Western preconceptions about the nature of the political process, the division between public and private spheres, and participation in the political process give an incomplete picture of political activity in places like the Sudan. Cultural differences between the northern and southern region further complicate our understanding of the country.…

Argues that the poor's plight is likely to worsen as New York City's fiscal crisis is transformed into a service crisis. Asserts that the tendency to close small old schools in areas where densities are higher (which minimizes transportation costs) closes schools that are predominantly attended by poor and minority students. (KH)

Analyzes the notion of community participation in urban education, and argues against critics who hold it is merely "symbolic." Asserts that, from the perspective of a phenomenological approach grounded in an analysis of the school's hegemonic role, community participation can be seen as an emancipatory activity. (Author/KH)

Criticizes the Reagan Administration report, "Disorder in Our Public Schools," and offers an alternative perspective on school discipline. Discusses (1) the report's origination, (2) the extent and nature of the discipline problem, (3) administrators' and courts' roles, (4) the Reagan Administration's recommendations, and (5) the…

Presents summaries of research dealing with (1) foreign correspondents in Washington, D.C., (2) legal protection for magazine article ideas, (3) the influence of training on taking and judging photographs, (4) the impact of cable television on library materials borrowing, and (5) the law that first led to a free press. (FL)

Examined are inadequacies of the eclectic or contextualist classroom principle, defined as a philosophy of art education which selects scholarly art content offerings related to the production, criticism, and history of art as it relates to the school environment or context present in a particular time and place. (RM)

Observing the types of progams affected by budget cuts during times of austerity may provide insight into how programs are selected and implemented during periods of abundance. Several areas for consideration during the budget cutting process are discussed. To develop sound educational programs, fundamental requirements must first be defined. (DF)

Examines the evoluation of proportional representation and its applicability to school districts, citing relevant court decisions. Recommends single-member districts and outlines a method for apportioning them. (MCG)

The work of the National Institute of Education (NIE) is discussed by its director, who emphasizes that educational research, although a relatively new discipline modestly funded, can eventually make a difference in the quality of education. NIE-sponsored programs are reviewed. (Editor/LBH)

All political scientists who study education policy start their analysis with a similar premise: "educational reform does not take place in political vacuum." Studies of the politics of school choice have focused primarily on state-level political dynamics. This line of research makes sense since the charter school market is initially…

This book explains the debates that bedevil education research--for example that it is low quality, or not scientific enough, or not useful enough--and shows how research in education must meet different demands in different places, times and conditions. A major part of the book provides detailed analyses and guidance to different areas in which…

The responsibilities of university presidents and board chairs have evolved significantly from the early days of public higher education. There was a time when the power of the board was absolute, but those days are long gone, and it remains an open question whether the structures of public boards have kept pace with the complex social…

Given the relatively few positions on the governing boards of public colleges and universities, every trusteeship is important. Along with the respect appropriately afforded trustees and regents comes special obligations, responsibilities, and high expectations from many sources. How boards can cope with the expectations and ambiguities inherent…

This testimonial presents evidence that reduced class size (CSR) has positive effects on student learning in grades K-3. Student achievement is improved in the areas of academics, behavior and discipline, citizenship and participation in and outside school, and development into competent and productive adults. The paper emphasizes that class size…

Composition education is not only about the development of students' written literacy skills; it is also about learning new ways to think and act both inside and outside the classroom. By understanding the ideological and social elements of teaching practices, teachers can structure their undergraduate composition classrooms in ways that better…