Ten years of participants in Ohio University's freshman "University Experience" course (an extended orientation course) were compared with comparable nonparticipants on academic performance, student retention, and student graduation. For most years, participants' GPAs, retention rates, and graduation rates were higher. (EV)

An orientation program for clinical nursing education in Australia includes self-paced modules for preceptors and students with a related video explaining roles and responsibilities. Evaluation by 41 students and 19 preceptors indicated it was cost effective and resulted in greater work-role satisfaction and retention in the first nursing job. (SK)

Returning camp staff can help build a team environment with new staff during precamp activities. A panel of experienced staff can answer questions and previous emergencies can be reviewed to build risk management expertise. Three games are described in which returning staff can share knowledge in a fun way. (TD)

A California high school principal advises beginning principals to understand and respect their position; obtain a mentor; listen carefully; be humble; do something safe, dramatic, and visible early; find out about predecessors and possible "land mines"; ask for decision-making advice; exercise educational leadership; be positive; and…

This study employed an audiometric test battery with nine blindfolded undergraduate students to explore success factors in echolocation. Echolocation performance correlated significantly with several specific auditory measures. No relationship was found between high-frequency sensitivity and echolocation performance. (Author/PB)

A three-phase study identified current practice and potential good practice in the implementation of General National Vocational Qualifications in Britain. Although good practices were found, flaws were also apparent. A systematic induction program was deemed an integral part of implementation. (SK)

A well-planned maintenance program will prolong a new school building's life expectancy and save enormous sums. A maintenance program should include a facility inventory, a building archive, management of punch-list and warranty items, custodial service, proactive maintenance, a maintenance schedule, and energy conservation features. (MLH)

Discusses the benefits of a Web-based orientation for international students and suggests means by which academic institutions can best use the Web to support their specific programs and goals with respect to international education. (EV)

A 3-year study of 82 young professionals found that work-related well-being was predicted by selection (commitment to personal goals), optimization (application of goal-related skills), and compensation (maintaining goals in the face of loss). The degree of compensation predicted emotional well-being and job satisfaction 3 years later. (Contains…

Discusses the origins, philosophy, and current status of student financial aid, asserting that this information is important for orientation personnel as they develop programs and promote a holistic view of student success, including how students pay for college. (EV)

Surveys the past 25-30 years in library instruction, particularly cooperation and collaboration between librarians and faculty. Discusses Louis Shore's Library College Movement which envisioned all courses being taught in the library by subject matter experts; the Monteith College experiment; course-related instruction; experiences at Earlham…

Discussion of information literacy focuses on resource-based learning. Considers library instruction versus information literacy; documenting value added; the workforce and information literacy; user-friendly library systems; and educational reform. Information literacy standards, endorsed by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL)…

Gives a brief history of the field of international adult education regarding sexual orientation, including events at the Sixth World Assembly. Presents 13 strategies for the elimination of homophobia and discrimination. Asserts that difference is a fundamental human right. (Contains 26 references.) (SK)

Reflects upon theoretical and applied challenges and needs in incorporating sexual orientation issues into communication studies. Argues that communication courses need to explicitly include material related to the life experiences of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people; and that reducing homophobia and heterosexism among high school…

Discussion of the integration of technology into education focuses on a model of goal-oriented behavior, Perceptual Control Theory, as a framework for understanding teacher adoption of technology. Examines the goals of teachers and how the use of technology might help or hinder their goals. (Author/LRW)