In the context of a discussion of the role of developmental education in the nation's community colleges, this paper responds to criticisms of developmental education that have been made in recent years. First, the paper considers the role of developmental education in promoting literacy, examines definitions of literacy, highlights results of…

Responds to criticisms commonly leveled against community colleges with respect to their provision of developmental education. Looks at issues related to program costs, departmental responsibility, articulation with secondary schools, teacher preparation, placement and diagnostic test validity. (DMM)

Data for the evaluation of the Rio Hondo Exploratory College were obtained from a review of the literature and background materials, interviews with faculty, staff, and the board of trustees, and questionnaires administered to faculty and students. According to planning documents and the perceptions of administrators and staff at Rio Hondo…