It is proposed that there are four ways higher education can contribute to the educational reform movement: (1) development of new academic standards and assessment methods; (2) higher priority for teacher education; (3) cooperation with schools to improve college preparation and enrollment rates; and (4) more political and financial support. (MSE)

Study examined how British teachers' attitudes and classroom practice were influenced by government-imposed innovations, noting English teachers' responses to the 1993 Standard Assessment Tasks for 14-year-olds. Results noted teachers initially had strong solidarity in their disapproval of the tests, but their reasons for disapproval varied…

Explains the origin and purpose of the National Science Education Standards. Defines what is meant by the term standards and describes the function of the National Science Education Standards as contributing to the development of a scientifically literate population. Contains 22 references. (DDR)

Identifies technological, psychological, ideological, and sociological barriers to success in science for all students and proposes ways to eliminate them. By identifying and removing impediments to learning, greater numbers of students will reach the higher national standards as reflected in the "National Science Education Standards"…

Reports on a study that explores student perspectives on the transfer to A-level chemistry from GCSE chemistry. Explores the attitudes of groups of new A-level chemistry students at a sixth-form college. (DDR)

Discusses the importance of evaluating the inquiry process of learners in order to develop independent learners who are information literate. Highlights include national and state evaluation standards; school districts' curriculum documents that reflect information literacy with a focus on process; learner evaluation criteria; and assessment tools…

Examines similarities and differences in the institutions that authorize postsecondary technical education in the United Kingdom and Japan, focusing on the mechanisms for awarding degrees (quality evaluation vs. credit accumulation), structural differences, depth and scope of operation, legislative and policy-making approach, adaptation to system…

College leaders make powerful statements about institutional values by the characteristics they measure and the activities they support. Trustees and presidents can focus on liberal arts goals by making sure students and parents understand what a liberal arts education represents; setting high academic standards; emphasizing teaching, learning,…

Offers a first appraisal of the life and work of George Collins, a leading figure in the unionization of school teachers in late-19th-century England. Discusses his impact on the prescribed social status of teachers, the organization of teachers into associations for mutual improvement, and the formation of national educational policies. (DSK)

This article reviews the research related to minimum competency testing (MCT) as a requirement for high school graduation for students with learning disabilities. It examines whether inclusive MCT requirements lead to positive educational outcomes, raises issues of accommodations and alternative diplomas, possible increased dropout rates, and…

Discusses the Collaborative Academic Preparation Initiative, an effort initiated by Charles Reed, Chancellor of the California State University System, to reduce remedial education through collaboration with public school efforts to raise standards. Activities include curriculum coordination, workshops for high school teachers, and tutoring…

This article shows how the Council for Exceptional Children's (CEC) standards for the preparation and licensure of special educators can provide guidance to all, whether embarking on careers or seeking enhancement through professional development opportunities. Challenges and strategies for implementing the CEC standards using collaboration and…

The compelling ideas underlying the standards movement are being distorted by poor implementation and political opportunism. Higher standards will probably not affect the nation's already booming economy or close the white/minority achievement gap. An emerging rebellion, driven by negative testing consequences, is eroding political support.…

Describes programs in Florida that help teachers integrate technology into their classrooms. Highlights include technology literacy for students; creating learning environments; Web sites; state standards; the Florida Information Resource Network; the Instructional Technology Resource Center; and the development of an online high school. (LRW)

Characterizes Subject Review, a new scrutiny process for British higher education, evaluating its effectiveness against the purposes it has set itself in the area of funding policy, enhancement of provision, and public information. The paper offers a case study of factors which come into account when systems for measuring the quality of higher…