The Scottish Wider Access Programme (SWAP) aims to increase adults' access to higher education. Interviews with SWAP students and educators revealed that SWAP had been invaluable in preparing nontraditional students for admission to higher education. Issues include improving teaching methods geared toward mature students, providing support…

An overview of adult basic education within six regions of Scotland compares the costs and benefits from different forms of provision including public, private, and voluntary organizations. A cost-benefit analysis of six case studies shows that a high cost per learner hour is necessary to achieve quality outputs. (KS)

The Scottish "New Community Schools" program encourages health, education, and social service agency collaboration to improve outcomes for disadvantaged children. A first-year evaluation indicates that additional funding has enabled new multi-agency initiatives, particularly in health promotion; development of students' personal learning…

A study examined a Scottish council's initiative to mainstream secondary pupils with social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. Classroom observations and teacher interviews at 12 schools indicated that not all departments shared the underlying philosophy, and consultation with community agencies was lacking. Some schools showed progress, but…

A study examined the potential role of Scotland's New Community Schools (NCS) program in dealing with pupils with social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties (SEBD). Interviews with 15 parents of children with SEBD found common experiences of poor coordination of services and nonproductive engagement with professionals. NCS could promote…