Discussion of information and communications technology in the United Kingdom focuses on contrasting government rhetoric concerning post-compulsory electronic learning with an analysis of data from the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education survey. Results suggest that access to ICT does not in itself make people more likely to…

Raises concerns about the language analysis that is being done by overseas agencies and that is being used by the Australian government in determining the nationality of refugee claimants, and concludes that "language analysis" as it is currently used is not valid and reliable. (Author/VWL)

Argues that government structures are not effective for children. Suggests that a Minister and Children's Unit be responsible for four tasks, including developing government strategy for children, presenting research on children to provide a full view of the child's situation to government, coordinating government departments, and consulting…

Examines how Constitutional principles, specifically the doctrines of Federalism and the separation of powers, relate to e-government policies and practices. Suggests that the move toward e-government, with emphasis on the simplification of access to government information and services, must be considered with regard to Federalism and separation…

The UK government's health strategy included a target for reducing the population suicide rates by 15% over an 8-year period. A crucial aspect in reducing suicide rates is the accurate assessment of those who may be at risk to enable appropriate interventions to take place. This paper outlines best practice regarding the exploration and assessment…

In China, nursing has been a secondary-level trade, although modernization and pressures on the health care system are increasing the prevalence of degree programs. The ministry of health beginning to regulate practice and establish standards. Education of key administrators and stakeholders is crucial. (Contains 11 references.) (SK)

Explains the USA PATRIOT (Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism) Act, passed after the September 11 terrorist attacks, and its implications for libraries and patron records. Considers past dealings with the FBI; court orders; search warrants; wiretaps; and subpoenas. Includes:…

Draws on an ongoing project on "Elites in Policy-making," aimed at critically examining the postwar "partnership" between LEAs, teachers, and the Ministry of Education. Challenges pluralism as the dominant theoretical approach to the study of education policymaking in the United Kingdom and argues for a more state-centered,…

The "lifeline" concept proposes subsidizing access to the information superhighway for economically disadvantaged persons. Government intervention is necessary to prevent gaps, but right of access at an affordable price is no solution; lifelines should not be tied to a specific technology; and incentives to telecommunications providers…

Existing definitions of the relationship between community participation and community development are flawed because they concentrate on the failings of community development without analyzing why successful programs succeed. Community development is actually a form of community participation, and its success is determined by the role of the…

Explores the nature of the political ideology that justified and sustained conservative efforts to prevent the passage of the Library Services Act of 1956 and discusses implications for current efforts to secure reauthorization of the Library Services and Construction Act. Highlights include a historical account of actions by Congress and state…

Identifies flaws in the new Carl Perkins Act: mismatch between purpose and funding; micromanagement; attempts to legislate learning by specifying courses; legislation of methodology such as academic-vocational integration; failure to consider restructuring of the vocational education system; and failure to address the important federal role in…

Accountants have urged "harmonization" of standards between the Governmental Accounting Standards Board and the Financial Accounting Standards Board, recommending similar reporting of like transactions. However, varying display of similar accounting events does not necessarily indicate disharmony. The potential for problems because of…

Argues that the final fifth of an article by Federal Communications Commission Chairman Mark Fowler (based on a social vision of broadcasting different than the "marketplace" approach taken in the rest of the article) has been ignored by media and communication scholars. Suggests why a response is still needed and what form that response…

Traces the history of the German climate change debate in the last 50 years and discusses the forces and events that shaped it. Examines the way in which scientists, the government, industry, nongovernmental organizations, and the media entered into and influenced the debate. (54 references) (MDH)