The director of a University of Virginia Arabic language program in Jordan discusses issues, sometimes unfamiliar, with which the administrator must deal. In addition to logistical and administrative tasks, in this context these include the role of women in the Arab university and students' questions about the universality of social values. (MSE)

Describes the minority internship program at the Bowling Green State University library from the intern's perspective. Highlights include working at various branch libraries as well as a public library; library staff orientation; committee work to promote multiculturalism; and personal assessment of the program. (LRW)

Asserts that decisions regarding textbook content China are political and determined by the central government. Reports on a study of 15 elementary and secondary geography textbooks published between 1948 and 1991. Finds that the image of the United States portrayed in these books has changed dramatically. (CFR)

Discusses the role of religious education in the future planning and implementation of South Africa's education system. Reviews the role of religion before 1990, particularly the Dutch Reformed Church. Concludes that the future of religious education in South Africa depends on the future of religion. (CFR)

Asserts that folktales from around the world can be used in the elementary social studies classroom to teach about cultural traits. Discusses types of folktales and recommends instructional procedures and classroom activities. Maintains that studying folktales can increase children's awareness of moral and social issues. (CFR)

Presents a five-hour simulation designed for secondary social studies students that focuses on the civil war in the former Yugoslavia. Describes necessary materials, a recommended time frame, and a five-day instructional plan. Includes data sheets about individual nations, focus questions, and individual role descriptions. (CFR)

Discussion of strategies that public libraries can use to better serve minority patrons focuses on Hispanic users. Topics addressed include defining the Hispanic community; hiring appropriate staff that speak Spanish; becoming involved in community groups; outreach programs; and cataloging foreign language materials. (Contains 13 references.) (LRW)

Reports on a study of 39 females and minority females and males in British educational institutions who achieved senior management positions. Describes their experiences and identifies the themes, strategies, and institutional structures. Finds that many institutions failed to implement policies and strategies that address underrepresented groups.…

Presents a secondary school simulation activity to help students understand major concepts underlying affirmative action programs. Includes student objectives and step-by-step instructional procedures. Provides a student handout and supplemental data table. (CFR)

Describes limitations of a Western, individualistic perspective on psychological theory. Summarizes research and theory regarding how personality may be shaped differentially by individualistic and collectivist cultures. Describes strategies for teaching about the impact of culture on personality. (CFR)

Describes the demographic, social, and political variables influencing the development of young children; their relationship to the need for comprehensive services; and the need for early childhood educators who possess competencies to serve diverse groups of young children, including those dealing with poverty, violence, cultural diversity,…

The Urban Experience program at one British college provided a two-week residential experience involving daily placements in urban schools and in social service and other caring agencies so preservice teachers would have a broader picture of the social factors impacting students and an understanding of ethnic and cultural diversity. (SM)

Results of interviews with 24 minority undergraduate teacher education students on predominately white campuses, as well as reviews of documents and interviews with faculty, indicate that these students want to teach within their own ethnic communities and that the teacher education programs lack significant cultural relevance. (39 references)…

Results are presented of a national survey of state policies regarding identification of gifted students from special populations (culturally diverse families, economic disadvantagement, or gifted students with disabilities). Also considered is a followup study on the implementation of state policies in Ohio, Arkansas, and Texas. Future policy…

Examines the growing influx of English loan words in Japanese, describing the structural and semantic changes that English loans go through in their Japanization process and the roles that they are expected to play. The social factors that drive the influx are also examined. (seven references) (MDM)