The convergence of US federal science and economic policy that began in earnest in the Reagan administration formed the first stage in an emerging post-Cold War drive toward technological innovation. A frenzy of new state-based initiatives now forms the Second Stage, further promoting universities as decisive tools for economic competitiveness.…

Although small, carefully managed voucher programs might provide a helpful safety valve for some disadvantaged children, policy makers should be under no illusion that such programs will address the fundamental challenge of providing an adequate education to the large numbers of such students in many urban centers. Contrary to the claims of many…

The Hungarian CIVITAS program, working with the Florida Law Related Education Association (FLREA) and researchers from the University of Central Florida, conducted a three-year evaluation of the "Citizen in a Democracy" competition. Over this period the program grew rapidly in size and quality, involving thousands of students and…

The question of whether school choice improves student outcomes persists. This digest explores issues surrounding school choice, highlighting major research findings. Overall, the ultimate impact of choice depends on how parents and schools respond to more schooling options and greater competition. Research indicates that greater parental…

This monograph offers reflections on the role of private higher education in American society. Chapter 1, "Scope and Diversity of Private Higher Education," defines private higher education and notes that private institutions run the gamut from liberal arts colleges to comprehensive colleges and universities, to specialized institutions, two-year…

The development of software licensing and distribution at the University of Waterloo for income during the last 15 years, problems peculiar to software as an intellectual property, and recent changes in the university's approach for legal and financial reasons are discussed. (MSE)

Factors examined in a sex-role combination study (male faculty-female student, etc.) include: student perception of the combination, grades received, teacher evaluation, time spent with instructor, competitive feelings, expressed need for supervision. Same-sex combinations were rated most highly. (MSE)

The role of the state in higher education is addressed and some of the fundamental conflicts between different approaches to the organization of universities are explored. Competition as it affects the three primary activities of the university--teaching, research, and service to the community--are examined. (MLW)

Total Quality Management is being implemented in American and British schools to improve educational outcomes. The 14 points of Deming's quality model and Porter's models of competition and drivers of cost provide a systematic, structured template to promote educational excellence and meet the demands of social, political, and economic forces.…

Discusses the cultural and philosophical influences that resulted in the establishment of the Olympic Games in ancient Greece. Examines the ancient Greek ideals of health, beauty, and intellect. Includes a table listing the dates of added competitions (boxing, pentathlon) to the contest. (MJP)

Discusses the results of research designed to determine if student science projects in Ohio meet the goals for science education as recommended by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA), and the Ohio Department of Education. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Examined choices made by adolescent girls in physical education classes when allowed to select from nine walking activities reflecting four themes (social, exercise/fitness, game-like, or competition). Students were significantly more likely to choose social over exercise/fitness activities, game-like or competitive over exercise/fitness…

Discusses online learning in higher education, including online bullies who try to control and intimidate other students; developing an ethics policy; course evaluations; faculty development of online courses and curriculum; student needs and differences in learning styles; Web-based course design; and competition from commercial ventures. (LRW)

A consensus is emerging about changes needed in higher education to improve quality. Consensus appears in the following fields: higher education's structure and system; resources; curriculum; quality of teaching; and what should be expected of students. One issue in public perception of quality is athletics. (MLW)

The U.S. must have the patience and courage to continue to build its research and development infrastructure and to reward innovation in a time of tight federal budgets, pressing international problems, and uncertainty in the private sector about the near-term economic outlook. Trade barriers must be removed also. (MLW)