Drawing upon the perspective of the policy sciences and a cross-disciplinary background, the author presents an integrated model of information-producing research activities that feed into various parts of the decision-making process. This model incorporates evaluation, needs assessments, policy analysis, training and technical assistance, and…

The importance of research in the humanities is underscored, and it is proposed that humanistic research does not differ in nature from activities already accepted as research and should be supported with the same commitment and through the same agencies as research in the social and natural sciences. (MSE)

Provides a critical overview of articles in this issue on field work in administration and policy. Focuses on three recurrent themes: field worker role; reciprocity (the repayment a fieldworker makes to his or her informants); and ethics. (KH)

Investigates the management perspectives and the reported practices, priorities, and activities of all federally funded adult basic education programs in New York City. The views of the directors of the funded community-based organizations and those of the managers of the local education agency's program are compared. Recommendations for policy…

The growing proportion of elderly and rising costs of health care for the aged raise ethical issues about the nature of the social obligation to the elderly as contrasted with the young. Reexamination of health care policy must consider the role of values, social justice, and individual self-respect. (Author/NRB)

A rationale for developing national systems of postsecondary education in developing nations is outlined, and models for public policy, legislation, governance, and institutional administration are presented. (MSE)

Develops a model for analyzing the behavior of commissions and discusses the role of social science in the model. Uses the model to examine Boston's Safe Schools Commission, with data on how social science was used by the commission being used to suggest several modifications to the model. (Author/JN)

Acceptance of practical tests for dental school graduates brings with it questions of the reliability and efficacy of the board examinations. The continued existence of state boards has been justified by suggesting that any weakening in curriculum is apparent by the state dental board's annual review. (MLW)

This article defines Delphi and Policy Delphi research techniques; determines when either or both techniques might be appropriate as an organizational information-seeking strategy; identifies advantages and disadvantages associated with implementation; and identifies steps in planning a Delphi or Policy Delphi. (CT)

Explores the characteristics and practice of making policy decisions in educational administration. (JW)

Seven suggestions are provided to help superintendents plan and conduct more cohesive school board meetings: (1) research all proposals; (2) schedule time for discussion; (3) anticipate questions; (4) include background, rationale, and options for proposals; (5) present reports lucidly; (6) allow for independent exploration; and (7) follow up on…

Presents perspective of the executive director of the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS) on information networking, covering developments in the last 15 years, NCLIS activities, economic and political problems of networking, ownership and governance of networks and databases, and other difficult and challenging…

The relationship between developing a national identity and schooling is explored in the Canadian historical context. Emphases is placed on the constitutional difficulties faced by the federal government in evolving a national educational policy. (CJB)

Describes the development and content of a guide for developing and implementing a district policy for school counseling service in British Columbia. Discusses the composition and sponsorship of the committee, the process rather than prescriptive nature of the guide itself, and its utility for professionals. (Author/JAC)

Proposes groundwork for a coalition to address environmental education (EE) policies and practices in America for the next decade. Aims, priorities, and needs for the coalition are listed. They include upgrading competence of environmental educators, improving student experiences in EE, increasing EE literacy of citizens, and identifying key…