Factors that affect the attainment of the baccalaureate degree by urban students are addressed. Attention is directed to: characteristics and aspirations of urban students attending public institutions in urban areas, problems and roles of urban community colleges and universities, performance of urban students, transfer from two- to four-year…

This document is intended to provide the higher education community with information from recent and classic research studies that can serve as a guide to improving the climate for diversity on campus. The first section of the report examines the literature on campus climate for diversity, the experiences of various racial/ethnic groups, and the…

This ERIC Digest reviews research data on young urban, low income, and often minority parents and their involvement in schooling for themselves and their children. A look at the demographics of this subgroup shows that families headed by single teenage mothers comprise the fastest growing category of family groups, particularly among African…

This monograph looks at Chicano participation in higher education to date and pressing issues for increased participation in the 21st century. An exploration of how Chicanos relate generally to the national education system cites low academic achievement which contributes to relative social and cultural isolation. Isolation coupled with…

The need for higher education to shift from a policy of nondiscrimination to one of affirmative action is examined, with note taken of the clear opportunity for higher education to take advantage of faculty positions being vacated due to retirement during the mid-to-late 1990s. Preparations can be made now to provide opportunities for minority…

The purpose of this paper is to identify those programs and processes currently using the components, factors, and behaviors that have been described in the literature as characteristic of more effective schools, and to synthesize findings from these programs and processes carrying out effective schooling practices. Following an introduction,…

This report addresses issues related to the increasing growth of early intervention programs to encourage high school graduation and college attendance among students from low-income and minority groups. It first presents a brief review of the societal goals of equality for the nation's education system. It then defines the programs "early…

The "ERIC Review" announces research results, publications, and new programs relevant to each issue's theme. This issue focuses on science and mathematics education for students in grades K-8. Articles include: "The New Three R's: The Importance of Science and Mathematics Education" (Steven J. Rakow); "When Should Children…

The convergence of three trends makes service to minority students an imperative for continuing education: (1) increasing proportions of diverse groups in the U.S. population and work force; (2) continuing education and retraining as keys to survival in a workplace of change; and (3) declining college enrollments of diverse populations and…

A one-page introduction is followed by summaries of articles and documents on teacher competency testing. George F. Madaus argues that, although tests serve some useful functions, treating them as a major mechanism for reforming education is questionable. Peter A. Garcia examines the negative impact of testing on minority teachers and minorities…

The document contains summaries of papers and ensuing discussions presented at a 1985 symposium on exceptional American Indian children and youth. The opening address (by Beverly Valley, a parent and school board member) stresses the role of parents and the need for less culturally biased testing. Two papers deal with parent and family…

Innovative programs of school reform and research for diverse student populations have tended to focus on specific cultural, linguistic, or ethnic populations and on specific local communities. Findings from this body of research over the years have resulted in a core of principles for designing and implementing programs for at-risk students. Five…

This analysis critically examines the cost controversy in higher education with an eye to resolving the crisis which is currently serving to exacerbate public willingness to fund higher education. An introduction touches on the role and influence of political ideologies and offers a framework to be used throughout the analysis for critically…

Some 15 to 20 percent of U.S. school children speak a foreign language at home, and the number is increasing rapidly. However, all limited-English proficient (LEP) students are not alike, and their differences must be understood in assessing their performance. It is vital to understand the role of culture and how the cultural background influences…

The computer revolution was expected to help American schools to teach traditionally unsuccessful students more effectively and to reduce educational inequalities. Research suggests, however, that computer technology has in many ways actually widened the gap in educational opportunity. Nevertheless, this report finds that computers and…