Elective home education (EHE) is a legal alternative to school in England but the statutory requirements for provision are remarkably vague. This book explores the use of EHE by Gypsy and Traveller families. The accounts of their experiences and their views about education spaces reveal the racism and discrimination their children encounter in…

This research examines the linkages between ability grouping, classroom social and ethnic segregation, and civic competences (understood here as referring to attitudes and behaviours as well as knowledge and skills). It does so by analysing data from the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) Civic Education…

This is the third in a series of briefs summarizing findings from the newest and most rigorous research related to racial and socioeconomic diversity in public schools. The studies on which this brief is based were published recently in three special issues of the peer-reviewed journal, "Teachers College Record," edited by Professors…

Research on globalization and education involves the study of intertwined worldwide discourses, processes, and institutions affecting local educational practices and policies. The four major theoretical perspectives concerning globalization and education are world culture, world systems, postcolonial, and culturalist. The major global educational…

This report proposes 40 specific steps that can be taken to strengthen arts advocacy efforts in the region of the United States. Some steps can be taken immediately; others may take time to realize. There are five primary areas of recommended activities in this strategy, with simple "how to get started" instructions: (1)…

Presents interviews with a female college graduate and a male factory director concerning women graduates' opportunities in China's labor force. Suggests that Chinese managers fear that women will abandon job obligations in favor of family concerns. Lists four reasons that the factory director gave for failing to hire female workers. (SG)

Discusses a study of the attitudes of children of the former Soviet Union between the ages of 10 and 15. Reports results showing children's uncertainty about the future of Communism and dislike for Stalin but support for state ownership of property. Presents student views on life plans, values, and personal interests. (SG)

This report examines the educational experiences of students with disabilities from the students' perspectives. It was prepared to encourage state education agency staff and those involved in school reform to hear the ideas of students and to expand ways in which students can be involved in planning for change. Themes identified in the report…

The enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July, 1990 created the need for rehabilitationists to have a thorough knowledge of the provisions of this complex legislation. This document, divided into five lessons, examines issues from the perspective of the rehabilitation professional. Lesson 1, "Introduction and…

The paper examines the rights of mentally handicapped people to marry and to bear and raise children. It discusses United States and Canadian societal attitudes, laws, and constitutional issues in terms of the incapacity of mentally handicapped individuals to contract to marry, sterilization as a condition to marriage, and the concept of…

Working with schools and communities across the United States, the Education Commission of the States has learned that people want to express their opinions about schools in their communities. This guide was designed to help engage all sectors of the community in conversations about education. It is suggested that holding a series of meetings…

Discusses former Soviet schools' inadequacy in promoting students' political involvement. Reports that students can be grouped according to their social attitudes as (1) conformists; (2) negativists or nihilists; and (3) those with critical, creative attitudes toward majority opinion. Argues that schools can promote independent thinking by…

Discusses the conflicts and controversies associated with public acceptance of certain teaching materials and textbooks. Cites specific court cases and outlines the issues involved in the adoption process. Reviews efforts taken by different states in addressing the quality of instructional materials. (ML)

Presents survey results on the movement to abolish corporal punishment in public education. Reports that fundamentalist Protestants are more supportive of corporal punishment than others. Predicts that religion is likely to be the route for public mobilization on this issue. Suggests that the greater punitiveness of Protestant fundamentalists…

This report for the National Academy of Engineering's Office of Public Awareness represents the second phase of an examination of public opinion about engineering and technology. This document presents an analysis of six qualitative, focused group discussions or focus groups. Five of these groups were college educated Americans and one was…