This review of academic freedom in U.S. universities focuses on the role of the American Association of University Professors, which originally linked academic freedom and tenure but now views equality of genders, races, and cultures and the normality of homosexuality as the only real values, whereas truth is seen as illusory, even exploitative.…

Administrator competency testing is required in 15 states. Competency testing has traditionally been plagued by ambiguous objectives, questionable validity, an adverse effect on minority group members, and high costs. Offers recommendations for policymakers and for preparation programs. (41 references) (MLF)

Current conditions in dental hygiene influencing professional education are discussed. Workplace/practice issues include dental hygiene care as a component of dental practice, content, effects, and quality of care, hygienist supply and demand, and job satisfaction. Professional issues include the knowledge base, definitions of practice, and…

Events leading to the passage in 1984 of Arizona's bilingual education law are examined using interviews with policy elite and concepts developed by D. E. Mitchell and others (1985) for studying distinctive cultures of state educational policymaking. Passage of a mandatory or more comprehensive law was not likely. (SLD)

An American Council on Education survey of almost 360 colleges and universities found that few institutions have experienced controversy over course content, speeches, or faculty lectures, suggesting that reports of widespread efforts to impose "politically correct" thinking on college students and faculty are exaggerated. Some…

Ackoff's circular structure has been successfully used to combine hierarchy and democracy in various industries. This paper argues that this structure is the most appropriate democratic structure for public schools' internal governance. A circularity of power relations between administrators and teachers would create genuinely empowering teacher…

Reviews reasons public and private sectors are turning to community colleges for leadership in nontraditional economic development programs, highlighting relevant social, economic, and educational trends. Considers the causes and impact of the economic disruption of the 1980's. Discusses the community colleges' unique place within America's social…

In trying to insulate school boards from city politics and political parties, early reformers severed board connections with other service providers. Today, worsening conditions for children and their families require "undoing" these reforms and transforming the board's role. Playing a smaller role in some executive, judicial, and…

Reviews two major themes dominating this yearbook: the value of school-linked, integrated services and the prospects for producing a new generation of university-trained professionals to work effectively in these better-integrated systems. The real challenge is transforming educational politics and reallocating existing (overlapping) funds.…

The role of white scholars in black studies has been a matter of controversy for two decades. The issue of white faculty teaching ethnic studies courses has become increasingly controversial on college campuses. Both racial tensions and academic politics appear to be causing heightened sensitivity. (MSE)

Explains "educational choice," a funding policy giving parents the option to select their child's educational environment without financial penalty, and its importance to the American educational system. Suggests activities for supporters of educational choice, including raising awareness, dispelling misinformation, encouraging others to act, and…

Examines educational theory, Marxism, and liberalism, discussing Kenneth Strike's "Liberal Justice and the Marxist Critique of Education" and Daniel Liston's "Capitalist Schools: Explanation and Ethics in Radical Studies of Schooling." Suggests that both authors are too hasty in abandoning Marxism and that Marxism is the…

Explores the various leadership models (structural-functional, open-systems, cultural-pluralism, interpersonal, and political) used to illuminate headteachers' work and considers the problems faced by leaders in professionally staffed organizations. School leadership activities center on managing organizational cultures and the external…

Discusses the possibility of constructing a writing classroom in which unsolicited oppositional discourse might be allowed to flourish. Describes one student essay about gay-bashing and the huge response of college composition professionals to its public discussion. Argues that teachers can provide a space where cultures can meet and grapple. (HB)

National standards and assessments (President Clinton's Goals 2000 Act) are being proposed to improve schools. This article reviews the bill and examines equity issues, including disparities in instructional conditions among racial/ethnic groups. Using tests to change teaching and learning reflects overreliance on top-down policy, distrust of…