The structure of the American school system is viewed as an embodiment and source of fluidity of class boundaries. Community colleges are seen as an expression of characteristics of the educational system which reinforces the ideology that it is never too late for talent to reveal itself and be rewarded. (Author/MSE)

Data on educational opportunity for U.S.A., Seden, Spain and Germany are used to portray diverse status profiles of students. Then changes in rates of attendance for three status categories in Sweden from 1950 to 1970 are measured in three ways. Results show a strong tendency toward social "democratization" in Sweden. (Editor/JT)