in a comprehensive framework to provide flexible and fair access to higher learning in the sciences and the arts. (RM)

Levels of skill in the use of computers are defined. "Computer literacy" means a fundamental ability of computers. "Computer competent" implies being able to use the computer as a tool--professionally. "Computer fluent" implies knowing several computer languages, and "computer geniuses" are those who change the field. (MLW)

The article presents a step by step refutation of criticisms made by Hans Jellen in a presentation critical of J. Renzulli's conception of the gifted, of the Enrichment Triad Model, and the Revolving Door Identification Model. (Author/CL)

The difference between estimation (the mental skill of making an educated guess) and approximation (finding a result precise enough for a specific purpose) is discussed. (MNS)

The paper examines several common definitions of giftedness and talent, with particular emphasis on the models proposed by J. Renzulli and S. Cohn. A differentiation between giftedness and talent is suggested, and several factors which can act as catalysts for the actualization of giftedness in specific talents are discussed, particularly…

Discusses the different ways theorists and researchers define "reading." (FL)

The author criticizes an article defending the concept of learning disabilities and points out methodological concerns. He asserts that the term has not only not reduced ambiguities and inconsistencies in the definitions but has increased competition for diminishing federal and state support. (CL)

Illustrates kinds of intelligence tests, discussing factors indicating intelligence: genetics, reaction time, latency and amplitude, and variability. Lists the advantages and disadvantages of the intelligence tests mentioned. (CI)

Discusses conceptual differences between "culture,""social system," and "society." Suggests ways that a unique concept of culture can become meaningful in cross-cultural psychological research. (GC)

"Culture" needs no sharpening. It works well as a global term, designating the many diverse material and ideational phenomena that social scientists traditionally perceive as culture. Pleas and attempts to define culture anew, however well-meaning and creative, are irrelevant to the conduct of cross-cultural research. (Author)

Discusses techniques used by reading researchers to derive "operational definitions" of reading phenomena. (FL)

Contends that the terms "telecommunications,""broadcasting," and "mass communication" subsume journalism as but one element. Illustrates differences by the way the terms are treated legally. (PD)

The authors assert that progress in conceptualizing learning disabilities and related intervention procedures is dependent on systematic, consistent, and educationally grounded theory, and that each practitioner should adopt a system and use it consistently. A cognitive-field model is illustrated and its use as a foundation for educating LD…

The triarchic theory of intellectual giftedness asserts that intelligence must be understood in terms of three aspects: the internal world of the individual, the external world of the individual, and the interface between these two as it unfolds through experience. The theory is explained through the profiles of three graduate students. (Author/CL)