Results of a survey of fourth and fifth grade teachers regarding computer use are reported in the following areas: educational background and comfort level; perceptions about improving computer implementation; knowledge of the computer curriculum; instructional planning sources; and views on accountability in computer education. The questionnaire…

This article reviews the initial purposes of the Individualized Education Program in its historical context as legislated by Public Law 94-142; traces its unintended molding influence on instruction and individualization; and considers how provisions for individualization, accountability, and parent participation can be achieved while preserving…

Discusses library collection evaluation and its relationship to the acquisitions budget. Topics addressed include the publishing industry; library services that are more user centered; acquisition of versus access to sources of information and knowledge; the concept of value; library accountability; objectives and setting priorities; and levels of…

To promote successful cooperative learning in the classroom, preservice teachers need to learn to establish classroom environments emphasizing team goals and individual accountability. They must also examine their concept of classroom management style and the need for direct instruction of student social skills. (SM)

Presents a study of the cooperative learning method "Jigsaw II." Reports superior academic achievement effects are inconsistent with poorer results reported in earlier studies. Discusses a modification incorporating a group goal achievable only by contribution of all group members. Concludes that cooperative learning must include a group…

A social work education model that integrates field instruction with clinical and research curricula is described and compared with less comprehensive approaches. Issues discussed increasing accountability through developing evaluation skills, classroom techniques, materials, faculty role, field educator role, field advisor role, and use of both…

Argues that librarians should respond to the growing demand for medical information by expanding their role. The development of medical information reference, issues of accountability, legal responsibility, and user characteristics are discussed. Seven steps toward accountability, including in-depth reference interviewing, referral, training, and…

Discussion of the direction and governance of German higher education since the 1960s looks at the relationship of faculty to disciplines, the role of the state in higher education, and failed efforts at reform. New reform debates are examined. It is noted that change at the system level continues to be difficult. (Author/MSE)

The newly established Center for Research on Educational Accountability and Teacher Evaluation (CREATE) is described. CREATE--1 of 25 centers being funded by the Office of Educational Research and Improvement--will be a focal point in evaluating the performance of teachers, administrators, and programs in public schools and private schools. (SLD)

Controversies concerning the role of college accrediting agencies are identified, including such issues as student enrollment diversity, student loan defaults, and accountability. Recent actions of the Education Department, Congress, and specialized accrediting agencies are noted, as is controversy concerning linking accreditation by a regional…

Recommendations of the report on intercollegiate athletics are focused on increased presidential control directed toward academic integrity, financial integrity, and accountability through certification. Specifically addressed are chairs of governing boards, college and university presidents, student-athletes, athletics directors, alumni, faculty,…

Includes "School Choice: An Overview"; "Public School Choice: An Overview"; "Would Choice + Competition Yield Quality Education?" (Elmore); "National Testing: An Overview"; "Measuring Schools Is Not the Same as Improving Them" (Darling-Hammond); "Testing, Testing, One, Two, Three..."…

Implications of using alternative assessments for accountability in a high-stakes testing environment (using tests to make impact decisions for students, schools, or teachers) are examined. The psychometric properties of standardized alternative assessments are discussed, and the consequences of their use are considered. (SLD)

Federal regulations concerning recovery of indirect costs of university research projects are changing. Institutions should explore possible alternatives for managing reporting of indirect costs for individual projects. One system, reporting indirect cost categories in the same format as direct costs, may give insight into expenditures and help…

Discusses a study of training and development in noneducational, profit companies that found total quality management the main training topic. Participant evaluations measured training effectiveness. Employees participated in training for personal satisfaction and increased capacity. Private sector trainers expressed concern about the lack of…