This booklet describes existing and planned government initiatives to address the long-standing issue of low achievement in basic literacy and numeracy skills in England. The booklet begins with a brief explanation of the economic and social importance of basic functional literacy and numeracy skills. Part 1 is a discussion of English government…

This exploratory study establishes analytical tools (based on both technical criteria and user feedback) by which federal Web site administrators may assess the quality of their websites. The study combined qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques to achieve the following objectives: (1) identify and define key issues regarding…

This paper discusses the use of Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) scores and other elements affecting institutional accountability in the University of Maryland system. It asserts that SAT scores in and of themselves are not accurate predictors of retention and success. The publication of SAT scores of first-time, full-time freshmen clearly is as…

While a number of different approaches have been suggested for the improvement of K-12 education in the United States, one common element of many plans is the more extensive and more effective utilization of computer, networking, and other technologies in support of a broad program of systemic and curricular reform. The Panel on Educational…

In 1992, the U.S.-Israel Binational Science Foundation (BSF), in conjunction with Wheelock College (Boston), sponsored its second workshop on children's play, entitled "Play and Cognitive Ability: The Cultural Context." This volume reflects the presentations and discussions held at the workshop, offering perspectives on children's play…

This guide provides samples of college libraries' copyright policies and materials as a reference for library and learning resources personnel who need to create formal copyright policies, procedures, and publications and for those who are reviewing and updating their existing copyright materials. A survey of 310 members of the Community and…

A new world has arrived in which computer and communications technologies will transform the national and global economies into information-driven economies. This is triggering the Information Revolution, which will have political and societal impacts every bit as profound as those of the Industrial Revolution. The 21st century is viewed as one…

For some years, the European Commission on Childcare and Other Measures to Reconcile Employment and Family Responsibilities has given priority to the role of men as caregivers. Work in child care services remains one of the most gender-segregated occupations in the entire labor force, and this discussion paper adopts a clear position that more men…

The Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS) is conducted through questionnaires mailed to teachers, principals, and district administrators in a sample of the nation's public and private schools. First conducted in 1987-88, the SASS is now planned for every 5 years, with a teacher followup 1 year after each SASS. The SASS provides data on the country's…

This book provides librarians, researchers, and teachers with a comprehensive guide to technology and copyright issues, and is written for non-lawyers. Part 1 summarizes the historical and legal background and looks at future trends, including the probable effects of recommendations from the National Information Infrastructure report. Part 2…

This report documents some of the findings from a consultative interview process which marked the final stage of a New Zealand research program on families, work, and education. The consultations followed from, and were based in part on, the report "Striking a Balance: Families, Work, and Early Childhood Education." The focus of this…

This report contains seven essays on current issues in higher education and a 1995-96 faculty salary report. "Faculty Salaries, 1995-96" (John B. Lee) provides an overview of faculty salaries, while "Faculty Workload and Productivity: Ethnic and Gender Disparities (Henry L. Allen) examines the ethnic and gender differences in…

This report is a case study of the shortage of science and mathematics teachers in Nigeria. The paper begins with a discussion of the Nigerian educational system, including the place of science and mathematics in the school system, and the shortage of science and mathematics teachers. Programs undertaken to increase the number of science and…

This book, which is intended for distance educators and students of the theoretical foundations of distance education, offers a conceptual model of distance education and recommendations for policy and practice that link the principles of instructional design and the provision of learner support. Discussed in the first four chapters are the…

This evaluation focuses on the use of computers, telephones, broadcast video, and related devices to support instructional activities and administrative functions in the Des Moines (Iowa) Independent Community School District. The findings are presented in five parts: (1) Context Evaluation--History and Recent Improvements (video and instructional…