Four sections discuss multicultural education in Scotland, i.e., historical background; cultural minorities (Gaels, Lowland Scots speakers, Irish, Asian, and others); minority needs within the educational system; and minorities, majorities, and the wider context. (AH)

The rationale behind the traditional grade organization pattern of pre-primary, primary, secondary, and tertiary is discussed, as is the trend to extend compulsory schooling later into the teenage years. The impact of these divisions and of compulsory schooling itself on equal educational opportunity is considered. (SJL)

Compares the beliefs, goals, and teaching methods of French and English elementary school teachers working in areas of disadvantage to illuminate how teachers in the two countries resolve the dilemmas involved in providing equal educational opportunities to all children. Research before and after recent educational reforms indicates the central…

Argues that social exclusion, as evidenced by unemployment and educational failure, is a persistent structural feature in European countries. Suggests that multicultural education and other educational strategies should provide global awareness of the world's major problems and the solidarity of mankind and training in nonviolent democratic…

Examines difficulties and complexities in researching issues of discrimination in education across European countries as a first step in devising intercultural curricula. Discusses cross-national differences in terminology, in the ways in which research issues related to racism and interculturalism are formulated, and in the educational experience…

The historically changing reproduction of labor is the thread which holds together all African schooling policies in South Africa, where from the beginning the early White settlers set up a labor-exploitative state. (Author)

The most important aims of educational policy must reflect the needs of a developed socialist society. These aims include: recruitment and training of teachers; the development of parallel and lifelong education; the achievement of an "educative society" by linking educational with economic, social and cultural policy; and equal…

School governance reform in post-apartheid South Africa aimed to democratize schooling while accommodating diverse school histories of underdevelopment or self-management. Analysis of relevant legislation shows the reform was structured to allow representative democracy and partnerships. But two recent studies suggest that governance reforms have…

Compares changing patterns in educational finance in Russia and China, drawing on the literature concerning educational change in societies moving from socialism to market economies. Discusses economic and political contexts in the two countries, public and private educational expenditures, decentralization of financial responsibilities, increased…

Reviews structural reform measures taken by Norway to provide formal equality between vocational and general education. Outlines legal foundations, changes in school enrollment from 1977-78 to 1983-84, admission procedures, and ramifications of these reforms. (NEC)

Examines international trends in selection for higher education, as well as school-leaving examinations and university access in South Africa. Discusses tensions between educational quality and equity related to access. Describes equitable admissions criteria instituted at the University of the Western Cape, and some dilemmas encountered by…

Points out problems of access to schooling in Zambia, especially at the primary and secondary levels and discusses existing types of alternative schooling such as night schools and supervised study groups. Argues that recent private school initiatives are not providing educational opportunities except for a few wealthy urban families. (JHZ)

A survey is made of educational equality in countries with large and diverse multicultural populations, and implications for England and Wales are drawn. One thing is clear: there is and can be no common policy towards education in multicultural societies, since these vary so enormously in their origins and problems. (Author/KC)

India's national policy for education and national curriculum for elementary and secondary education focus on equality of educational opportunity, improvement of schools and teaching methods, increased vocational secondary education, and multicultural sensitivity. Prospects for implementation are discussed. The structure of the Indian school…

Background for understanding the experience of Muslim immigrant students in French schools. Discusses the philosophy of equal education as equal access to the same knowledge (defined exclusively by the state and teachers); lack of teacher accountability; examination-based selection; and church-state separation. Describes government responses to…