The role of education is strongly determined by the perspective set by the political and social fabric of a given culture. Political and social upheaval, experimentation, and change accelerated at a tremendous pace during the 1960s and early 1970s. Consequently, great changes occurred in the structure of many school systems throughout the nation. Development of the basic skills needed to function effectively as mature, participating adults has been sorely affected by the change in the educational milieu. Structure emerges as a consistent factor in contemporary research. The structure cited is positively correlated with basic skills achievement in an increasing number of studies. There is emerging today a return to more enduring values and reestablishment of control in every educational sector. (Author/MLF)