Analyzed and validated revised versions of the 2000 Word Level and the University Word Level of Nation's Vocabulary Levels Test, which can be administered for course planning and placement in language programs. Japanese high school and university students (n=496) completed four forms of the 2000 Word Test, and 464 completed four forms of the…

Examines child and family risk factors and behavioral indexes of youths with emotional and behavioral disorders to determine critical factors that predicted the restrictiveness of their educational placements. Discusses findings in the context of system of care efforts to reform service system response to youth with special-education and…

Considers the computerization of an English-language placement test for delivery on the World Wide Web. Describes a pilot study to investigate potential bias against students who lack computer familiarity or have negative attitudes towards technology, and assesses the usefulness of the test as a placement instrument by comparing the accuracy of…

Discusses cases that reveal the impact of teacher expectations on the accuracy or inaccuracy of self-concepts of children with exceptionalities from minority-group backgrounds. Fifteen teacher beliefs that will benefit new and seasoned practitioners as they identify, assess, place, and instruct minority children are provided. (CR)

Lubbock (Texas) High School, a successful magnet and neighborhood school, discovered the benefits of flexible scheduling over 15 years ago. The unique schedule and other organizational structures have sustained a successful magnet program, created a diversity-enhancing culture, and revitalized a school near closure in 1978. (MLH)

Data from 882 high school students in 48 mathematics classes demonstrate that student achievement is significantly lower in general-track classes than in college-preparatory classes, with achievement in transition classes (classes in California and New York bridging the gap between elementary and college-preparatory mathematics) falling between…

Describes the extensive career and vocational guidance provided to Japanese students. Japanese schools are required by law to help students in their job-seeking activities and this has resulted in the development of a vast array of counseling services. Discusses the symbiotic relationships among school, labor, government ministries, and…

This study compared three levels of inclusion (special education only, integrated special education, and mainstream placements) on the cognitive and language development of 66 preschool children with disabilities. Analysis of pre- to postgains revealed that integrated special education produced gains that significantly exceeded the rate of normal…

A journalist looks at the qualities of elite public high schools, examining how they promote academic rigor and high achievement and how these variables can be measured. The role of advanced placement programs in setting high standards and motivating students is highlighted. (MSE)

International adoption and areas of losses and gains are described with respect to biological parent, adopted child, and adoptive parent in terms of the individual and the relationship between individuals. Deficits and benefits specific to donor and recipient countries are addressed as well as bereavement issues inherent in the process. (JBJ)

Investigates the performance of students from different language backgrounds, using data from a computer-adaptive Japanese grammar test developed as a placement tool. Findings indicate item difficulties to be quite different for each group of candidates and imply that when candidates are from a different background from that of the trial…

Discusses the mutually beneficial collaborations between corporations and educational institutions and explains how these partnerships benefit students, faculty, universities and corporations by attracting women and minorities with educational curriculum that is more exciting, and reforming educational curriculum to train students for specific…

This reprint of an article on how students who enter college early perform academically and socially is preceded by a commentary that discusses the need to provide gifted students with the option of entering college early because of the lack of college-level courses at the high school level. (Contains references.) (CR)

This article summarizes research findings related to the characteristics, identification, and programming for gifted students with learning disabilities. It also presents data from 2 projects that examined the identification and characteristics of this population. Research-generated recommendations are provided and the need for a continuum of…

Evaluation of out-of-district special education placement costs in the 15 largest Massachusetts public school districts found the criterion school district (which had developed a system-wide approach to behavioral intervention) had the lowest per capita cost, lowest percentage of total school budget consumed by out-of-district placements, and the…