This paper outlines suggested guidelines for oral communication curricula that are an important step in establishing educational standards for teaching students how to communicate orally in the diverse situations they encounter. It notes the guidelines should be adapted to the unique capabilities and needs of students. The paper contains three…

This policy brief reviews developments in standards-based reform and explores new ways for holding schools and districts accountable for discharging their missions. It draws on several Consortium for Policy Research in Education (CPRE) studies of accountability, many of which are still in progress. The report examines characteristics of new…

The contents of this "Tool Kit" have been developed as resources to support state efforts to develop and implement rigorous standards for student achievement. The components have been planned as tools for planning and evaluating the development and implementation of content and performance standards. The following components are included: (1)…

This booklet describes the rationale, design, and structure for conferences organized for school principals. Drawing on the experiences of New York City's Community School District 2, it describes standards-based professional development for school leaders. It opens with a description of the District Network for Standards-Based Reform--a project…

In a successful college marketing program, students and high-quality instruction are top priorities. Marketing research should investigate student needs and frustrations, the products offered, value received for time and money invested, physical convenience and appeal, and promotional strategies. Program research and development suggestions are…

Urges educators to make the Ohio Proficiency Tests work for their program rather than against it. Claims that by placing the learner outcomes of the test into an inquiry-based context, it is possible to structure classrooms so that teachers do not compromise teaching and learning but students still do well on the tests. (NH)

Presents in full a consensus document produced from the 2000 Hope College National Communication Association Faculty Development Institute conference. Agrees that all graduates of an undergraduate degree program in communication should meet conceptual and competency standards in eight different areas: theoretical approaches, sensitivity to diverse…

"CLASS Professional Standards" is a resource for Chinese teachers, foreign language specialists, school administrators, parents, and policy makers who recognize the importance of Chinese cultures taught by professional teachers of Chinese. The release of the book also marks the celebration of the Chinese Language Association of…

This guide for testing coordinators includes information regarding: (1) Idaho statewide testing (both state and federal requirements); (2) testing dates; (3) Idaho Reading indicator (IRI); (4) Direct Mathematics Assessment (DMA); (5) Direct Writing Assessment (DEA); (6) Idaho Alternative Assessment (IAA); (7) Idaho Standards Achievement Test…

This guide is designed to help prospective students, counselors, public agencies, and institutions better understand distance school accreditation and how the accreditation procedures of the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) work. The guide defines distance education, discusses who the accrediting…

The Curriculum Inquiry Cycle is a professional development process that supports educators as they match curriculum and instruction to state standards, local needs, and student characteristics. Ways in which to implement this cycle are provided in this booklet. There are four phases in the cycle: examining current practice, making decisions,…

To assist parents and educators in preparing students for the 21st century, Wisconsin citizens have become involved in the development of challenging academic standards in 12 curricular areas. Having clear standards for students and teachers makes it possible to develop rigorous local curricula and valid, reliable assessments. This model of…

This inservice document provides information for educators responsible for designing a preliminary plan for completion of a self-study which leads to accreditation by the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges. Accreditation of public schools in Alaska is controlled locally and is voluntary. The first section of this manual briefly…

In response to recent nostalgia about education's past, the author reviews the reality of educational history. In the 1950s schools were affected by disruption and violence. In the 1930s declining standards were cited. In the teens there was a 50 percent dropout rate. In the 1900s problems of student boredom and violence were documented. (MD)

The new higher standards required of entering collegiate athletes will not immediately create change in the performance and attitudes of student athletes. Academic performance of student athletes can be enhanced through the development of a comprehensive program fusing the relationship between athletics and academics. (MD)