An extensive, internally cross-validated analytical study using nested (within academic disciplines) Multilevel Modeling (MLM) on 4,560 students identified functional criteria for defining high school curriculum rigor and further determined which measures could best be used to help guide decision making for marginal applicants. The key outcome…

The paper presents the rationale, assessment/placement criteria, program descriptions, and implications of qualitatively differentiated programs for the gifted. The article describes how these programs are interpreted and implemented in Dade County, Florida schools. Suggested implications are offered. (Author/SBH)

These workshop materials are the guidelines Broward County (Florida) has established to carry out the state legislative mandate authorizing school boards to establish educational alternative programs to meet the individual needs and interests of students who are disruptive, unsucessful, or disinterested in the normal school environment. Included…

Prospective teachers in many states must pass a competency test prior to receiving an initial teaching certificate. Because of the high stakes associated with them, educator competency tests can play a major role in modifying the nature of teacher training programs. To investigate the nature and extent of such changes, deans and faculty at teacher…

During the 1980s Florida has mandated several testing programs to improve the quality of the community college, state university, and teacher education entrants and graduates. Three measures were intended to improve the quality of community college/state university/teacher education students. The College Level Academic Skills Test (CLAST) program…

Florida's mandate of open enrollment for the community colleges and maintenance of the state universities as a limited access system is examined from the perspectives of its origins, perpetuation, problems, and the need for articulation. (MSE)

This address presents recent developments in the Florida movement toward entry and exit examinations in higher education. During the 1970s, parents, business leaders and state government leaders had expressed concern that students from Florida's schools, colleges, and universities were not demonstrating sufficient quality in job performance,…

A two-phase study was conducted in order (1) to develop a profile of admission standards and practices which were being used by forty public occupational education programs in Florida; and (2) to enhance the state-of-the-art encompassing admission procedures by identifying the degree of equity associated with 19 admission standards as perceived by…

In Florida, foreign language teaching has consistently followed national trends. Currently, there is a renaissance in language study. Enrollment has increased dramatically at all educational levels, due to a mandated state university system entrance requirement and two programs, the Florida Academic Scholars Program and Foreign Languages in the…