Asserts that educators should reject test-based reform and focus instead on assessment practices that encourage higher level learning. Simply demanding higher scores, even with rewards and sanctions attached, is ineffective. Academic success comes not by teaching to standardized tests but by teaching for deeper, important meaning. (Contains 22…

The development of teacher evaluation systems that promote professional growth is discussed, based on studies in South Kitsap, North Haven, and Levittown of adult development and teacher evaluation and the professional experiences of D. L. Duke. "Decoupling" accountability from professional growth provides the best means of forwarding…

Summarizes major differences between, and compatibility of, site-based management (SBM) and choice as strategies for restructuring schools. Examines the following areas of comparison: focus; impact timing; nature of impacts; teacher empowerment; empowerment basis; roles assigned parents; professionalization strategy; accountability; change…

This article identifies several reasons for demands for teacher and student accountability. Minimum competency testing of students and teachers is discussed within the context of the accountability movement, and the implications of such testing as an evaluation tool are considered. (IAH)

Notes that criticism of the training offered by universities to future chemists is well documented. Suggests a 17-step model for the planning of a chemistry course that utilizes a competency-based training program. Explains each step and lists sample objectives. (MVL)

As part of its systemwide effort to improve teacher education and increase the number of qualified teacher education program enrollees, California State University expects all administrators and faculty to be involved in some way with teacher recruitment, education, and evaluation. (MSE)

Acknowledges that assessment is often perceived as a costly ordeal with minimal benefits to the institution beyond meeting external reporting requirements. Presents examples of assessment data already available in existing records, and ways in which colleges can leverage the results of assessment to serve multiple purposes. (MAB)

Describes 13 methodological options for assessing student learning and development, discussing advantages, disadvantages, techniques for reducing the disadvantages, and bottomline strategies as a guideline for selecting a suitable method. Indicates that it is crucial to use a multimethod approach to obtain maximum validity. (MAB)

Decentralizing the budget process not only empowers teachers to make decisions about instructional goals and fiscal planning but also involves other stakeholders, including parents, students, administrators, and business people. This article describes a three-phase system that enables secondary teachers to address issues relevant to their…

Many colleges and universities have developed internships to offer students work experience in the fields of fitness and exercise. The article identifies typical problems that occur in internships and proposes feasible solutions. Problems occur in four areas: intern academic preparation, intern accountability, supervisor's skills, and…

Australia's national policy concerning equity in higher education is examined, particularly policy concerning funding and accountability mechanisms. The absence of any analytical or theoretical basis for planning and prioritization of equity initiatives and resulting limitations on their effectiveness are discussed. (MSE)

Although David Hornbeck became Philadelphia Schools' new superintendent in September 1994, critics are already saying the honeymoon is over. In a school system characterized by student absenteeism, high dropout rates, minimal community support, and declining resources, Hornbeck's reform agenda (Children Achieving) may receive inadequate support.…

The Edison Project will reconfigure time, deploy truly professional teachers, and utilize technologies in powerful new ways. Other Edison design highlights include its research basis; clear, defining values; high universal standards; five-domain curriculum; proven, individualized instructional methods; creative organization; true accountability;…

Canadian parents and educators are targeted with a campaign designed to convince them that lack of adequate testing represents a major barrier to educational reform. The paper examines the dangers and adverse effects of standardized testing, reviewing recent attempts to alert educators and policymakers to the deficiencies of standardized testing.…

The comments of two educators and an excerpt from a recent report on higher education reform address issues of accountability in higher education, including clarifying the role and responsibility of the faculty, fragmentation of the campus community and curriculum, and declining student outcomes. (MSE)