The phenomenon of minimum competency testing (MCT) is explored, beginning with its origins in public concern for educational accountability. Three major themes appearing in the states enacting prescriptive legislation are described: state standards/state test (Florida); state standards/local test (Oregon); and local standards/local test…

Social science researchers and policy makers are not oriented toward supporting one another or sharing information that might be useful in solving social problems. Only recently have public funding agencies supported social science communication research; previously such funding came through private agencies. It seems likely that funds will…

A drug abuse education program was implemented in grades five, seven, and nine in the Baltimore City Public Schools. Unit plans outline the curriculum content and learning activities for each of the three grades. The major objective in grade five is to familiarize pupils with various medically used drugs and to develop an understanding that they…

Elaborates the concept of "keystone target variable selection" for school psychological practice. "Keystone variables" refers to relatively narrow targets for change having the most widespread benefits to clients. The hypothesized benefits of selecting keystone targets for change include more effective and efficient interventions. (KW)

Counselors who work with children and adolescents are well aware of the problems, frustrations, and feelings of hopelessness that these youngsters often bring to the counseling session. However, counselors may be less aware of what is happening in society-at-large. The 1980s and early 1990s have been characterized by high unemployment. It is clear…

Although popular literature cites between 25,000 and 100,000 parental child snatchings a year, no empirical studies have been conducted to support this estimate. To determine an empirical estimate of the extent of parental child snatchings, telephone interviews were conducted by Louis Harris and Associates with a representative cross section of…

Article discussed team teaching and new tools for planning and supervision being developed at the Pennsylvania Advancement School. (Author/RK)

Limits must be placed on attempts to find a medical solution to certain social ills. (Editor)

The rapid growth of minimum competency testing (by 1981, 36 states in the United States had mandated some form of minimum competency testing) has led to increased legal challenges of the existing testing programs. Three issues have been raised and are summarized in this brief overview: (1) constitutional claims under the due process clause; (2)…

This article presents findings from a study which gathered expert opinion about the major obstacles to acceptance of computers in instruction and suggestions for future action. The study had two phases: a questionnaire and a conference. (JA)

A minute-by-minute account of one Friday in the work day of a principal who is a 40-year veteran of the Battle of Detroit. (EA)

A look at cable television in a realistic context, and its future in both the United States and the world. (HB)