Testing procedures can measure poor reading ability rather than ability in the tested area. This study examined the effects of different procedures for administering test items on 205 third grade pupils of varying reading levels. The procedures were: oral only; look-listen; and silent reading. Results and their significance are discussed.…

To examine gender differences in attributions for success and failure across subject areas, the Survey of Achievement Responsibility (SOAR) was administered to 165 girls and 160 boys in grades 4 through 12. The SOAR assesses attributions for success and failure in language arts and mathematics/science. Results are presented. (Author/MT)

This review summarizes research findings on teacher receptivity to the implementation of changes in the educational system. Models of implementing change should include variables of teacher attitude and appraisal of change and perceived expectations and beliefs about educational issues. (SLD)

Review of 60 multivariate studies conducted in the Third World reporting on the aggregate influence of the school on academic achievement versus the influence of the family background. The relative influence of alternative school inputs and organizational practices is assessed, and a framework for evaluation is included. (SLD)

Review of research of between-class and within-class ability grouping on the achievement of elementary students. Ability grouping appears most effective for specific subjects with students remaining in heterogeneous classes most of the day. Cross-grade assignment for selected subjects can increase achievement. (SLD)

Slavin's 1987 review of research of between- and within-class ability grouping on achievement of elementary students is discussed, and its assumptions examined. It is suggested that recent theory and research make the Slavin review most useful from the perspective of historical analysis. (SLD)

The commentator finds that Slavin's synthesis is limited by its failure to distinguish between school and classroom organization and classroom instruction as well as the lack of consideration of intervening circumstances. (SLD)

Defending his conclusions, the author argues that the data reviewed tell much about ability grouping. (SLD)

The meta-analysis by A. C. Willig of bilingual education evaluation literature was not successful in comparison with and did not replicate the Baker and de Kanter narrative review. Willig's conclusion that bilingual education is effective is not supported by the analysis. (SLD)

nter arguments are presented to defend the author's data selection practices and to point out pitfalls in Baker's critique. (SLD)

lig appears to provide more useful information and use a more relevant body of literature, representing an advance over earlier studies. (SLD)

Elementary school teachers in Texas were surveyed to determine (1) their attitudes toward basal readers; (2) the extent of their use of basal reader programs; and (3) their perceptions of state reading textbook adoption policies. Findings are presented. Issues regarding teachers as decision makers versus technicians are discussed. (Author/MT)

The attitudes of two samples of 2,105 eighth and twelfth grade students in British Columbia and China toward computer studies, science, and writing were surveyed and compared. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

This study determined the relationship among 30 kindergarten children's perceptions of their competence, teachers' perceptions of the children's competence, and academic performance. Children were rated on cognitive and physical competence, as well as on peer acceptance, by themselves and by their teachers. Results are presented. (Author/MT)

Five experiments were conducted in an attempt to determine if college students' memory for oral directions could be enhanced. Mnemonic, paraphrase, and control conditions were compared for level of recall and recall in correct order. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)