This unit is intended to provide the student with clear understanding of the function of interest groups and lobbyists in the American Democratic political system. It has been designed to be used for 12-17 days of class work. However, it is possible to alter this time by several days depending upon the individual situation. "Why Lobby"? is divided…

This booklet contains a brief analysis of four "real life" alternatives (Minnesota, Michigan, Kansas, and New York) for State systems of funding schools, along with a concise conceptual framework for approaching the study of school finance reform. Because the booklet was prepared as a practical guide for State legislators, the authors avoid highly…

As William Beltz (1912-1960) grew up in the mining towns of northern Alaska, he observed the unequal treatment of the native Indians and Eskimos in the territory of Alaska. Part Eskimo himself, Will worked to improve conditions and to obtain equal rights for his people. As a member (and later president) of the Alaska Carpenters Union and as a…

This testimony presents evidence of children's television advertising excesses and abuses. The testimony points out that the average TV-watching child sees more than 22,000 commercials a year, and that on the programs most popular with children large numbers of over-the-counter drugs and hazardous products are advertised. The history of private…

The focus of this hearing is to review Federal and State oversight of child welfare programs and systems designed to prevent abuse and neglect of children, including those under State protection. The purpose being to provide subcommittee representatives the opportunity to learn what Federal, State, and local officials should be doing to ensure…

This guide is a revised and adapted version of a previous monograph, "A New Public Perspective on Representative Democracy: A Guide for Legislative Interns." The guide focuses on civic perspective: how citizens view the political institutions, processes, and people that are fundamental to representative democracy in the United States. It…

This digest addresses teaching about the U.S. Congress. The digest addresses the constitutional foundations of the U.S. Congress, including the Virginia Plan, the New Jersey Plan, representation, bicameralism, and the balance of power between state and federal government and among the executive, judicial, and legislative branches of the federal…

This study examines the perceptions of legislators in Natrona County, Wyoming, concerning the impact community college attendance has on a student's future earning power. Eight congressmen and four senators were interviewed between November 30, 2000, and January 31, 2001. Results included: (1) nine legislators held perceptions that could be…

This guide offers advice on influencing public policy and educational practice to the benefit of young children and the early childhood community. Included is information on the types of advocacy; how to work with others; the basics of federal, state, and local policy; and tips on disseminating information. Following an introduction highlighting…

In an interview with Albert H. Quie, governor of Minnesota, he gives his opinion about the impact of research studies or educational evaluation on policy decision making in Congress, and the role of Congressional Committee staff members. (MH)

Internet 2, a project intended to provide member universities with new computer network services and faster connections, is criticized for growing too large and too difficult to administer cooperatively. Its organizers are working closely with the Clinton Administration's Next Generation Internet Initiative, but some lawmakers feel the program is…

Analyzes the election and congressional career of Georgian, Andrew Young. Briefly discusses the demographic, political, and civil rights issues that combined to secure Young his first congressional seat. Includes a series of suggested teaching activities and discussion questions. (MJP)

When a state legislator requested that the president of Southwest Missouri State University stop production of a drama department production about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the administrator refused to accede to pressure and enlisted and won the board's support. (MSE)

An interview with Senator Bill Bradley (Democrat of New Jersey) covers such issues as the legislator's candid confrontation of racial issues, racial bias and education, higher education's role in social change, the value of campus racial and ethnic caucuses, and payment of revenue-generating college athletes. (MSE)

Members of the Virginia senate and Virginia community college presidents were asked to indicate their level of agreement with the importance of state funding for 31 potential community college activities. Reports a high level of agreement and congruence between the two groups. (DMM)