To compete effectively in the world of electronic reference, libraries must offer remote patrons a variety of index, abstract, and full text services, which are easy to access and which answer questions. A marketing alliance between electronic reference vendors and public libraries would ensure access, fair compensation for publishers and authors,…

Describes a study of fifth-grade students in Taiwan that explored the differential effects of intergroup competition on intragroup cooperation and interpersonal relationships within groups in a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) environment. Statistically significant differences were found between the two treatment conditions (with and without…

To comply with the district desegregation plan, the San Francisco Unified School District previously required higher scores for Chinese American applicants to its academic magnet high school than for more underrepresented groups. Examines the admissions debate, suggesting that exclusion of Asian and Latino concerns in district policymaking led to…

Analyzes, as a function of grade level, the representation of gender, competition, and violence in 17 top-selling software programs designed for mathematics education. Results indicate that mean percentages of violence, competition against the program and competition against a peer increase across grade level; mean percentages of female characters…

Interview responses of fifth- and sixth-grade gifted and talented children in resource programs revealed attitudes about their own abilities, competition, their school programs, expectations of others, and participation in special programs. A variety of social and emotional needs clearly emerged. (MSE)

Explains 2 decision-making problems presented to 188 undergraduates enrolled in introductory psychology classes to teach the principles governing individual and collective decisions. Shows individual interest outweighed mutual benefit. Promotes active learning about psychology and scientific skills while stimulating personal development (CH)

College and university development officers are encouraged to adjust their expectations of volunteers to the current reality of graduates' schedules and commitments. Five barriers to volunteering (economic, time and distance, language and cultural, environmental, and competitive) are identified, and techniques for overcoming them are offered. (MSE)

Trends in higher education that are pushing it from a principally public enterprise to a largely private one are examined, including the shift away from public financial support and greater internal management problems. An increasing market orientation is predicted, bringing price and demand into equilibrium, fostering privatization, and infusing…

Factors affecting concern about quality of higher education are examined in three contexts--the United States, Australia, and New Zealand. These factors include the economic climate, international competitiveness, public perceptions, and the role of government in determining the missions and activities of colleges and universities. (MSE)

The article identifies five themes of current school reform policies and efforts and evaluates their possible effects on programs for students with behavior disorders. They are (1) allowing more parental choice; (2) doing more with less; (3) achieving competitive academic excellence; (4) eliminating violence and disruptive behavior; and (5)…

Reviews recent trends in databases and online systems. Topics discussed include new access points for established databases; acquisitions, consolidations, and competition between vendors; European coverage; international services; online reference materials, including telephone directories; political and legal materials and public records;…

This survey of the 21 member institutions of 9 consortia in undergraduate social work education investigated the origin and development of collaborative programs, their structure and nature, and advantages and disadvantages. Results indicate that consortia that use rather than rival others' experiences are more successful. (Author/MSE)

Describes research that advocates flexible grouping patterns, based upon student needs, to increase instructional effectiveness and student achievement. Appropriate grouping in the classroom and in elementary school library resource centers is stressed, and benefits of cooperative learning as compared to competitive learning and individual…

Includes 26 articles on increasing workforce quality and competitiveness, the primary task of employment and training professionals. Looks at the larger picture, strategies, and decentralized national employment and training programs internationally. Examines debate over research methods, national research, and state and local efforts. Includes…

Known primarily for its tutoring and testing of grade-school and high-school students, for-profit Sylvan Learning Systems has developed interests in distance education, teacher education, English-language training, and college-level study outside the United States. The company is consciously stepping up its presence in areas associated with higher…