Discusses the difficulties in using cost-benefit analysis in education, examines in detail some of the documents supporting the modified libertarian position, and traces the development of policy on school choice. Documents the various new forms of selection that accompany increased choice and considers problems of social segregation. (MJP)

A reporter returned to his undergraduate institution, the University of Pennsylvania, to learn why tuition has risen so much in recent decades, and how the university spends the income. The complexity of administering the university enterprise is highlighted, and some perceived inequities are identified. Topics discussed include endowment funds,…

Analyzed Chicago Longitudinal Study data to determine correlates of preschool participation. Found that participation was associated with significantly higher levels of school readiness, achievement, and educational attainment, and with lower rates of child maltreatment, juvenile delinquency, special education placement, and grade retention.…

Presents a variety of innovative, inexpensive, and effective uses for photography that have been seen in elementary and secondary school classrooms. Activities in four areas are included: curriculum enhancement in literature, writing, science, social studies, and art; problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity; school public relations; and…

To improve instructional computer use by university faculty, an inservice program consisting of showcases, seminars, and workshops was funded, designed, and implemented. The program proved to be a cost-effective way for administrators to promote classroom use of computers by fostering faculty's confidence and computer self-efficacy. Seminar topics…

Recent forms of technology which have essentially altered the types of services that libraries can provide are discussed in five articles. The areas covered include the problematic aspects of automating reference services, a successful goal oriented approach to automating reference services, and the impact of new technologies on school media…

Examines issues that librarians need to address when remodeling or designing school libraries. Topics discussed include the librarian's role in decision making; cost considerations; evaluation of present services as well as future needs; the importance of communication; location; library technology; furniture; and the role of architects and…

Reports the results of a survey of shared library facilities and describes some typical organizational and management structures. Effective organizational models are discussed. In general, the survey found that there are significant cost savings and service enhancements resulting from a shared facility arrangement along with some additional…

Women have a higher prevalence of depressive disorders compared to men. The current system of care for women with depressive disorders provides significant financial barriers for patients with lower incomes to access mental health services. Primary care systems are used extensively by women and have the potential to diagnose patients at early…

In preparation for a conference held in Paris, France, in November 1994, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development launched a 5-year program that involved 20 countries studying the changing role of vocational and technical education and training (VOTEC). A synthesis of national studies was prepared on three related issues: (1) the…

This report describes Copenhagen (Denmark) Business School Library's (CBSL) use of performance measurement to manage the quality of library services and facilities. The CBSL quality management program consists of: a statement of strategic goals of development and operation, including a focus on users, good service, efficient internal functions,…

This study shows how performance measurement can be developed to take advantage of the most advanced computer software and hardware now available. The "Toolbox" study was commissioned by the European Commission (EC) and undertaken by De Montfort University in partnership with Essex County Libraries and the Library and Information…

This report describes the strategic directions and accomplishments of the University and Community College System of Nevada (UCCSN) for 1995-97. First, the System's Board of Regents are described and strategic directions identified by the Regents in April 1996 are reviewed. Funding and goals for the 1995-97 biennium are then discussed, indicating…

This synthesis of research on alternative assessment methods in teacher education reviews literature on performance assessment, describing the various types of assessment discussed by M. Priestley (1982), including: (1) actual performance assessments (work-sample tests, identification tests, supervisor ratings, peer ratings, and self-assessments);…

What is known about the cost effectiveness of interactive courseware (ICW) is reviewed, and issues that remain are summarized. Effect size is used for reporting the effectiveness of ICW programs. Two ICW media are considered: computer-based instruction and interactive videodisc instruction. Effect sizes for computer-based instruction have been…