The digest is based on a full length report (with the same title) on postsecondary developmental programs. The full report provides a definitive review of the literature and institutional practice on the topic. Postsecondary developmental programs at institutions of higher education encompass a variety of courses and services that are conducted to provide assistance to individuals who have been denied regular admission to the institution because of failure to meet specified admission and placement requirements or because of predicted risk in meeting the requirements of college-level courses. These services focus primarily on skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and study and test-taking strategies, as well as personal adjustment and other affective variables crucial to success in the college curriculum. Such programs began evolving as early as the mid-1800s when in response to the needs of underprepared students, programs classified as college preparatory served many of the same goals. Changes in labeling of preparatory programs are associated with the changes in student populations (reflecting the wide range of student statuses). Many developmental program models have emerged as a result of the growing diversity among enrollees. Remedial programs are perceived by their supporters as additions to, not replacements for, a required curriculum. They have helped fulfill the mission of providing equal educational opportunity in a democratic society. Enrollment in these programs has increased in recent years, and the trend will most likely continue into the 1990s and beyond. Contains 6 references. (SM)