This speech outlines some criticisms of the voluntary accreditation associations as they now exist, responds to some of the criticisms, and sets forth ways in which the associations are improving their programs. Cited criticisms come from the community, professors, faculty associations, and from minority groups. The author notes that much of the…

The use of cut-off scores with criterion referenced tests is defended in this response to two papers by Gene Glass and Nancy Burton. Suggestions for setting cut-off scores are made. (JKS)

Those involved in higher education must be involved in the stimulation of intellect, and such stimulation must come from practiced scholarship. (JD)

The Council on Regional School Accrediting Commissions (CORSAC) is an association of school commissions from the six regional associations. Each of the member commissions accredits qualifying schools below the collegiate level. Discusses the common practices of the six school commissions. (Author/RK)

Many national curriculum leaders recognize the potential damage of the bandwagon approach to developing competency based education. Caution is urged in creating a balanced curriculum, one that will consider the necessary skills, capabilities, and knowledge in the areas of urgent global studies, human potential, interdependent competencies, and…

The minimum competency movement is a national response to concern about a supposed decline in standards in the nation's schools. This article addresses some vital questions about the movement that have been left unanswered. (Author/RK)

Gives an overview of accreditation in teacher education, a brief description of multicultural education today, some points clarifying the role of multicultural education in teacher education, and several areas of multicultural education/accreditation that need further study and research. (Author/RK)

At present 27 states have responded to the demand for basic education by mandating a new emphasis on accountability for their educators toward minimal competencies, usually in the three R's. Here is an examination of what is being requested, whether this is consistent with our own concept of education, and what basic skills students should have.…

Competency statements were developed by Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University faculty who had course responsibility in the school of Pharmacy. Specific statements regarding "must have" and "should have" competencies are presented in this article. (LBH)

The case of a Saudi Arabian student admitted to Princeton illustrates practices of using the admissions process as a means of soliciting gifts for the university. Issues of academic standards, special admissions, and confidentiality are discussed. (LBH)

Teachers should be required to have certain competencies before being accepted as the educators to implement a program aimed at cultural pluralism. Discusses the teaching procedures involved in bilingual bicultural education and recommendations for the training of bilingual educators. (Author/RK)

Literature on independent schools in Great Britain and the United States describe four major functions of the independent school: (1) providing an academic education with higher standards; (2) providing more desirable peer group associations, (3) providing status validation, and (4) enhancing opportunity for pursuing higher education. For journal…

Have higher grades brought happiness to the classroom? Article considered how the concern with happiness has affected students. (Author/RK)

Based on questionnaire survey responses from 45 Pennsylvania and New England institutions, a significant increase in honors awards is discussed and related to the overall national grade inflation previously documented. (LBH)

Draws attention to England's democratic Left's proper concern for educational standards. Calls for the democratic Left to formulate a new curriculum policy concerned with minimum standards of attainment for all children. (Editor/RK)