Introduces the technique of analyzing issues underlying distinctions (IUDs) by applying the method to adult education definitions. Discusses IUDs as metaphors. (SK)

In a field trial addressing revisions to autism criteria in the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV), information on 977 cases (454 with autism, 240 with "autistic-like" conditions, and 283 with nonpervasive developmental disabilities disorders) was rated. DSM-IV criteria were compared with the International…

Analyzes 40 concepts in adult education in relation to time, space, policy, theory, and ideals, as well as tensions and competition among them. Seven categories of concepts are presented: core, international, institutional, work related, learning, curricular, and structural. (SK)

Examines concepts and types of organizational commitment and factors common to all commitments. Conceives of commitment as a single, fundamental construct that varies in focus, terms, and time-specific evaluation. (SK)

Discusses how to define a welfare spell (period on welfare) and how well surveys measure welfare spells. A look at survey and administrative data from two studies shows that a substantial amount of administrative churning occurs in administrative data. A single definition of a welfare spell does not appear applicable to all respondents. (SLD)

Dynamic generalizations of reliability and validity that will incorporate longitudinal or developmental models, using latent curve analysis, are discussed. A latent curve model formulated to depict change is incorporated into the classical definitions of reliability and validity. The approach is illustrated with sociological and psychological…

Based on classic and emerging international literature, action learning is defined as learning form concrete experience and critical reflection on experience, focused on problem solving and change. Facilitators of action learning do not impose solutions but guide action learning teams through the process. (Contains 44 references.) (SK)

Discusses some emerging discourses on environmental education and how "sustainability" has been used within different discourses. Asserts that the contested nature of the concept does not mean that it cannot be usefully adopted within environmental education processes. Focuses on how the concept has been adopted by students in a…

The proliferation of uses of "certificate" in education and business is rendering the term meaningless. Higher education institutions should seek consensus on the types and categories in order to maintain clarity. A delineation between nonbaccalaureate and postbaccalaureate and between credit and noncredit is a starting point. (Contains…

Argues that the meanings that writing center staff members assign to the words "tutor" and "tutee" run directly counter to the common meanings for the terms. Suggests replacing "tutor" with "writing assistant,""writing consultant," or "writing fellow." Suggests replacing "tutoring" with "discussion" or "consulting." Suggests replacing the term…

To dispel parents' and educators' confusion about children's learning problems, this article properly defines terms such as slow learner, learning disability, attention deficit disorder, and underachiever. A sidebar categorizes four types of underachievers, who perform better when tightly monitored. (MLH)

This theoretical analysis of sociological conceptions of skill contrasts four approaches: positivist, ethnomethodological, Weberian, and Marxist. It is argued that impasses in industrial sociology stem from the fact that these approaches use very different notions of skill. (58 references) (SK)

Differing definitions of instructional leadership can lead to miscommunication, low evaluation ratings, and conflicts. Definitions may vary to suit the context. A good beginning is to read the literature. Then principals can discuss instructional leadership with superiors and peers and ask staff members for input. The next step is sharing…

The history and etymology of terms commonly used by registrars in maintaining records are summarized, with focus on their Latin origins. Terms include record, copy, file, rolls, register, data, enrollment, total, census, notary, minutes, office, delegate, catalog, schedule, procedure, memorandum, authentic, seal, signature, diploma, certify, and…