The author argues that in certain sectors of a society, especially a developing one, the best plan for educational development may be no plan. To illustrate, he analyzes the day-to-day survival problems of the Latin American urban poor and the ways that formal schooling exacerbates these problems. (Author/SJL)

In 1979, Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis launched the nation's first Learn and Shop College Credit Program in which college-credit courses are offered in training rooms of major department stores in suburban shopping centers. This program is described and student attitudes are discussed. (Author/MLW)

Describes different styles and approaches toward broadcasting which could be used within the Open University Continuing Education Division. Three types of courses using television are discussed: advice courses, how to courses, and why (basis of knowledge) courses. Three references are included. (Author/BK)

The author applies a morphological analysis to the problem of creating alternatives for gifted programs. It is explained that four parameters (people, places, processes, and products) must be identified, and alternatives appropriate for each parameter must be listed. (SBH)

The Courses by Newspaper program provides a vehicle for scholars to present critical issues to an audience of nearly 5,000,000 newspaper readers. The program also links with educational television and radio to serve as a catalyst in the development of noncredit courses. (SK)

Describes a nontraditional program at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis, which offers a number of communication courses in an off-campus setting in neighborhood shopping centers. Highlights some specific concerns such as use of library facilities and materials and use of textbooks. (JMF)

A validational procedure was used, which involved a matrix of intercorrelations among tests reresenting four areas of Chartered Life Underwriter content knowledge, each measured by objective multiple-choice and essay methods. Results indicated that the two methods of measuring the same trait yielded fairly consistent estimates of content…

Suggests replacing academic failure with a system in which the teacher explains standards of coursework to students, enabling them to work toward a specific grade or to receive an "incomplete" if they fail to meet minimum expectations. Benefits of such a system are outlined. (SJL)

Defines competency-based adult education; provides a brief history of the Adult Performance Level (APL) Curriculum and Competency-Based High School Diploma program; explains the National Diffusion Network; examines how the APL staff offers training and technical assistance; and focuses on nontraditional APL program implementation. (CT)

Argues for small alternative schools as a method for dealing with disruptive, alienated youth. Outlines the basic ingredients necessary to the success of such a program. Specifically addresses six possible objections to these alternative schools for disaffected students. (SJL)

The author describes the development and success of a program designed to allow gifted and talented and learning problem eighth grade students to choose their own courses and course sequence as they pursued mastery of seven critical skills in reading, writing, computation, problem solving, research, and adjustment. (CL)

Describes a California high school program called Students Exploring, Analyzing, Researching, Caring, and Hoping (SEARCH) that uses teacher-counselors and an individual curriculum. (JM)

The author argues for a humanistic approach to the mental health education of the general public. He suggests that a "demythologizing" approach has advantages over the medical model in helping the public to deal with their psychological problems. Supporting research evidence is reviewed. (Author/SJL)

Study attributes personality and motivation of students choosing supervised or unsupervised study in a group of high school juniors, and, using discriminant analysis, derives profiles of students who chose independent or dependent study. (RAO)

Eleven higher education institutions were involved in planning, and six in implementing a national project on experiential education sponsored by NISS during the years 1974 to 1976. The developmental work, purposes of the research intended to be accomplished, and reasons for termination of the project are described. (Author/LBH)