Results of a study of mandatory continuing education (MCE) programs at a large teaching hospital indicated that mandating the programs had an adverse effect on participants' perceived outcomes and their likelihood of voluntarily attending programs in the future. (JOW)

An argument is presented for a common core of basics for all students. In addition, national standards are considered within the contexts of a pluralistic society and societal goals. Costs and benefits of adopting national standards are examined in light of the experiences of other countries with centralized educational policies. (IAH)

Discusses the difficulty in providing general music education for all high school students. Examines teacher resistance to such courses and negative student attitudes towards any required course. Argues that such education is valuable in that its purpose is to refine the aural perceptions and musical curiosity of all students. (GEA)

Describes the approach used by the Baltimore County (MD) Public Schools to develop and implement a general music curriculum, designed to meet the needs of students not enrolled in band, choir, or orchestra. The resulting required course focused on developing a historical understanding of significant musical compositions and their role in society.…

Discusses ways in which instrumental music teachers can benefit from teaching nonperformance classes and the reasons why these teachers are a natural choice for the job. Examines specific competencies of instrumental music teachers, suggesting ways they can be put to work in nonperformance classes. (GEA)

Inclusion of a course in the pharmacy curriculum that deals primarily with the immune system, its function, malfunction, and therapeutic intervention provides what appears to be a workable focus for discussion of biotechnology. (MSE)

Using cognitive test data to simulate employment selection tests, data from 1,427 Northern Ireland students showed better science curriculum offerings in Protestant schools and differences in science provision for boys and girls. Poor science instruction adversely affects the range of career choices, especially for Catholic girls. (SK)

Presents a lesson plan designed to enhance student understanding of the value of history study. Focuses on David Laushey's 10 values of the study of history. Creates a series of discussion vignettes based on these concepts. Includes questions for study and a list of vignettes for classroom discussion and problem solving. (NL)

Survey examined dance education for undergraduate physical education majors in programs nationwide, investigating dance forms taught, hours required, professional preparation, and instructional methods. Results indicated almost one-third did not offer dance education. Those which required it had a narrow range of dance forms and mandated very few…

Analysis of data from an annual graduating medical students' survey revealed that a required third-year family medicine clerkship of at least four weeks is associated with a higher percentage of students choosing training and specialty certification in family practice. Whether clerkship inspires or reinforces preexisting choices is not indicated.…

Reports on a survey of teacher educators (n=38) about required computer courses for education majors. Most institutions required and offered one three to four credit computer course. Only 15 percent planned to supplement required courses. There were 51 computer labs on 40 campuses. Instructor presentation was the standard instructional method. (SM)

This study compared the cognitive development of 272 students in 7 graduate and 9 undergraduate social work programs. Students beginning their social work study at the graduate level scored significantly higher than students beginning social work study at the undergraduate level in their ability to see situations in more mature and complex ways.…

Defends the exclusion of Shakespeare course requirements for the English Department at Indiana University by explaining that "Shakespeare can take care of himself"--students will sign up for as many Shakespeare classes as offered. Presents opposing obstacles and objectives to this curricular decision. (SC)

Describes how the author facilitates drama experiences in the foundations of education courses that she teaches for preservice teachers. Suggests the course helps students gain an understanding of the philosophies of education, the rationale for arts in the curriculum, as well as multiple perspectives of dramatic art, by learning through…

Reports a study gauging the average oral proficiency as measured by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) of college students (n=20) studying German at the end of their fourth semester. Discussion centers on reasonable expectations for high school graduation and for college language…