Examines (1) the definition of permanency planning for children involved in the foster care system, (2) the effects of permanency planning on agency practices, and (3) the implications of permanency planning for service delivery. (Author/RH)

Overviews the development of social responses to the problems of child abuse and neglect. Focuses on history, social values and attitudes, public awareness and policy, laws, and the evolution of social services. (Author/RH)

The author posits a conceptual approach to lifelong education that would provide a meaningful and productive framework for practical educational planning. Such an approach would enable the educational system to break from the confines of the education v training dichotomy. (SK)

Defines professional development and discusses its two modes: (1) formal activities (instructional programs, continuing education classes, internships and fellowships, conferences, seminars, and workshops) and (2) informal activities (reading, watching television, listening to radio, and interaction with friends and peers). (CT)

Defining the terms middle school and curriculum, the author then gives suggestions for planning the agricultural education curriculum for middle schools. Important responsibilities of the vocational agriculture teacher are discussed. (SK)

Multicultural education and intercultural communication are compared and contrasted with regard to definition, principles, practices, similarities, and differences. (JMF)

Presents the author's observations on the growth of continuing education, problems of definition, the identification of its constituency, and the status of continuing education programs in the academic world. (SK)

Sound approaches to needs assessment can assist practitioners in using resources effectively to improve program decision making. An analysis of uses of the term needs assessment provides the basis for discussing purposes and strategies. Following a critique of major approaches, practical suggestions are offered for conducting needs assessment…

Lists informal definitions for 130 terms dealing with recombinant DNA research. (CS)

Departments of preventive medicine can survive through unity, which can be achieved through majority agreement on a new and specific definition of preventive medicine. A definition is proposed that is based on a review and analysis of recent progress in the prevention of the major causes of mortality. (MLW)

Four categories of behaviors which contribute to quality communication are described: openness, confirmation, transaction management, and situational adaptability. These components of quality communications are functionally linked to marital satisfaction. (Author)

The nature of giftedness and talent is discussed in terms of definitions and characteristics of the gifted/talented population. Research and literature on gifted/talented children is reviewed, including the work of J. Renzulli, L. Terman, and J. Goertzel. (SBH)

Examines the interaction between the cultural definers of "brain death" and the policymakers who have formulated and enacted statutes in several states. Considers the medicolegal and philosophical-ethical approaches affecting the policy decisions. (JMF)

The School Survival Skills Curriculum, a comprehensive social skills curriculum, is described and some general recommendations for successful social skills training are offered. (DLS)

A study attempting to formulate a generic description of Indian community education noted significant differences between the perceptions of local and national leaders in 23 needs and priorities areas, most dealing with basic human needs. (SB)