Reports a study that examined the extent and nature of mental health/illness education in American undergraduate higher education. Surveys of 93 program chairpersons and directors indicated that 56% of responding programs required a course emphasizing mental health or mental illness for students with a major or minor in health education. (SM)

Presents a model that can assess the relative quality of distance education courses by moving the emphasis from student-level data to course-based data. Reports data comparing online and traditional higher education courses covering nine disciplines and explores the usefulness of this framework for identifying discipline-related differences in…

Data in this survey supports the notion that the trend to eliminate physical education instruction in colleges and universities has ended. A reverse trend appears to be emerging. In addition, numerous changes have occurred in basic instruction in physical education course offerings over the years. (Author/IAH)

Describes an "exit" course, Senior Seminar in Communicative Theories, developed for students majoring in Speech Communication at George Mason University. Outlines the evolution of this course and the case for adding such a course to speech communication curricula. (KEH)

Results of a study of mandatory continuing education (MCE) programs at a large teaching hospital indicated that mandating the programs had an adverse effect on participants' perceived outcomes and their likelihood of voluntarily attending programs in the future. (JOW)

An argument is presented for a common core of basics for all students. In addition, national standards are considered within the contexts of a pluralistic society and societal goals. Costs and benefits of adopting national standards are examined in light of the experiences of other countries with centralized educational policies. (IAH)

Discusses the difficulty in providing general music education for all high school students. Examines teacher resistance to such courses and negative student attitudes towards any required course. Argues that such education is valuable in that its purpose is to refine the aural perceptions and musical curiosity of all students. (GEA)

Describes the approach used by the Baltimore County (MD) Public Schools to develop and implement a general music curriculum, designed to meet the needs of students not enrolled in band, choir, or orchestra. The resulting required course focused on developing a historical understanding of significant musical compositions and their role in society.…

Discusses ways in which instrumental music teachers can benefit from teaching nonperformance classes and the reasons why these teachers are a natural choice for the job. Examines specific competencies of instrumental music teachers, suggesting ways they can be put to work in nonperformance classes. (GEA)

Inclusion of a course in the pharmacy curriculum that deals primarily with the immune system, its function, malfunction, and therapeutic intervention provides what appears to be a workable focus for discussion of biotechnology. (MSE)

Using cognitive test data to simulate employment selection tests, data from 1,427 Northern Ireland students showed better science curriculum offerings in Protestant schools and differences in science provision for boys and girls. Poor science instruction adversely affects the range of career choices, especially for Catholic girls. (SK)

Presents a lesson plan designed to enhance student understanding of the value of history study. Focuses on David Laushey's 10 values of the study of history. Creates a series of discussion vignettes based on these concepts. Includes questions for study and a list of vignettes for classroom discussion and problem solving. (NL)

Survey examined dance education for undergraduate physical education majors in programs nationwide, investigating dance forms taught, hours required, professional preparation, and instructional methods. Results indicated almost one-third did not offer dance education. Those which required it had a narrow range of dance forms and mandated very few…

Analysis of data from an annual graduating medical students' survey revealed that a required third-year family medicine clerkship of at least four weeks is associated with a higher percentage of students choosing training and specialty certification in family practice. Whether clerkship inspires or reinforces preexisting choices is not indicated.…

Reports on a survey of teacher educators (n=38) about required computer courses for education majors. Most institutions required and offered one three to four credit computer course. Only 15 percent planned to supplement required courses. There were 51 computer labs on 40 campuses. Instructor presentation was the standard instructional method. (SM)