Dunne (1978) suggested three major tasks of the 1980s which confront those concerned with rural issues: (1) basic research on small school problems, practices, and unique features; (2) curriculum and program development which builds on these features; and (3) elaboration and implementation of models for funding and regulating small schools.…

Examines characteristics of small rural schools that contribute to school effectiveness. Discusses program implementation, school climate, teacher morale, teacher cooperation, the work ethic, parent involvement, student involvement, and relationships among teachers, administrators, parents, students, and the community. (SV)

This document contains the full text of the conference keynote address and abstracts of conference papers. The keynote address--"Excellence in Rural Education: Our Heritage and Our Future," by Duane M. Nielsen--outlines: (1) demographic changes in rural America in the 1970s and 1980s; (2) the challenges facing rural education due to increasing…

The paper reviews work being done by two established Department of Education (ED) committees which are addressing concerns and issues related to rural education--the Intra-Departmental Committee on Rural Education (with representation from all 14 offices or units in the Department) and the Federal Intra-Agency Committee on Education's Rural…

Development of the Oregon Small Schools Program is traced against the background of other small-school projects, such as the Western States Small Schools Project and the Texas Small Schools Project. Information is given on the various procedures involved in the organization's development and on problems (e.g., high turnover of teachers and high…

This paper outlines a model for multigroup evaluation planning in a rural-education setting wherein the commitment to the structure necessary to evaluate a program is needed on the part of a research and development laboratory, the state departments of education, county supervisors, and the rural schools. To bridge the gap between basic research,…

Describes faculty designed program to provide individualized basic education for each of 116 grade 4, 5, and 6 students in Bigelow, Arkansas, as well as daily opportunities for enrichment through community resource persons. Summarizes community involvement, educational considerations, evaluation efforts, recommendations, and limitations. (NEC)

Explains how interactive television is expanding course offerings in two remote, sparsely populated Northern Michigan school districts (Cheboygan and Mackinaw City), how interactive television works, and how the programs were made operational in less than two years. Offers reflections about the program and plans for expansion. (NEC)

The Exemplary Individualized Learning Center at a small Idaho junior and senior high school serves as the basis for discussing the problem of integrating new technology into rural education. (LS)

Reviews "Overcoming Risk: An Annotated Bibliography of Publications Developed by ERIC Clearinghouses," by Wendy Schwartz and Craig Howley which also contains two critical essays on the definition and measurement of risk. In addition, the bulletin contains an index of "fugitive literature" related to rural education and small…

Discusses consolidation as a method to reduce the costs of rural education. Describes the interrelatedness of the rural economy and rural education. Enumerates advantages and disadvantages of small schools. Suggests that educational reform should focus on the unique circumstances of rural schools. (KS)

Much progress has been made in the quest for better rural schools. In 1977, People United for Rural Education (PURE) began its work as an advocate for rural education and small schools. In 1979, PURE was notified that it was to receive the National Volunteer Activist Award. In 1980, the Rural/Regional Education Association became the Rural…

Traditionally Sweden's educational system has been highly centralized; physical characteristics, administrative factors, and teacher qualifications have been generally standardized as have curriculums, though local implementation has been afforded considerable freedom. In 1971 the upper secondary school (9-12) consolidated three previously…

Some 352 documents and 166 journal articles published between 1955 and 1970 are cited in this bibliography on rural education and small schools. Part I contains citations and abstracts which have appeared in "Research in Education" from September 1969 through July 1971. Part II includes citations of journal articles from "Current…

Certification records of 435 Idaho science teachers analyzed by school district size revealed significant differences: more physiology, earth science, and chemistry I teachers in largest districts had endorsements to teach assigned subjects; more earth science and chemistry I teachers in smallest districts had neither major nor minor in subjects…