Reports on selected aspects of the multicultural awareness, knowledge, and skills necessary for effective student affairs practice. Focuses on student affairs core competencies, multicultural competencies in student affairs, and implications of multicultural competencies in student affairs. Discusses training and research implications. (RJM)

Examines the question of illiteracy in the Caribbean relative to international trends in adult education. Identifies Jamaica's JAMAL literacy program and Grenada's Centre for Popular Education as the dominant influences on the development of adult education programs. Views strategic planning, as found in these programs, as a necessity for success.…

Examined whether a significant difference exists between variable of ethnicity and scores attained on a minimum competency test using high school juniors as subjects (N=2,681). Found ethnicity influenced competency scores; reading scores were influenced by sex; and ethnicity and sex negatively affected whether student passed or failed competency…

Six papers on the use of partial credit item response theory score models in applied measurement settings are presented. These applications include the scoring of medical certification examinations using computer-based patient simulations, narrative writing tests, and educational diagnosis. (TJH)

The modified caution index's use in identifying judges whose patterns of item judgment appear aberrant when compared with the pattern produced by the entire group (N=158) of judges was studied. Effects on test standards and passing rates of removing test standards of these judges were also assessed. (TJH)

The authors developed competency tests to document students' achievement of essential competencies in food and nutrition classes. Procedures included (1) developing the item pool; (2) determining validity and reliability; and (3) field testing. The study confirmed that it is possible to develop multiple-choice test items for essential competencies…

Analyzes the obstacles to universal literacy in Africa including the colonial creation of a two-tier society, rapid population growth, and multiplicity of languages. Suggests that the power structure is such that it has a vested interest in the providing a limited amount of literacy without raising the populace's consciousness. (Contains 30…

Nursing (n=109) and medical (n=108) students from a large Canadian research university were surveyed to determine differences between first- and fourth-year students' perceptions of necessary competencies. Nursing students' perceptions of competencies important for medicine were more congruent than medical students' perceptions of those important…

Differences between scores of Limited-English-Proficient (LEP) and non-LEP ninth grade students on the Hawaii State Test of Essential Competencies were studied. The LEP population scored significantly lower than the control group; results are discussed in terms of language training needs. (15 references) (Author/LB)

The common core knowledge and skills essential for all beginning special education teachers, developed by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), are reprinted, along with the CEC Code of Ethics. The article also provides a rationale for the standards and background information on their development and adoption. (JDD)

Application of a knowledge-based standard in evaluating a written certification examination developed by the American Board of Anesthesiology established a standard of 57 percent correct over two years' examinations. This process is recommended for developing mastery-based (rather than normative-based) success criteria for evaluation of medical…

Administrator competency testing is required in 15 states. Competency testing has traditionally been plagued by ambiguous objectives, questionable validity, an adverse effect on minority group members, and high costs. Offers recommendations for policymakers and for preparation programs. (41 references) (MLF)

Argues that high-stakes testing is inconsistent with the National Science Education Standards' goals regarding what students are taught about the nature and purposes of science. (Contains 23 references.) (Author)

This article discusses the importance of the interdisciplinary, family-centered approach to early intervention and the critical relevance of the knowledge and skills of pediatric physical therapists to remediate complex impairments of young children while meeting family needs. It presents advance competencies in pediatric physical therapy for…

In Minnesota, imperial forces would implement a controlling, if well-intentioned system designed to make teachers and students conform to standards not of their choosing. Based on outcome-based education precepts, the proposed reform ideas are retreads of tried and untrue conservative concepts with a history of failure. When minimum expectations…