An experienced observer and educator maintains that some of the best minds in education and psychology were involved in the development and use of standardized tests, and that a rejection of standarized testing is also a rejection of the principles of learning and true measurement of educational progress. (Author/LBH)

The ten elements of nontraditional study are carefully examined to provide an overview of their evolution and their impact on access to higher education. Discussed are degree-granting authority, competence as a basis for awarding degrees, adult students, experiential learning, specialized services, residence, and educational technology.…

Demographers point toward a growing population in the over-25 age group, whose higher educational needs are also growing. Several approaches that universities, business, and government can take together to meet the demand are discussed. (Author/LBH)

A statistical look is taken at the comparative levels of achievement of a sample of returning students at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the encouraging implications for expanded admissions and better grade prediction. (Author/LBH)

The role of students as part-time employees in financial aid offices throughout the U.S. is detailed. Their counseling duties could be expanded to help improve the state of the art in financial aid for both prospective and current college students. (Author/LBH)

The results of a recent survey of high school seniors show that their parents have a significant influence on their postsecondary planning. Greater parental involvement in guidance and admissions could add a new, beneficial dimension to counseling and recruiting efforts. (Author/LBH)

The SAT has proved to be a valuable tool in guiding the academic acceleration of mathematically precocious youth. Identified early by their SAT scores, gifted students can enjoy learning at their proper intellectual levels. Results from Johns Hopkins' Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth are reported. (Author/LBH)

A college president comments on several student behavior problems--including excessive drinking, peer pressure, drugs, and morality--and points to some methods for assuring a good "fit" between institutional standards and the behavior patterns of students enrolled. (Author/LBH)

Contemporary notions of career education are cast against some of the ideas and practices that have laid a historical foundation for it. Current definition and concepts are reviewed along with greater opportunities, shifts in occupational structure, vocational aspects, and vocational guidance. (LBH)

The Career Skills Assessment Program is offered by the Career Education Consortium, made up of five state education agencies and the College Board. It provides students and educators the materials and tools necessary to assess an individual's career preparedness. (LBH)

It is argued that the only form of career education is one in the liberal arts, because a liberal arts education uniquely equips a person for life. That education should be accompanied by the application of basic, general, or specialized skills. (LBH)

At community colleges, there is little theoretical conflict between general education and vocational preparation, suggests an associate chancellor for community colleges. A good community college should recognize the varied needs of its students and inject enough options to allow for individual choice. (Author/LBH)

Liberal learning is being increasingly emphasized in the professional schools to prepare the student for the real world. Examples of interdisciplinary approaches in business and health institutions are cited. (Author/LBH)

Efforts to protect students' consumer rights may encounter difficulty because of the heavy burdens now being placed on colleges and universities. Five ways that the concept of consumerism breaks down the educational setting are discussed. (Editor/LBH)

Lack of money may not be the major factor in student dropout rates. Some studies indicate that attrition rates are more affected by learner attitudes and goals and a good "fit" between student and institution. Current theories about student retention and attrition are reviewed. (Editor/LBH)