The compilation of basic facts, intended as a guide for social studies teachers, provides a concise data survey on Czechoslovakia that relates to the history of the United States. The purpose is to furnish information based on both American and Czechoslovakian sources. In an outlined form social, economic, and political facts are provided along…

This volume, one of a series of handbooks on foreign culture, is intended as a reference tool for military and other personnel requiring an objective, comprehensive, and balanced description of the Indian Ocean Territories, namely, the two republics of Meldives and Mauritius, and the two European dependencies of Seychelles and Reunion. An…

Using data from several western nations, this article maintains that policy analysis has over-emphasized policy substance and neglected the influence of the political process. Focuses specifically on how political and institutional constraints influence policymaking in the Federal Republic of Germany. (JDH)

Using Latin American examples, this article examines the influence of four types of constraints (technological, cultural, clientelistic, and political) on bureaucratic-authoritarian, liberal-democratic and neo-patrimonialist regimes. Maintains that policy will be more effective if aided by an understanding of these constraints. (JDH)

Despite attempts by Congress during the 1970s to reform and reorganize the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), it has maintained substantive control over reservation institutions. A key to understanding BIA resistance to change appears to lie in organizational imperative of area directors to preserve and enhance their control over bureaucratic…

This book for third-to-eighth graders explains why government is needed, what it does, and how it works, by providing a grand tour of Washington, DC. The guided reading level is Q-R and the Fry level is 3.8. The suggested grade range is 3-8.

This kit, the first of four learning circles on civics and citizenship, addresses a series of broad issues about the way in which Australia is governed. Introductory materials include a synopsis of the six sessions; lists of 51 references, 29 Internet sites, and 13 videos and CDs; glossary; and list of 19 resource materials. Session guides are…

Suggests how classroom teachers can use world history to expose students to alternate models of political systems, and to explore the roots and the origins of U.S. democracy. Stresses that understanding alternative governments develops an appreciation of the values, merits, and strengths of U.S. democracy. (LS)

Presents findings of an exploration of 258 elementary education majors' knowledge of U.S. government. Reports that students responded correctly to about 53 percent of test items. Indicates that students knew the most about guarantees of liberty and least about governmental powers. Questions the students' ability to teach about the ways the U.S.…

Examines misconceptions in both Western and Eastern countries about educational systems in postcommunist Eastern Europe. Discusses issues of slow pace of educational reform, change through formal power structures, centralization versus decentralization, role of tradition, macro- and micro-level problems, Western assistance, and the relationship…

Presents interview with the director of an innovative program for troubled and delinquent youth in Czech Republic. Gives examples of developments in the field of high-risk youth including greater freedom given to teachers to develop new curricula, improved communication between diagnostic institutes and regular school systems, legislation to allow…

Designed for use in secondary school government classes, this booklet describes Wisconsin's state and local governmental system. Chapter 1 identifies Wisconsin's governmental units as: (1) the nation; (2) state; (3) county; (4) municipal; (5) vocational, technical, adult education districts; and (6) school districts. Chapter 2 defines the term…

Designed for classroom teaching, this document contains articles on the new constitutions of Japan, South Korea, and the Philippine Islands which were modeled in part on the U.S. Constitution. These countries' experiences with constitutional government are examined, and whether or not the U.S. Constitution can be a suitable model for other…

The goal of the Hearst survey was to measure the public's knowledge of the U.S. Constitution. This report is divided into three sections: (1) a report on the survey in the form of an address to the National Conference of Bar Presidents; (2) the survey findings; and (3) the survey methodology. The survey itself, in which 1,004 respondents were…

This study of public library services and needs in the city and county of Spokane and the surrounding area was conducted to present and evaluate available alternatives for providing effective library service for all the residents of Spokane County and the surrounding counties which comprise Spokane's natural trade area. Information for the study…