Maintains that a loss-gain hypothesis (a negative impression gives way to a positive one) is a more powerful indicator and incentive for future friendship than an opposite sequence (positive to negative). Both of these, however, were eclipsed by a positive-positive interaction as a determinant of interpersonal attraction. (MJP)

Differential item functioning (DIF) methodology for revealing sources of item difficulty and performance characteristics of different groups was explored. A total of 150 Scholastic Aptitude Test items and 132 Graduate Record Examination general test items were analyzed. DIF was evaluated for males and females and Blacks and Whites. (SLD)

The hiring and retention of foreign nationals in colleges and universities are discussed, focusing on immigration laws and requirements, tax regulations, institutional responsibility, and sanctions on employers for noncompliance. Employment of students and exchange visitors is included in the discussion. (MSE)

Recent trends in higher education and society, particularly in California, are seen as threatening progress of Latino Americans. Issues discussed include public attitudes about affirmative action, anti-immigrant legislation and sentiment, opposition to Latino studies, demographic trends, stereotypes of minorities, and the "adobe ceiling"…

A study compared the effectiveness of two methods of second language instruction, video-based and text-based, during one academic year of college-level French instruction. Experimental and control groups each had 14 subjects. Results showed some difference in achievement in listening, and little in reading, speaking, writing, or grammar. (MSE)

The review of judicial cases and decisions concerning higher education in 1991 looks at trends and developments in litigation addressing institutional powers, the First Amendment, tort liability, institutional contracts, immunities, access to records and meetings, funding, employment, adverse academic and disciplinary decisions, discrimination…

A survey of 1,720 students in 71 university science laboratory classes in the United States, Canada, England, Australia, Israel, and Nigeria investigated student and teacher perceptions of dimensions of classroom environment (student cohesiveness, open-endedness, integration, rule clarity, material environment). Results and the utility of the…

A survey of 1,234 McGill University (Canada) students (entrants, graduates, alumni, and voluntary withdrawals) in a management continuing education program investigated the anticipated benefits in career development, fulfillment of imposed requirements, personal development, networking, attainment of knowledge, and personal fulfillment.…

Examines factors associated with persistence to a second term for 796 first time, two-year college students. Demographic variables correlated with low persistence were taking nondegree courses only, enrolling part time, working full time, and being over age 40. The only academic factor related to low persistence was a first term grade point…

Examines factors contributing to decline in African-American teachers in southeast Georgia through interviews with 285 African-American elementary school and secondary school teachers and 27 additional African-American subjects, largely college students (16). Reasons only 20 percent would enter teaching if they could start careers again are…

The experience of King's College (Pennsylvania) in integrating resource-based learning and information literacy into its curriculum shows that such an effort is an evolutionary process. Lessons learned about faculty interest, use of staff time, the need for ongoing change, technological change, and assessment may help other institutions. (MSE)

Detecting differential item functioning (DIF) on test items constructed to favor 1 group over another was investigated on parameter estimates from 2 item response theory-based computer programs--BILOG and LOGIST--using data for 1,000 White and 1,000 Black college students. Use of prior distributions and marginal-maximum a posteriori estimation is…

Student activists of the 1960s participated in different student movements with distinct racial and national identities. The causes and consequences of racial segmentation that made white students and students of color behave differently are examined. Even the abrupt decline of campus movements in the 1970s reflects profound racial segmentation.…

Presents teaching strategies used in an educational foundations course that helps preservice teachers view themselves as part of a culturally diverse society. Describes an assignment that involves students researching their family history to heighten sensitivity to the cultural struggle of all ethnic groups. (NL)

Reports results of an ethnographic study to determine what physics students consider important in their transition from high school to college. Themes emerging from the interviews that suggest ways to ease transition include when transition begins, self-identity, student and teacher work, teachers, and student responsibility. (MDH)