Addresses the identity politics of modern communication and information technologies. These technologies embody social relations of domination and dependence, especially in their construction of specific forms of human subjectivity. The political implications of these construction systems are explored. Six recommendations for political work in…

Examines the effects of social class in the political socialization of education in relation to participation in collective action. Analyzes data from a national survey of high school students. Concludes that political efficacy, student organizational leadership, college preparatory study, and urban school attendance increase the likelihood of…

Addresses the following: (1) what recent literature reveals about overt racial conflict in higher education between whites and African Americans; (2) how different factors influence this conflict; (3) an extensive listing of racism incidents; (4) rising economic anxiety and the nation's political climate; and (5) suggestions for alleviating the…

A national study of 82 college outcome measures on 25,000 students from 1985-89 looked at the relationship of outcomes, institutional environment (emphasis on institutional, student, or faculty diversity), and campus activism. Results suggest emphasis on diversity in all forms is beneficial to student development and also promotes student…

Because of rapid growth and social/economic change, higher education systems in Europe experienced two great shocks: the 1968 student revolt and contraction in enrollments and resources. The result is a radical reshaping of bases for policymaking and planning. Problems emerging include economically determined objectives, indecisive curricula,…

Because of the increasing Hispanic population, more colleges and universities are offering programs in Chicano studies. Reasons for the slow evolution of such programs include lack of university commitment to ethnic studies, lack of qualified faculty, and racism. However, students have the power to demand the offering of more Chicano studies…

A former professor, current professional organization administrator, and scholar discusses the nature of changes occurring today in higher education, focusing on the contemporary academic climate, politicization of academic life, and what is happening to general education and the liberal arts. Topics discussed include cultural and ethnic diversity…

University of California, Berkeley students and faculty from the ethnic-studies program protested budget cuts and faculty losses. The resulting agreement includes creation of a new ethnic-studies research center, establishment of a multicultural student center, and creation of eight faculty positions, five of them tenure-track. Activists call it…

Timber operators, ranchers, corporate timberland owners, environmentalists, state government, and local schools in rural northern California formed an alliance to save the local salmon from extinction. The community's struggle toward consensus was an attempt to abandon the polarization that arises from power struggles. Local nonprofessionals were…

The compelling ideas underlying the standards movement are being distorted by poor implementation and political opportunism. Higher standards will probably not affect the nation's already booming economy or close the white/minority achievement gap. An emerging rebellion, driven by negative testing consequences, is eroding political support.…

Longitudinal data on over 1,300 youths, 1965-73, indicate that their participation in the protests of that era was positively related to college attendance, academic achievement in high school, self-efficacy, parents' income and education, and parents' political participation, and to being male, black, urban, non-Southern, and not a fundamentalist…

Tests the effectiveness of a teacher education course designed to reduce teacher biases, increase their commitment to social justice, and entice them towards collaboration with community members. Results show a positive increase in all areas of focus except social activism. (GR)

Examines the applicability of two alternative theories of small-town politics to a case of Mexican American political mobilization in Woodburn, Oregon, where Mexican Americans comprised half the population. Discusses Mexican American attempts to promote a housing project for migrant workers and to pressure the school board to reflect Mexican…

Offers seven recommendations (with comments) for action involving school partnerships with families and communities: Involve and support teachers and principals, adopt democratic principles, reach out to parents, encourage parent activism, provide parents with opportunities for choice and voice, encourage and support increased family…

Describes a failed yearlong quest to desegregate Cleveland's schools that ended up unifying the city's black community and helping black Clevelanders understand the limitations of negotiation, direct action, boycotts, and the legal system in creating permanent change. Black residents turned to the political arena to realize the potential of black…