A K-8 computer literacy program in Alexandria, Virginia, schools calls for the use of computers in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The history, concepts, process, and applications of computers are taught. Teachers also receive training in computer literacy in a course taught within the school system. (MLF)

Describes the five-year effort of the Allentown, Pennsylvania School District to develop districtwide final examinations to test the mastery of course objective in its secondary schools. (FL)

Summarizes a survey of 300 middle school principals about their characteristics and their views about the important components of middle schools. (JM)

Advanced and alternative ordinary psychology programs are offered at the secondary level in the United Kindgom. Enrollment is increasing, particularly among women. Universities and the British Psychological Society are not actively involved with the programs. The program content does not emphasize personality growth. (AM)

Discusses the development of the Canadian Heritage Writing Competition and the opportunities it has offered young Canadian writers. (AEA)

The authors question the adequacy of the traditional response by the educational community to the needs of the unemployed and the assumptions inherent in the type of courses provided. (CT)

Describes the development of the doctoral program in basic composition and rhetoric at the University of Louisville (Kentucky). Discusses the general theory for training basic writing teachers, the kinds of practical experiences they should have, and the course requirements. Includes a bibliography of texts for basic writing teachers. (HTH)

Describes the instruction for basic teachers at Ohio's Findlay College. Discusses course materials and the training of writing assistants and current faculty members. (HTH)

Holds that many critics of experiential learning programs have confused specific programs' characteristics or activities (such as mountain climbing in Outward Bound) with the fundamental concept underlying the learning-by-experience approach. Lists requirements of effective experiential education programs: (1) new, applied skills; (2) responsible,…

Reports on the transition program of Queensland which, while focused on communication, enables the students to approach the transition from school to postschool life with confidence. (HOD)

An Australian perspective of the writing projects burgeoning in the United States. (RL)

Reviews the operational steps in conducting a major needs assessment study. Discusses who should be involved in the process, when the process should be conducted, how the process should be conducted, general steps, and criteria for an effective model. (CT)

Describes a series of group meetings for prospective adoptive couples in which participants explored issues related to rearing adopted children with special needs. Results of informal evaluation by participants are reported. (RH)

Survey results have demonstrated a need for the integration of economics education in the total public school curriculum. (CJ)

With burgeoning numbers of programs available for mid-life education, accurate descriptions of program objectives and rationale can help potential participants identify the programs that will meet their needs. (SK)