The Paraeducator Portfolio Assessment process is a method for paraeducators to meet the Title I requirements of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001. The Portfolio Assessment allows paraeducators to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and their ability to assist with instruction in the same areas,…

This analysis defends the proposition that fewer competencies should be used in the organizing structure for teacher education programs. An objectives-oriented teacher education approach is described and three minimal competencies for such a strategy isolated, along with alternative assessment tactics for each. (Author/JA)

Describes the five-year effort of the Allentown, Pennsylvania School District to develop districtwide final examinations to test the mastery of course objective in its secondary schools. (FL)

Examines three forces affecting the minimum competency testing movement: the reluctance of professionals to accept it, court cases, and the question of how it should be applied to the handicapped student. (FL)

Discusses problems in designing and interpreting research on the effects of topics used in essay exams, particularly minimum competency exams. Reviews current research on the effects of topics and their presentation. (HTH)

Rebuts the article on minimum competency testing by Diana Pullin in the September 1981 "Kappan." Argues that the competency testing program in Florida is a powerful force for motivating improvement. (Author/WD)

Lists proposed competencies to be used in a certification program for material design and production professionals. Six production areas are presented, within which skill must be demonstrated in at least one, as well as activities to be performed in the areas of communication problems, message design, and media production facility administration.…

Annotates such recently published sources of information as surveys of current practices and general discussions, describes the 1979 NIE (National Institute of Education) Minimum Competency Study (report to be published), and lists the addresses of organizations that collect information, develop their own tests, and publish useful studies and…

The current status of minimal competency tests for special education students is discussed with particular emphasis on the legal implications. (SBH)

Health education curriculum has responded to the need to include teacher preparation experiences in death education. While death education is gaining wide acceptance, little effort has been made to guarantee quality instruction. A list of competencies are provided for the edification of the effective death educator. (JN)

Three-fourths of the states have mandated some form of testing. Problems are discussed and practical recommendations about implementation are offered. (Author/MLF)

A survey of teacher education institutions indicates that only five of the 17 curriculum areas investigated are significantly affected by the implementation of state minimum competency testing programs. (Author/IRT)

Outlines essential competencies which will help content area teachers effectively incorporate reading variables into instructional differentiation. (HOD)

The minimum competency testing issue raises basic questions--who controls public education and what should be taught? (Author)

A criterion-based strategy to evaluate student performance in computer application courses requires modification of evaluation tools with each technological change. Students benefit by not competing for grades and there is more consistency in student assessment across courses and semesters. (Author/JOW)