Summarizes trends for teacher professional-development research and standards documents. Identifies several characteristics common to science-education professional-development development programs that can be used to increase the likelihood of program implementation and success. Contains 63 references. (WRM)

The national context in which occupational standards and National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) have been developed is described. NVQ methodology is explained, and issues arising from NVQ implementation are outlined. Developments in accreditation within the contexts of counselling and psychotherapy and guidance for learning and work are…

This comparison of standards-based reform with rural school improvement efforts that emphasize locally responsive, place-based curricula reveals differences and similarities in the two movements. The standards-based movement is focused on setting state and national standards that all students must meet, suggesting a common curricular focus. Most…

Discusses the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) performance guidelines for K-12 foreign-language learners. The guidelines comprehensively describe the language performance of students of foreign languages across three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational), following specific periods of…

Reviews recent research reports, policy statements, and federal legislation that recognize the arts as a fundamental subject. Discusses different ways of knowing, how the arts enhance learning in other areas, national standards for arts education, outcomes of arts education, and challenges to expanding arts education. Sidebars summarize a national…

Reviews the standing of value judgments in design and technology education in Scotland; predicts the impact of implementing the National Guidelines for 5-14 Environmental Studies Technology framework on student learning; highlights consequences for teacher education: developing critical awareness, acquiring and assessing information, and…

In this report, the author traces the recent development of standards for mathematics teaching. Two central tensions are examined: (1) the tension between arriving at consensus and effecting change; and (2) the tension between providing direction and affording discretion in practice. With a focus on the challenges inherent in the ambitious vision…

This report updates information on a previous synthesis of information currently available on the development of educational outcomes and a system of indicators for students with disabilities. Specifically, it provides information on the key national policy groups involved in outcomes-related activities and on key reports that have been produced…

As educators work to address the challenge of students meeting state standards, alignment of what is tested with what is taught has been identified as a key to successful improvement efforts. This research brief focuses on what research and best practices say about improving alignment between state assessments and district and school curricula. It…

Research literature, perceptions of best practices, and the wisdom of practitioners and leaders in the field were examined in order to focus on career development issues affecting secondary schools, including: (1) clarification of career development terms; (2) delivery of career development programs; (3) resources that support program development…

The standards-based education reform movement has serious implications for students who are English language learners (ELLs), particularly with regard to wide scale assessment. Standards-based reform has been promoted nationwide through two federal initiatives--the Goals 2000: Educate America Act and Title I of the 1965 Elementary and Secondary…

Noting that assumptions about the teaching and learning of early childhood mathematics have changed substantially since the 1970s, this chapter examines recent research that may inform curriculum development in early childhood mathematics. The chapter begins with a consideration of the theoretical perspectives for defining an appropriate…

The impact of the introduction of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) on the role of agencies such as Citizens' Advice Bureaux--that is, voluntary-sector advice agencies with a strong welfare right ethos--is examined. The implications of NVQs on the everyday practice of advice giving in voluntary settings is explored. (Author)

British standards for inspection of residential services will not protect children from abuse because they do not address underlying problems. New proposals may correct some problems, but inspections probably cannot meet child protection objectives. Future developments should address enforcement of standards, collaboration between agencies…

Development of voluntary, national standards as the basis for educational reform has generated considerable debate about such standards' desirability and the enlarged federal role in education. Examines arguments for and against national standards; assumptions and misconceptions underlying this approach; political considerations; and issues of…