The author argues against specialized education programs for rural children in developing nations, asserting that these children's education should not essentially differ from that considered suitable for urban children. For a contrasting opinion, see the article by David R. Evans (pp232-43). (See AA 533 194.) (SJL)

Reacting to the preceding article (pp216-21) by Elinor G. Barber, the author argues against a single formal system of general education for both rural and urban areas of developing nations. (See AA 533 193.) (SJL)

In two surveys of freshmen students, academic needs were found to be of primary importance, compared to social and personal needs. Results provide clear direction for orientation program planners to emphasize the student's academic experience, with indications that a higher retention rate for the institution may result. (Author/JAC)

Discusses problems associated with communication in rural areas to promote participation in development programs. Suggests that success of such programs depends on continued government policy in favor of citizen participation in agricultural and rural development. (SK)

A survey of recruitment officers in England and Wales concerning the entry to employment of young people who leave school with no formal qualifications or with qualifications below the GCE A level is discussed. Findings suggest that employers are not dissatisfied with their recruits. (Author/MLW)

The Preadmission Counseling Program produces better informed students and fewer no-shows from application to matriculation. The home visit group had the greatest "show" rate and were better persisters. The resources committed produced a good investment. (JAC)

Cites the inadequacy of traditional counseling services in helping developmental education students comprehend grading options, registration policies, and other components of the educational bureaucracy. Suggests an academic intervention strategy to correct this situation, incorporating student orientation, systematic monitoring of student…

Freshmen placed the greatest responsibility for their low grades on their own lack of motivation, improper study habits, and inattention to school work. Because of the predicted decline in the number of college-age youths in the 1980s, schools need to put more emphasis on retaining students. (Author)

This issue presents some excerpts from the Commonwealth Conference on Non-Formal Education for Development, held in New Delhi, India, January 22-February 2, 1979, concerning the concept and tasks of nonformal education. Includes a few observations and recommendations from each of the Conference's 12 committees. (MF)

Describes the Comprehensive Vocational Motivation Program for high school students with special needs. The program includes personal and vocational counseling, help in locating social services, development of vocational skills and part-time employment, motivation activities, and crisis intervention. Programs are tailored to individual needs. (JAC)

Data from a standardized reading test and student background information were correlated to determine relationships. Self-assessed reading scores and other data may be used for predicting retention, academic performance, and reading ability. Differences were found between persisters and dropouts on these variables. (Author)

This paper urges increased educator and community agency collaboration in preventing failure among students with special needs, including students with disabilities. A chart compares networking, coordination, cooperation, and collaboration and distinguishes among them in terms of types of interaction, examples, impact on students, and impact on…

Solid research evidence links smaller schools to fewer discipline problems, lower dropout rates, higher student participation levels, and steadier academic progress. Large buildings are no obstacle. Creating small schools requires top administrators to lend impetus and support, facilitate teacher volunteer groups, develop clear policies, adjust…

Describes the Senior Project, a program at California State University, Fresno, designed to help children at risk of school failure. The project stresses one-on-one mentoring of at-risk, limited-English-speaking children by Liberal Studies/teacher preparation majors. Plans for most sessions feature reading and writing activities, simple science…

Simple methods for detecting attrition (nonresponse) in longitudinal evaluations are reviewed, focusing on regression-based analyses of data from a longitudinal evaluation. The approaches are illustrated with data from the Fort Bragg Evaluation, an evaluation of a major demonstration in children's mental health services. (SLD)