Discusses educational standards, core curricula, competence models, school autonomy, school evaluation, and from input-to output-control as important catchwords in the present education and school policy debate. Points out that the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) has triggered a new educational debate in Germany that calls for…

Reviews two experiments that strongly support dual coding theory. Dual coding theory holds that communicating concretely (tactile, auditory, or visual stimuli) affects evaluative thinking stronger than communicating abstractly through words and numbers. The experiments applied this theory to the realm of age and evaluation. (MJP)

The Chulupi Indians of Paraguay use a humorous tale containing an incest sequence to transmit information and approved social attitudes toward incest to members of their culture. Accounts of incestuous rape need to be included in United States prevention programs to deter this destructive form of child sexual abuse. (JDD)

Examines differences between Inuit and non-Inuit students in activism (social attitude), self-concept, and academic achievement. Inuits scored lower in activism and self-concept than non-Inuits. Suggests teachers create personalized classroom environments to positively affect activism and self-concept, and thereby enhancing achievement.…

Examines recent studies from several countries that compared adolescent male and female attitudes toward authority. Reports that these studies do not support M. Emler and S. Reicher's (1987) assertion that delinquent behavior results from a failure to inculcate favorable attitudes toward authority through socialization. Finds the relationship…

A study of 1,789 female and 1,870 male students at college entry and exit compared self-ratings of abilities, social and political views, and goals and aspirations. Results show gender a contributing factor in all three areas. Gender differences in student attitudes were evident at both college entry and four years later. (MSE)

Discusses the use of role models as a means of political socialization and moral education in China. Asserts that Chinese children in post-Liberation China actually were learning a set of core virtues that have roots in Confucian tradition. Predicts that newer role models will be used to perpetuate values such as benevolence. (CFR)

Contends that conservative critiques of education and proposals for reform are similar in Canada, Great Britain, and the United States. Describes and analyzes New Right criticisms of education and conservative efforts to promote business values and market-based economics. (CFR)

Asserts that interest has increased in social skills training with children and adolescents. Reviews research literature on this topic and concludes that, although social skills training may be a necessary component in bringing about real life changes for children lacking in social competence, it may not always be sufficient. (CFR)

Compares traditional education with national schooling in the Solomon Islands, concentrating on the nature, meaning, and transmission of knowledge and impact of the Western model of schooling on social change. Historical sources, government reports, interviews, and observations of the Kwara'ae, the largest cultural group in the islands, are…

Studied the relation of child-rearing beliefs and values of parents of children entering kindergarten to children's academic achievements. Examined effects of a child-centered educational preschool program for socioeconomically disadvantaged children on parents' beliefs and values. Parents of children at risk differed from other parents in beliefs…

A peer nomination assessment of 5 domains of children's competence was administered to 1,249 elementary school students. Factor analysis revealed two positive and two negative factors. Results indicate the structure of peer's perceptions of children's competence, and justify use of the measure to complement other methods of evaluation. (SLD)

Focuses on the use of taboo language as beneficial for second-language learners. The article suggests that learners need to understand what constitutes "obscene" language in North American contexts, why native speakers choose to use it, and what it signifies sociolinguistically. Some nonlinguistic variables relevant to cursing are discussed. (15…

Presents perspectives resulting from the inquiry of the American Graduate School of International Management (AZ) 1994 Winterim students who traveled and studied in Cuba. The article maintains that the selective withdrawal of state power from economic activity and the gradual renewal of private competition promotes controversy. (48 references)…

Critiques a set of children's books that focus on moral, social, and civic issues. All of the titles offer concrete examples of critical thinking and steer clear of agenda-based politics. Includes nonfiction, anthologies, and curriculum guides. (MJP)