Research on the use of calculators in mathematics classes is reviewed. It is noted that calculators were initially too high-priced and of too low an availability to be viewed in terms of widespread use in classrooms. Technological and manufacturing advances have since made wide use possible. Proponents of calculator use see this technology as a…

This document summarizes the research done on calculators and calculator use. It is noted that calculators are now seen as acceptable, with fears about use in school currently infrequent, and the role of such devices much more evident than 6 years ago. The first two sections of this material summarize data on use and availability. It is noted that…

In order to review the state of the art of competency-based adult education (CBAE), it is necessary first to note the larger context of competency-based education (CBE). Many CBE program activities that predominate all educational levels focus on academic skills. Examples of activities that apply CBE-like principles to adults exist in several…

An overview of adult learning disabilities is presented with an emphasis on the most recent developments in the field. Areas discussed are definition, characteristics, current literature, and program design. Various definitions of a learning disabled adult are identified and the problems associated with these definitions are considered. The…

The Title II Basic Skills legislation, which is part of the Educational Amendments of 1978, requires coordination of basic skills improvement among related federally-supported programs. Coordination, while essential, is made difficult by the proliferation of agencies and bureaus concerned with basic skills and by the need for autonomy among…

Information on basic skills improvement programs is provided through a review of research findings concerned with the factors determining quality education. These factors fall into four key areas: (1) the classroom--use of time, classroom climate/control, teacher behaviors, student behavior, organization of instruction; (2)…

Critically evaluates recent statements and actions by federal and state officials who do not realize the efforts that will be necessary to raise school standards. Reviews kinds of standards proposed by current reform, considers their effects, and discusses the conditions under which at risk students could respond positively to higher standards.…

Broad-based effective schools research suggests a school excellence model attributing student achievement to principal leadership, a positive school climate, the primacy of basic skills, high teacher expectations, an assessment and monitoring system, and the integration and coordination of the real and ideal curriculum and student assessment. (DCS)

This paper traces the development of human capital theory and shows how it has been used to justify public vocational education programs that emphasize the development of job-specific skills. Possessing vocational skills does not guarantee employment in the related field; consequently, education should emphasize the teaching of basic intellectual…

Discusses: (1) educational changes that have led to a national decline in literacy; (2) a college philosophy course in which students are trained to write philosophical essays; (3) ways to integrate reading and writing skills into the teaching of a discipline; and (4) college level mini-courses in reading and writing skills that supplement classes…

Studies in self-management, attribution, and achievement motivation challenge the view that basic skills instruction requires strong teacher control, structure, convergence on learning activities, less pupil freedom, and less experimental teaching activities. Student-managed instruction yielded the greatest achievement gains and heightened…

Educational changes in Australia in the 1980s are unlikely to differ much from those occurring elsewhere in the industrialized world. Against the backdrop of declining enrollment, important educational issues are likely to be the national economy, school financing, community involvement, multiculturalism, basic skills, public examinations, and…

Five concerns in secondary and higher education will have major implications for measurement in the future. They include: basic skills movement, the increasing diversity of students, the influence of external forces on higher education, the trend toward declining enrollments, and the fixed nature of curricula. (Author/MLW)

Reviews the sudden growth and accomplishments of elementary consumer education in Canada in recent years and notes the uncertainty of continued progress. (SJL)

This discussion of self-determination in young children with severe disabilities first offers a definition of self-determination and then looks at the early roots of self-determination from a developmental perspective. The article explores the relationship of (1) skills associated with self-determination and (2) practices, curriculum, and…