Considers the increasing number of poorly prepared college students. Argues that conventional instruction, which stresses weaknesses, deteriorates students' self-image. Recommends focusing programs and teaching strategies on student individuality. Underscores the importance of rigorous preassessment and self-assessment of natural limitations.…

The liberal consensus that has shaped national education policy is seen as succumbing to dubious ideas and undesirable practices. Issues discussed include: educational equity, equality and quality; measures of educational achievement; accountability; "need" and ability; statism and monoply, pluralism and diversity; federal role; and…

Philosphical principles provide the context for the Soviets' psychological theory (in particular, the "zone of proximal development" concept); this theory then shapes psychoeducational practice. (GDC)

The development of industrial arts education is shown from the standpoints of research, social efficiency, and technical competence. American education was transformed in response to sweeping social changes before and after the turn of the century. The article looks at these educational changes from kindergarten through secondary industrial…

Asserts that aesthetic questions and aesthetic understanding provide the framework for learning in art. Contrasts formalism (the belief that art exists for its own sake) with contextualism (the belief that art is part of a social communication system). Maintains that a balanced art program should incorporate both approaches. (MJP)

Analyzes the relationship between Christian religious education and revelation from the perspective of liberationist theology. Defines revelation less as an ecstatic spiritual experience and more as a call to live and work in a similar fashion as Christ. Discusses the implications of this for the modern church. (MJP)

Maintains that the contextualization (a critical awareness of the social forces that shape one's thinking) of religious education can only proceed with the contextualization of theology. Discusses this process from the perspective of racial-ethnic minorities. Although this process occurs at the margins of public life it often produces creative…

To avert a collision between a strategy of educational equity and the push for excellence, impediments to inclusion must be closely examined. This examination will facilitate restructuring of schools' standard operating procedures to accommodate the Coalition of Essential Schools philosophy, which advocates flexible scheduling, heterogeneous…

Faced with a changing social context, community colleges increasingly place community needs high among their priorities; rebuilding local communities may soon become a new mission. Initiatives are multiplying in three areas: community-based education; new collaborations; and new community services. The traditional community college is changing…

Criticizes the compartmentalization of educational practices into a hierarchy of general, vocational, and social. Argues for a more holistic integration of technology, vocation, and education reflecting a vision of lifelong learning and meaningful work. Discusses examples of this including the Scandinavian tradition of "Sloyd"…

Maintains that spirituality, by reason of its very nature and essence, is antithetical to the goals of state education. Argues that efforts to define spirituality as separate from religion are disingenuous and driven by a specific political agenda. Discusses the conflicting goals of spirituality and secular institutionalization. (MJP)

Examines three arguments supporting music education in the schools: (1) music education is vital to individual development; (2) musical experience involves a special kind of knowledge; and (3) the richness of musical experience justifies itself. Posits the the third argument as the strongest for building a supportive consensus. (MJP)

Presents an interview with Russian Deputy Federal Minister of Education, V. K. Batsyn, concerning the significance and necessity of history instruction for students. Discusses the nature and purpose of history instruction under the old Marxist regime and describes the new methods and approaches being implemented. (MJP)

Maintains that French educational policy towards art education is hampered by divergent agendas and competing educational directives. While the Ministry of Education supports "education for all," the Ministry of Culture promotes "education of a cultural elite." Discusses the philosophical and political conflicts that created…

Summarizes early Soviet Russia's first attempts to formulate and implement a national policy regarding higher education. Immediately following the revolution Soviet educational policy was often chaotic and contradictory as authorities tried to inculcate Marxist-Leninist ideology. Discusses the contributions of the Red Professorship Institutes and…