A model was developed to find out whether teachers can predict the success of their students on a specific test. Implications for curriculum development and changes in classroom instruction are discussed. (RB)

A systematic assessment procedure designed to increase success at buying supportable software is presented. Examples used are from programs for the IBM PC, but most comments apply to other software and to software for minicomputers and mainframes. (MLW)

Offers arguments in favor of condoning theoretical arguments and answers objections raised by critics of theoretical arguments. Recommends standards for improving the quality of theoretical arguments. (MM)

Outlines the detailed tasks involved in development of specifications for purchasing requirements. Includes forms of open specifications, basic content, group terms, measurements, and the wording of specifications. (MD)

Claims that the narrative paradigm recently proposed as a model for rhetorical criticism is problematic because of internal contradictions and inconsistencies. Argues that independent sources are lacking for judging the adequacy of a critic's claims about a text. (JD)

The emergence of a new, naturalistic, paradigm of inquiry has led to a demand for rigorous criteria that meet traditional standards of inquiry. Two sets are suggested, one of which, the "trustworthiness" criteria, parallels conventional criteria, while the second, "authenticity" criteria, is implied directly by new paradigm…

Identifies the purpose of academic debate (to teach students argumentative skills) and the characteristics that a debate paradigm must have to fulfill that purpose. Takes a functional view of the debate judge as one who judges argumentative practices, not one who decides policy issues as would a real-world decision maker. (PD)

Discusses the importance of two criteria often neglected on software evaluation forms: (1) the match between the instructor's objectives for a class and the objectives of the computer program and (2) the ease of transfer of the skills learned in the program to other situations. (AEA)

Illustrates some of the problems and the advantages of three programs designed for language arts instruction: "English Volume I" (MECC), "English SAT 1" (Microlab), and "Vocabulary Prompter" (Jagdstaffel). (AEA)

Fifty-six residential school adminstrators responded to a questionnaire on governance and policy issues. Results suggested seven conclusions, including that local school districts are the major source of referrals, there are no appreciable differences regionally in admissions policies, and parents are involved in placement, Individualized…

To determine the degree of controversy or consensus regarding definitions at the state level, questionnaires focusing on six learning disability topics were sent to each state education agency (SEA) and the District of Columbia. In general, more consensus than controversy exists when broad areas are considered. Changes in some SEA definitions…

Addresses the issues of why theory is practical and what makes a particular theory good. Theory serves a number of important functions (saves energy, mobilizes energy, and so on) in applied fields, such as social work. A good theory is dynamic, parsimonious, capable of resolving paradoxes, realistic, and comprehensive. (BB)

The findings of research on short forms of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales-Revised are used to illustrate points about three criteria for evaluating the usefulness of a short form. Results indicate there is little justification for regarding the three criteria as criteria. (Author/BL)

Discusses how paradigms, such as "tabula rasa," reduce the judge's influence as a critic. Suggests alternatives. (PD)

Discusses guidelines for ethics in academic debate. Covers obligations of debaters and examples of unethical conduct. Proposes gaming as a way to study and regulate ethics. (PD)