Uses previous implementation studies to investigate the process of local implementation of federal educational policy since 1965. Examines assumptions underlying federal educational policies; suggests different ways of thinking about the federal role in education; and maintains that effective implementation of federal educational programs requires…

Examines some of the factors that determine whether and how psychological research will affect public policies regarding children. Stresses the importance of the political climate in influencing research utilization and says that researchers must know when to introduce their findings into the policy making process. (Author/MJL)

Historical and social climates can determine the strength or weakness of racial movements. Before 1960, when institutional racism was prevalent, Black educators were discouraged from participating fully in Black activism. After 1960, government anti-discrimination efforts gave Black educators more freedom to combat racism. (Author/MJL)

Defines policy, discusses the impact of internal and external environments on educational policy, details the advantage of viewing school systems from the organizational perspective, outlines some implications of board-formulated policies, and presents some generalizations for policy-making. (Author/IRT)

Discusses current welfare reform focus on state-level funding for child care, offering implications for early childhood professionals. Notes that with temporary assistance, low-income mothers must move into the work force, resulting in increased reliance on center-based child care. Urges professionals to work with local and state policymakers to…

Although some argue that the end of the Cold War marks the end of need for the Fulbright Program, designed to address Cold War issues, the need for mutual understanding between countries is greater than ever. A revitalized and strengthened Fulbright Program will help provide direction for U.S. foreign policy based on the rise of a global knowledge…

An analysis of the way Italy has responded to the changing demands that society places on higher education begins with the enrollment boom of the early 1960s and traces the public debate to the present. (MSE)

Reviews national efforts to define urban policies and programs from 1960 through 1994, and suggests reasons for the failure of most in meeting the expectations of their advocates or the American people. It identifies principles and policies that should guide future urban policy makers in dealing with the difficult problems facing the modern city.…

This editorial reviews areas of health care reform including managed health care, diagnosis-related groups, and the Resource-Based Relative Value Scale for physician services. Relevance of such reforms to people with developmental disabilities is considered. Much needed insurance reform is not thought to be likely, however. (DB)

This commentary examines the political rhetoric evident in the education reform movement. Specifically, the paper questions what becomes of children with disabilities when schools feel pressure to improve standardized test scores and questions why educators are not included in the task forces of the National Governors' Association initiative on…

Fundamental tensions between the traditional notion of educational quality, the ideal of cultural pluralism, and public policy are examined in the context of higher education. The responsibility of the university and the academic profession to take a part in resolving those tensions through constructive change is discussed. (MSE)

This presidential address discusses realities that may alter political, social, and economic priorities in the future; examines how these realities will affect the lives of people with mental retardation and their families; and addresses ideas for responding to these realities and promoting greater opportunities and quality of life for citizens…

The history of educational assessment and research in Czechoslovakia and changes in attitudes toward educational testing are reviewed. The current status of educational assessment is evaluated and found wanting. A plan is proposed to resuscitate educational testing in Czechoslovakia in spite of the current economic and political problems. (SLD)

Reviews the mandate and mission of the National Commission on Libraries and Information Science (NCLIS) and describes its successful initiatives supporting library issues and community library programs. Excerpts from a letter written by Marilyn L. Miller, president of the American Library Association, in support of NCLIS are included. (EA)

Issues raised during a 1990 seminar on effects of programs and policies for foreign students and study abroad are reviewed. Specifically, concerns about national policy and institutional responses in light of changing patterns of foreign student flows and against the background of the new global economic and political setting are examined.…