Educational philosophy can contribute only modestly to educational policymaking. However, educational policymakers must acknowledge the extent that the content and context of their work is saturated with philosophically oriented assumptions, concepts, beliefs, values, and commitments. Philosophical illumination is needed, but how much? (Contains…

Reviews existing legal guidance and precedents for governing boards of colleges and universities considering extending or denying domestic-partner (both homosexual and heterosexual) benefits. Considers work force demographics, legal issues, examples of policy implementation, and long- term financial impact of such policies. (DB)

Redesigned five displays for communicating results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 1994 reading assessment using principles developed by H. Wainer (1997). Responses from 10 educators show more accurate and faster responses to questions asked after the redesign. Discusses implications for information communication in…

This overview of the Irish educational system examines vocational education and training, the role of the European Union, legislative measures, and institutional reforms. The following challenges are discussed: economic infrastructure, skill shortages, and the inclusiveness of the educational system. (SK)

Argues for what activist technical writing research might look like, lays out an understanding of institutions that is helpful for influencing public policy, and illustrates promises and problems of both positions by using a case study focused on local HIV/AIDS policy making. Suggests that professional writing researchers can impact policy by…

As principals become more accountable for student achievement, evaluation policies and procedures should be carefully crafted. Evaluation should focus on school improvement, be performance-based and aligned with job junctions, define performance expectations, promote buy-in and collaboration among administrators, promote growth and improved…

Discusses efforts to enhance connections among schools, homes, and communities and suggests some major implications for the changing role of school counselors. Emphasizes the role of policy in successful collaborations and urges policymakers to support the development of appropriately comprehensive and multifaceted school-community collaborations.…

Describes a qualitative study that explores the perspectives of 16 senior student affairs officers. Describes the predominance of student learning as an overarching framework for understanding their work. Findings suggest that the work of student affairs remains largely unchanged on many campuses, except for an increased emphasis on student…

Explores enrollment of underrepresented minority students in dental schools. Describes challenges to affirmative action, major minority recruitment programs, where minorities are enrolled, the Opportunities for Minority Students in U.S. Dental Schools (OMSUSDS) report, and American Dental Education Association (ADEA) strategies to enhance…

Looks at the issues involved in long-term bullying and draws on the findings of two studies, both of which have relevance to the phenomenon of long-term bullying. Outcomes of studies suggest that a small percentage of students may be bullied for a long period of time and that this more persistent bullying may need focused long-term solutions to…

Reviews the development of information technology in public schools in Jordan from 1984-1998. Concludes that the highly centralized nature of the Jordanian educational system and the comprehensive policy of the Directorate of Educational Computing have made the introduction of computers in schools less difficult. (Author/LRW)

Finding helpful education research often seems an onerous task. However, the federal government and many research organizations are taking steps to give policymakers and practitioners access to useful, readable research. Sidebars list addresses for the research sources cited. (MLF)

Examines the debate as to whether migration is a basic human right or whether the claims of outsiders are superseded by the principle of national sovereignty and the moral obligation of the state to do the best for its own citizens. Neither approach provides a clear answer. (SLD)

Focuses on mass immigration to the United States and the country's responses to various groups of immigrants. It is concluded that the United States has used international agreements regarding the settlement of large numbers of people only when they have facilitated government action. (SLD)

Reviews recent legal decisions that relate to sexual assault and harassment and their practical implications. Institutional administrators need to understand pertinent legal actions and revise policies accordingly. Responses to incidents and prevention programs should be regularly reviewed and assessed. Includes a bibliography and a list of…