Research shows that in small schools students have better attendance and higher test scores, participate in more activities, are less violent, and feel more connected to their schools; teachers form closer bonds with students and are more innovative; and parents are more involved. Three models are examined: small schools, schools within a school,…

Participants who attended three national alternative education conferences in Japan, Indiana, and Israel report on their experiences at the conferences and issues addressed, including freedom versus license, responsibility to poor children, funding for alternative education programs, democratic education, government role, and varying and…

Compared to conventionally schooled children, home-schooled children do as well or better academically; they are well adjusted socially, find employment, and go on to further education. Communication technologies allow children to learn academic foundations at home. Discusses parents' reasons for choosing home schooling, legal status in various…

Describes interdisciplinary activities with real-world applications ranging from science to mathematics to technology. Cites the study and construction of model bridges as a way for students to learn about engineering concepts and some of their relationships. States that the exercise enhanced teacher cooperation between the different fields. (RT)

Describes a planning process necessary for the successful implementation of a school of choice option. Topics discussed include resistance to change; development of an Organizational Status Report (OSR); developing a mission statement, goals, and objectives; a Community Communications Document (CCD); monitoring ongoing progress; and evaluation…

The guest editor of the special series on "Equity-Based Education" summarizes the articles in Parts One and Two, appearing in this and the previous issue. The purpose of the series is to promote fuller discussion and encourage the adoption of more effective ways of achieving equity in education. (AF)

Meetings of home schoolers were observed to determine parents' attitudes toward traditional education. Many parents, over time, grew to question the validity of their previous assumptions but remained firm in their belief that schools are not neutral and meritocratic dispensers of knowledge. (BJV)

In most states, governments and communications companies are working to connect public schools, colleges, libraries, and state government offices by computer networks. In some states, technology, not campus expansion, is being considered as a means of accommodating growing enrollments. Cost containment and improved access to education are two…

This article describes the Pathfinder Project, an Arizona project which serves adjudicated youth in an alternative placement based on a "Success School" model of the school as a learning organization with high emphasis on community service, individual goals, work-study, coaching for success, and group counseling. (DB)

Describes a pilot program designed to teach algebra to Texas migrant students via audioconferencing. Discussion includes course development, design, and delivery and indicates audioconferencing to be a feasible alternative to on-site instruction, noting high class grade averages and students' increased mathematical ability. Author/AEF)

Evaluates the merits of a program that requires both a dissertation and work experience for a graduate degree in geography. Maintains that changes in both the educational environment and the job market require greater flexibility and experience. (MJP)

Describes correspondence studies at the University of Zambia; and examines their management, teaching methods, course organization, problems in maintaining the courses, and possible resolutions. (Author/AEF)

The following methods of estimating school-level experimentation with drugs by adolescents at 20 California continuation high schools are compared: (1) self-reports; (2) prevalence estimates from students; (3) prevalence estimates from school staff; (4) naturalistic observation; and (5) refuse (garbage) analysis. Advantages of refuse analysis are…

Since 1977, the University of Wyoming has been developing methods of delivering its bachelor of social work program throughout its large, sparsely populated, rural state. New video telecommunication technology can reach all areas in the state with live, interactive teaching. This emerging program is unique and has implications for other…

Proposals for a significant improvement in education include the following: an alternative program for low performing students; a school-plus plan that extends the school year; a program that gives students the option of returning to take classes; choice for the neighborhood school; a program for students who show an affinity for science and…