Indicates that the movement toward minimal competency testing is widespread and growing but that its educational and social implications have yet to be evaluated. (TJ)

Traditional business courses, such as typing, shorthand, and accounting, must be expanded to include communication, computational, and keyboarding competencies. These competencies can be integrated into existing courses. (JOW)

The author concludes that testing in basic education is indispensable. Several objections to external testing are discussed. (Author/MLF)

Offers two views supporting the concept of tracking and another telling how one middle school teacher works around tracking. (MG)

This article argues that present youth are inarticulate, that oral communication is a vital competency, and that programs in aural and oral skills should be implemented. (MJL)

More than just learning to draw, art education is complementary to other areas of the curriculum. (Author/JM)

Looks at the issues regarding the integration of basic skills in vocational education. Discusses the team approach and collaborative efforts made to ensure this integration. (JOW)

There is agreement that students need stronger basic skills when they leave secondary programs; employeers seek entry-level workers with problem-solving and decision-making skills as well as math, science, and communication skills. Basic skills instruction must be an imperative component of vocational education programs. (JOW)

The basic skills should be taught at all levels in our schools. They should be wrapped in practicality so that the student appreciates the basic skills and realizes that they have an application in his or her future life. (JOW)

Discuses (1) the nature and role of technology, (2) technology education and general education, (3) technological literacy and general education, and (4) technology and teacher education. Integrates these issues and supports technology as a necessary component of general education. (CH)

Argues that high school principals should work to bring the business world and the business education department closer together in order to improve the quality of education. (FL)

A high percentage of young people (16-24 years of age) lack essential skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic needed to become workers and citizens. The teaching of reading should be of importance to all educators, not just language arts teachers. (JOW)

Interviewing, fact checking, writing, research, analysis, meeting deadlines--all are necessary skills gained from journalism training. The Journalism Education Association recently reported that students taking high school journalism courses and working on student publications performed better in college than students without such training.…

Presents an overview of the topic of this special issue, "Literacy through University-School Collaboration." Gives brief summaries and comments about each of the articles in the issue. (HB)

Research into guidance efforts that successfully integrate basic skills into vocational education programs indicates that counselors play a key role in helping students gain the new basic skills. Their roles will have an impact on students and on the field of vocational education. (JOW)