Describes the management information system being developed to support the information and data management needs for two projects in developing a pharmaceutical curriculum. The system supports the old curriculum, since it is phased out and replaced by the new and can become more complex as required. (Author/JEG)

Reviewed are five programs (textbooks, audiovisual materials, workbooks, video-cassettes) designed to improve academic survival skills in secondary students. Content emphasis, reading level, rationale, objectives, organization, instructional method, student evaluation, physical features, and recommendations are listed for each. (KC)

Reviews the second generation components of the Interstate Distributive Education Curriculum Consortium (IDECC) competency-based instructional system. It will provide classroom teachers opportunities to fully individualize their programs at minimal expense and with very little additional planning time. (CT)

The author presents an overview of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) movement, including the impetus for it and its advantages and disadvantages. (SJL)

Generic competencies in physical education have been drawn up in Michigan based on student-oriented competencies rather than activity-oriented statements. The competencies are classified as psychomotor, affective, or cognitive. (JMF)

Presents a case in favor of having the teaching profession police its own ranks for the sake of curbing incompetencies. (GA)

In a response to a review of Volume VI of the Youth in Transition series, the authors discuss how competency testing can be used to improve basic education. (MLF)

Effective learning on modular courses depends on prior mastery of learning-to-learn skills; integration of academic and work knowledge to overcome fragmentation; use of the spiral curriculum concept; and adequate time for practice and feedback before summative evaluation. (SK)

A case study of the implementation of Scottish Vocational Qualifications in hospitality enterprises included 15 survey responses and 12 interviews. The competency-based approach seems to have enhanced career development, job performance, employability, motivation, and self-confidence. Job satisfaction, however, was more associated with the nature…

Describes a set of computerized tools that support the instructional design and evaluation of competency-based training programs. Discusses authentic whole-task practice situations; the 4C/ID* methodology; an evaluation tool that supports the subsequent revision of the competency-based training design; and future plans. (Author/LRW)

A survey of 72 New South Wales vocational teachers revealed that competency-based training has created perceived pressures to pass students, is difficult to implement with limited resources, encourages modularization, and is hampered by unsatisfactory assessment and standards. Over 61% of the teachers felt that it has hindered or severely hindered…

Describes results-based guidance, a systems approach to student support programs. Outlines factors that have contributed to the changes in the duties and responsibilities of guidance counselors and the basis of the competency-based approach in guidance counseling. Details elements of the results-based guidance program. (GCP)

A business school revised its management curriculum to focus on applied, skill-based knowledge. New courses engaged a variety of learning styles. Students kept cumulative course journals and prepared management portfolios that demonstrated their competency development (Contains 14 references.) (SK)

Argues that literacy needs to include speaking and listening skills. Outlines the Washington State Core Competency Project that identified three levels--communication codes, oral message evaluation, and basic speech--and developed ways to teach these competencies to adult learners. (SK)