Performance standards are a powerful means to begin the process of systemic educational change. An educational culture must be created in which standards become the internalized goals of everyone in the system. Principles for developing internalized standards are discussed, along with appropriate government roles. (JDD)

This article defines academic standards; compares content, performance, and delivery standards; and summarizes standards-setting activities currently underway with examples given from mathematics and science. It considers how and why these efforts are likely to affect all educators, including special educators, and all students with and without…

In response to standards set by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, K-12 teachers were interviewed to investigate issues related to implementing standards in K-12 fiber optic mathematics classes. Issues include: achieving student-centered classrooms; incorporating technology into distance education; and structuring assessment so more…

Describes a pilot project to deal with the problem of articulating postsecondary language study. This project consists of 1 elementary school immersion teacher and 21 foreign language teachers from high schools and colleges. The project has the potential of effecting a statewide adoption of proficiency standards and an improvement in the quality…

A critical problem in Japanese high school education is lack of fit between uniform curriculum and students' heterogeneous interests and abilities. This article explores policy initiatives to restructure and diversify high school education. Innovative high schools with "comprehensive" programs are emerging at a time when U.S. schools are…

Explains some dimensions of scientific literacy and introduces a framework for contemporary reform. Describes some aspects of the National Science Education Standards including its advocacy for equal access to science education. (19 references) (JRH)

A survey of 25 teachers from special schools in Great Britain concerning issues of assessment for Key Stage 1 of the National Curriculum reports on teacher training, administrative help, use of teacher assessment, reporting results, assessment modification, classroom organization, and pupil reactions. Curriculum implications are noted. (DB)

This discussion considers implications of the British National Curriculum for young students with multiple sensory impairments, suggesting that "disapplication" is preferable, to allow emphasis on basic skills, followed by application of a modified curriculum at a later stage in the child's schooling. (DB)

New Standards Project directors believe that U.S. educational system must educate all students to high standards. Type of test administered heavily influences classroom practice. New system, consisting of portfolios; performance-based matrix exam tasks, projects, and exhibitions; and work selected by districts, teachers, and students will extend…

Developing national academic standards may improve students' preparation for work or college. However, any proposed new national assessment system will be doomed to failure if seen as the cure-all for the country's educational ills. The contributors to this "NASSP Bulletin" issue examine numerous challenges associated with using tests as a tool to…

British researchers examined the impact of a new teacher training accreditation system on training institutions. The paper discusses interviews with institutions regarding accreditation, examining factors which influenced and constrained interviewees' perspectives and institutional responses. It notes ways in which staff took advantage of…

Broader adult literacy in scientific matters is needed urgently in the United States, to improve education at all levels, to restore American leadership in science and technology, and ultimately, for a better informed population. This responsibility rests with colleges and universities. (MSE)

Reasons for differences in academic standards in new and established South African universities are attributed to a fragmented educational system, disparities in student enrollment and staffing, and lack of a culture of learning. Areas requiring attention before quality assurance can be implemented are identified, and recommendations are made.…

Provides an annotated bibliography of 17 sources on accreditation and its effects upon 2-year colleges, citing general articles as well as specific self-evaluation studies, and documents on educational outcomes, outcomes assessment, and accreditation as a planning tool. (MAB)

The literature shows a strong connection between education standards and economic development, but the mechanisms are many and complex. Four human capital development approaches are available: redesigning and rebuilding the foundation (scrapping the back-to-basics approach); stressing applications skills required by high-performance organizations;…