Questions who has control over academic eligibility for students aspiring to participate in high school sports. Local school boards now have limited control beyond raising standards set by state policies. A recent study showed that academic eligibility was state-regulated in 47 states. Legal trends are also discussed. Includes 41 references. (MLH)

Examines whether task structures, grading practices, and grouping patterns influence the achievement standards that upper-elementary students use in reaching a positive evaluation of their ability. (PCB)

This article examines the literature on achievement effects of practical applications of grouped-based mastery learning in elementary and secondary schools. The review found no evidence to support the claim that mastery learning improves student performance on standardized achievement measures. (RB)

Suggests that sociological training is not sufficiently demanding and thus does not attract high-quality students. The author makes specific suggestions emphasizing the importance of theoretical work, syntheses and careful analyses of existing theories, and advanced methodological work. Concludes that serious thinking about the goals of graduate…

Discusses opposing views on minimum academic standards for student athletes. Can schools require of athletes what is not required of other students? Unintended outcomes such as student athletes taking easier course loads may result. Conversely, minimum standards should not penalize those wanting to participate in sports. Schools with minimum…

Two aspects of educational improvement are addressed: (1)do we have more education than in the past; and (2)are standards of attainment rising. While some research evidence is less conclusive than is thought, there are major findings that could be directly applied to improve the educational system. (BS)

Argues that criteria for assessing excellence in higher education should be based on a definition of excellence which stresses how well people, programs, departments, or institutions perform. Maintains that excellence occurs when people, programs, or institutions perform beyond expected levels. (BL)

The author asserts that special educators must be aware of the standards of the regular classroom and must teach the learning disabled child based on those standards. However, he cites widespread confusion and ambiguity over such standards for promotion. (CL)

Due to grade inflation, transcripts reveal little more than courses a student has completed. Recommendation letters have become an important criterion in teacher candidate selection. Suggestions for writing a subjective recommendation are offered. (DF)

A survey of the 103 members of a national association of education schools contradicts charges that teacher training institutions have low admission and graduation standards, require too few subject-area courses relative to methodology courses, and require less rigorous general studies than are required in other disciplines. (MCG)

Explores the problem of enrollment of students in journalism programs who are not suited or qualified for the profession. Suggests establishing minimum enrollment standards as a partial solution. (HTH)

The North Carolina End of Course (EOC) tests were initiated in response to legislation passed by the North Carolina General Assembly--the North Carolina Elementary and Secondary Reform Act of 1984. This act mandates the implementation of the Basic Education Program through the establishment of a core curriculum for all students for each content…

States are under pressure to meet NCLB's demands in part because they depend on Title I funding. It represents a small but meaningful percentage of the education budget (about 3% in California). Some state officials object to the strong conditions placed on a relatively modest sum of money. A handful of states have even considered foregoing the…

This booklet clearly spells out what students should know and be able to do in United States History. Examples are given to help students understand what is required to meet the standards. Students should review this guide with their teachers and share it with their parents and family. This two-semester course builds upon concepts developed in…

Over 30 years of research confirms the foundational importance of early education and care for children's school and life success. As Pennsylvania seeks to emphasize its early learning programs, a standards-based approach to pre-kindergarten programs is vital. Children are born with an incredible capacity and desire to learn. It is critical that…