Studies the educational position and language proficiency level of various ethnic groups in the Netherlands. The differences in these is explained by means of several background characteristics, including parents' level of education and social status. (27 references) (Author/CK)

The policy of open school choice in the Netherlands has increased the isolation of ethnic minority students in urban public schools as white flight occurs. Parents and students tend to separate themselves from those who are different, a finding with implications for school choice in the United States. (SLD)

A discussion of vocational education in the Netherlands covers the options available to students, enrollment and distribution trends, testing, and the link between vocational education and employment. (MSE)

The Dutch binary system of higher education and trends toward increased vocationalism are discussed. The article notes the governmental policy to encourage the technical and natural sciences and explores new relationships between the university and higher vocational education sectors. A policy of parity in resources with clear distinction of the…

The Netherlands is currently considering a change from special schools for special education students to a more inclusive, demand-oriented model of finance and provision. The experiences of Germany, England, and Austria suggest that "pupil-bound budgets" may strengthen parental choice and support inclusion, but may also lead to budget…

Efforts aimed at solving the enormous shortage of higher education graduates in science and technology in the Netherlands should start by evaluating what is available in this area. Research shows that the country's vast resources include considerable reserves of science and technology talent. These reserves comprise students who, although having…

This paper discusses the contribution of international studies on educational effectiveness in the light of 4 papers presented at the new ICSEI Methodology of Research and Effectiveness (MORE) Network in Barcelona in January 2005 and published in this issue of the journal. A brief historical overview is used to provide a context for these papers…

The EERJ roundtable took as its point of departure the experience of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) Centre for Educational Research and Innovation (CERI) in carrying out policy research. CERI has conducted four reviews of national educational research and development (in New Zealand, England, Mexico and…

In inclusive education different pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and high ability pupils, can be stimulated to learn according to their capacities and potentials. The research question concentrates on the design features of inclusive education that will optimally promote the motivation and learning processes and outcomes of…

This guide provides advice and recommendations on designing a system of external quality assessment (EQA) for systems and institutions of higher education. Based on a Dutch national model, key features of the suggested system include: ownership by higher education institutions themselves although sanctioned by the government; primary aims of…

This documentary study is based on 12 national dossiers on vocational education and training in the tourist industry. Part 1 is an overview of school vocational training diplomas and curricula and the provision of training programs in the tourist industry. The description of the provision of training in this sector is followed by a review of…

These two papers look at international aspects of quality in higher education from contrasting perspectives. The first paper, "Higher Education Quality: A European Dimension" by John Brennan asks whether there is a distinctive European dimension to quality in higher education and, if so, what are its implications for British institutions…

This six-chapter monograph describes the development of adult basic education (ABE) in the Netherlands. It documents a process from the development of literacy by enthusiastic volunteers to professionalized and institutionalized adult education, which is still evolving. In chapter 1, a general outline of the problem of functional illiteracy…

This booklet consists of four papers by separate authors that show how the Dutch National Institute for Curriculum Development (SLO) tries to improve the quality of education through curriculum research and development. The first text, by Johan C. van Bruggen, provides a general introduction to SLO, showing how it generates curriculum knowledge…

Describes the goals and results of the Informatics Stimulation Plan (INSP). Reviews inservice programs and school programs in vocational higher education, primary and special education and secondary education in the Netherlands. Suggests priorities for new policies of the Ministry of Education. (CW)