Twenty-nine Alabama optometric practices were studied using an optometrist survey, one-week patient flow analysis, and audit of patient records. Results indicate some special facets of the rural practices that may require a different kind of educational preparation. (MSE)

Studied questionnaires distributed to counselors in a variety of settings throughout Oregon. Results indicate licensure was an important consideration for 87 percent of the respondents, with general support for a licensure bill by 77 percent of the respondents. Training beyond a master's degree was the preferred level of educational training…

Describes a study conducted in North Carolina to determine which communications competencies should be included in the English curriculum for vocational students. The survey participants, 157 English teachers, 127 administrators, and 153 vocational teachers, ranked "listening carefully to directions from supervisor" as the most important…

A State of Washington study identified activities which engaged vo-ag teachers during summer months (the extended portion of their contracts) and the amount of time devoted to those activities. Collected data are shown in tables and discussed. Average supervision time was 20 percent; the authors recommend 50 percent for true accountability.…

Describes a research study that investigated the impact of negotiated master contracts for teachers on the functions of instructional supervisors. (JG)

A discussion of a study completed at Oklahoma State University whose purpose was to examine those segments which are basic to the summer program of vocational agriculture. The methods, findings, and implications are included. (HD)

Discusses the implications for teacher training of the findings of a study of junior college freshman English programs in Illinois. (DD)

Surveys Texas teachers and principals regarding new basal readers implemented during the 1993/94 school year. Reveals that most respondents were pleased with the new basal adoption, felt the treatment of skills was acceptable, and were satisfied with the anthologies' literature selections. (SR)

Perceptions of the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) process for children with disabilities were assessed in a statewide (North Carolina) survey of approximately 600 child service coordinators. Divergent viewpoints about the usefulness and process of developing the IFSP emerged, depending on the program with which the child service…

The article presents an interim report on the progress of 39 mentally retarded students in a supported competitive employment training program implemented in 5 school systems and 3 geographical areas of Virginia. Among findings were that 74 percent of the students remained in their jobs longer than 6 months. (DB)

Uses survey responses of 473 teachers, principals, and staff development chairs in rural Oklahoma school districts to indicate the level of implementation of 38 research-based staff development practices that define the Readiness, Planning, Training, Implementation, and Maintenance stages of staff development. Lists the 38 practices and tabulates…

A March 1988 survey concerning the textual materials used and liaisons existing between secondary schools and universities is reported. The university survey focused on a variety of first-year programs, how language departments accommodate students with varying accumulated hours of French instruction, and faculty familiarity with provincial…

At the aggregate level it appears that the state share of public school financing has shifted from parity to dominance. However, there is substantial diversity among states. Through a synthesis of the literature on fiscal federalism, political culture, state politics, and public policy, explanations are offered for this interstate divergence.…

A survey of Iowa school districts found that the provision of special educational services and other aspects of gifted education was highly correlated with the availability of related inservice teacher education. (MSE)