Literature linking self-concept and achievement, and evaluation research on educational programs to improve self-concept are analyzed in terms of several self-concept theories. Evidence for a causal connection between self-concept and achievement is negative. Researchers have failed to explore other theoretical approaches to educational change.…

Medical education research indicates little has been done to improve teaching effectiveness of attending physicians on hospital wards. Moreover, there have been few studies to determine what the attending physician should attempt to accomplish with medical school trainees. More data collected in clinical settings are needed. (RD)

Describes the development and application of a kinesthetic sensitivity test to determine whether it is a valid and reliable measure of straight-copy typing speed and accuracy. The author states that this kinesthetic sensitivity instrument may be used as a prognostic aptitude test and recommends administration methods. (MF)

Discusses the change from 1964 to 1978 in the trend of chemistry majors who have pursued advanced degrees, which shows that smarter students have chosen medical school instead of chemistry. (HM)

Research on the effectiveness and use of college students' evaluation of faculty is reviewed. It is suggested that the research shows student feedback has a minimal effect on instructional improvement at the university level. (MH)

Investigates the misconceptions in physics among South African students. The physics test which was administered to selected high school and college students is included. (HM)

In order to assess the adequacy of the standardized budgets used by the Financial Aid Office at Iowa State University, they were compared with the self-reported budgets of a selected group of student aid recipients. Instructional and noninstructional expenses, state residency, marital status, and dependency status were considered. (JMD)

Some longitudinal databases already available which can serve as models for future data collection and for policy making are summarized: Cooperative Institutional Research Program (CIRP), Wisconsin High School Sample; Project TALENT; National Longitudinal Study (NLS) of the High School Class of 1972, SCOPE, and Youth in Transition. (Author/MLW)

The effectiveness of continuing medical education (CME) is reviewed in terms of physician competence, physician performance, and patient health status. Although half the studies published since l960 reported some improvement following CME, methodological shortcomings prevent concluding that the improvements were caused by CME. (Author/MH)

In an interview with Albert H. Quie, governor of Minnesota, he gives his opinion about the impact of research studies or educational evaluation on policy decision making in Congress, and the role of Congressional Committee staff members. (MH)

This study, conducted in an Australian institution, investigates the intellectual requirements of the mechanics section of a first-year college physics text. Instructional and prerequisite concepts were classified in terms of the intellectual skills required to understand them. (HM)

This interim report of the American Society for Engineering Education is intended to keep members informed and encourage them to offer viewpoints on current issues. Recommendations given relate to lifelong education, programs and curricula, accreditation, teaching methods, supply and demand, communication with the public, society, certification,…

Briefly reviews Albert Bandura's Self-Efficacy Performance Model (ability to perform a task is influenced by an individual's belief in their capability). Tests this model with a sample of 776 university employees and computer-related knowledge and skills. Results supported Bandura's thesis. Includes statistical tables and a discussion of related…

Describes new college teaching techniques using the brain-compatible teaching and learning model. Demonstrates that learning is based on the process of detecting and making patterns. Suggests maximizing use of local memory function to reduce dependency on rote learning and varying methods of classroom presentation to target different learning…

Applies Hirschman's concepts of satisfaction, voice, and valuing product quality to study parents' attitudes towards three forms of school choice: intradistrict options, interdistrict transfers, and public/private school vouchers. Responses from 1,832 parents reveals three different patterns, including the finding that parents seeking…