Contradictions are inherent in the evaluation of placement test writing, contradictions that at once value and devalue writers and writing, readers and reading. In testing, the evidence for the essay's effectiveness rests almost entirely on the writer's choice of linguistic forms. The characteristics that distinguish evaluation in competency…

Tracking--the system of grouping students for instruction on the basis of ability--reflects the class and racial inequalities of American society and helps to perpetuate them. In the junior and senior high schools studied, there were clear differences between upper and lower tracks in: (1) content and quality of instruction, (2) teacher-student…

This document contains California's guidelines for serving students with severe orthopedic impairments in the public schools. Elements characteristic of well-designed programs are described in the guide's three chapters, and each description is followed by a series of questions for program evaluation. The first chapter addresses approaches to…

Although disabled students need the same comprehensive assistance in making the transition from school to work as their nondisabled counterparts, most disabled youth, and particulary those with severe disabilities, do not receive adequate assistance in this area. This situation can be remedied by approaching the transition to employment as a…

Three types of evaluation methods are discussed in terms of their use in evaluating both cognitive and affective learning in developmental programs: standardized tests; criterion-referenced tests; and naturalistic inquiries. Section I looks at the complexities of learning and the inherent difficulties in judging the quality and quantity of what is…

Limited-English-proficient (LEP) students who are not sufficiently proficient in English to participate effectively in an English-speaking instructional environment must be identified for placement in an appropriate educational program. Their progress through an instructional program that is designed to improve their acquisition of English…

A study was conducted at Burlington County College to investigate the relationship between the academic characteristics and course completion of students enrolled in General College Chemistry (CHE 105) in fall 1985. The study involved an examination of students' academic records and a survey of students who did not successfully pass the course. Of…

The Ontario Test of English as a Second Language (OTESL) is a battery of instruments and procedures for evaluating the English proficiency of second language speakers in postsecondary institutions in Ontario (Canada). A Post-Admission test measures performance in reading, listening, and writing. An Oral Interaction Test is based on tasks of…

This resource guide outlines the labor/management approach supported in the new legislation regarding worker dislocation and training. It provides companies and unions with the initial information necessary to establish a labor/management committee. Section 1 discusses the benefits to employees and employers of establishing a work force reduction…

This report presents findings of an assessment of the Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation's (DVR) services to women with disabilities. The first part of the report reviews current literature related to the provision of vocational rehabilitation services to women with disabilities nationwide. The second part displays and interprets…

This paper, reviews the history of mainstreaming and the mixed results of its research base. Research findings on specific variables are outlined for consideration when integrating students with special needs. The variables discussed include: (1) academic achievement, which focuses on early identification of learning needs, and preparation for the…

The PAC-WISE program provided 150 hours of skills training in office occupations to single parents and homemakers with a high school diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Recruitment was effected mainly through GED classes and a flyer in the lobby of the administration building. Selection was based on need according to a…

The paper, originally given at a 1986 Ethnic and Multicultural Symposium, provides an overview of educational opportunities for American Indian handicapped and gifted/talented students in the United States. Prevalence data of handicapping conditions among Indian children is presented for public schools, schools under the Bureau of Indian Affairs,…

In February 1988, a survey was conducted to examine placement procedures and developmental reading programs at two- and four-year colleges in New York State. Surveys were mailed to 30 two-year colleges and 28 four-year colleges, requesting information on the placement tests and cut-off scores used; types of additional diagnostic testing; course…

The goal of transition planning is to bridge the gap between the mandated special education services provided by public schools and the entitlement systems under which adult services operate. This paper is designed to assist parents in understanding the transition planning process. In a question-and-answer format, information is presented to…