Conducted a survey of the ways colleges and universities apply the student credit hour and the extent to which time is still used as a primary basis for awarding credits. Responses of 38 institutions show that most 4-year institutions do not have internal policies to define credit hours, and that credit hours are defined and awarded…

Summarizes current research on the role of the federal government in defining or enforcing the credit hour measure in higher education, focusing on the role of the U.S. Department of Education in shaping the credit hour system. The federal government shows interest in moving away from focusing on administrative matters to issues of academic policy…

Fourteen nursing students in Wales reported on their use of accreditation of prior learning (APL) to obtain credit. Most had difficulty reflecting on prior learning and maintaining motivation over the length of the process. APL was felt to be worthwhile; students developed self-esteem, reflective writing skills, and greater appreciation for…

Describes school board policy issues related to the content, credit, and cost of online learning. (PKP)

Describes the Bush administration's recently proposed economic stimulus package and the Democrats' rival tax-cutting plan, and discusses the impact of the proposed reduction or elimination of taxes on corporate dividends on middle-income families. Considers the extent to which families would benefit from the administration's package and reiterates…

Various assessment methods were tested for recognition of prior learning in rural industry: challenge tests, on the job, portfolios, interviews, and case studies. Regardless of method, the process was time consuming, labor intensive, and costly. Successful use will depend on finding ways to improve cost effectiveness. (SK)

Three qualities form the foundation of college-level learning: (1) conceptual knowledge--articulation of concepts, theories, and principles; (2) generalizable knowledge; and (3) courses traditionally taught in college--excluding secondary courses, noncredit programs, popular learning, and vocational courses. (SK)

Examination of data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth found that a woman's wages relate positively to early return to work after childbirth; higher family income delays return; income did not affect child care choice; greater child care tax credits increased early return; and tax credits did not affect child care choice, but predicted…

A survey of 400 secondary agriculture teachers (241 responses) showed that those with science credentials were more likely to teach both agriculture courses receiving science credit and nonagriculture science courses. Science credentials and credits were more likely to benefit agricultural than science programs. Ag teachers with science…

Students in a macroeconomics course (n=132) were compared on grade point average, academic efficacy, credit hours accumulated, and study hours/habits. Academic efficacy and study habits significantly explained achievement. The amount of study time had no significant impact. Scholastic Assessment Test scores and credit hours explained achievement…

Describes the efforts of Village Ventures, a company that manages early stage venture capital funds and invests in promising companies, to develop markets that are as rich in intellectual capital as the top 10 venture markets but substantially cheaper to live in. These are primarily college towns with a high potential for launching technology…

Describes the comprehensive Welsh system of education and training, including a national career information and guidance service. The system focuses on credit-based qualifications and a holistic approach to academic and vocational learning. (SK)

A university's financing choices cover many shades of gray. Some off-balance-sheet financing uses no debt capacity, while others represent or imply full financial commitment. Many others fall in between. The choices made by a number of institutions in financing facility expansions or improvements are discussed, and the Moody's Investors Service…

Provides multiple workable solutions financial aid offices can offer students throughout their college experience to deal with debt: preventive solutions for avoiding problems with credit card debt, holistic solutions for other related problems, and remedial solutions for existing problems. (EV)

A survey of British providers of women's education following legislation requiring accreditation found that, despite advantages of credit programs, the change caused problems for the most disadvantaged women. Credits and outcomes-based assessment deter some participants, curriculum design and delivery are more prescribed, and flexibility is…