The extent of American literacy is examined and the concept of literacy defined. Literacy can be measured through responsible testing practices and can be improved through responsive public programs. Assessing abilities and correcting deficiencies are seen as priorities for the future. (Author/MLW)

The article discusses the individualized education program (IEP--as mandated by the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, P.L. 94-142) as a process rather than a product, drawing on the results of Project IEP, a survey of special education administrators and practitioners and parents of handicapped children regarding the IEP. (Author/DLS)

A critique of the research methods used in "Primary Education in England," a report of Her Majesty's Inspectorate that was based on teacher questionnaires and classroom observations of 7-, 9-, and 11-year-olds in 542 schools. (SJL)

This study critically examines the measurement of the Comprehesive Employment and Training Act's key allocation variable, unemployment. The analysis indicates (1) unemployment rates are higher than government estimates and (2) methods used to measure state and local umemployment have several weaknesses. (Author/RLV)

Catalan, although a minority language within Spain, enjoys great prestige within Catalonia. This article attempts to explain how conflicts in Europe, national and Catalan election politics, educational policies, and the "cold war" waged against the Catalan government together affected a change in public opinion toward a reluctance to…

Reflects on a small-scale survey of nine schools in England where results of the National Curriculum test in spelling were particularly high. Discusses common approaches among the schools, including the teaching of spelling patterns and phonics; the fostering of early independence in writing and reading; and the regular learning of spelling at…

Examines trends in the educational and career aspirations of women entering college, based on a 1987 survey conducted at UCLA and data from a nationwide survey taken annually since 1966. Calls for greater institutional response to women's needs, based on their increased enrollment and broadened aspirations. (DM)

The article provides excerpts from the executive summary of the Eleventh Annual Report to Congress of the Education of the Handicapped Act (Public Law 94-142). Editors' comments note the variability of services among the states and the existence of serious problems in monitoring compliance with the law. (DB)

Describes a survey of public libraries that examined the phenomenon of latchkey children. Findings discussed include the estimated number of latchkey children in public libraries, effects on the library, library policies, and services provided and recommended for latchkey children. Specific recommendations to help public libraries clarify their…

The disparity in housing costs between renters and homeowners will affect the rapidly aging population of the United States; most renters pay 25% or more of their income for shelter, while only 30% of homeowners are in the same category. The American Housing Survey can help gerontologists and planners address a broad range of housing and related…

Reports findings from a survey completed by 105 Canadian families with adopted children from Romania. Results reflect the parents' perceptions of the adoption experience, the condition of the child on adoption, the parents' subsequent developmental concerns, and the children's progress. Parents' perceived needs and concerns are reported, and…

Excerpts responses from Master Journalism Educators and Certified Journalism Educators to a survey regarding why they sought certification, experiences as a result of certification, public recognition, and encouragement for other teachers to gain certification by the Journalism Education Association. (SR)

This article presents an overview of the situation of families of children with disabilities in Jordan, where special education services are provided to less than 3 percent of the target population. A survey of professionals at 14 special schools identified major family needs and concerns. (Author/DB)

Based on a survey of individuals involved in decision making about technology education, the concerns of curriculum, teaching, facilities and equipment, role and place of technology education, and support and advocacy of technology education are discussed. Recommendations from the survey group are included. (KR)

Discusses the report "A Nation at Risk" and its effect on American education over the past decade. Presents data from a nationwide survey regarding the extent to which the report's recommendations have been carried out. Finds that the report has had little effect on education. Suggests reasons why the report had so little influence. (HB)