Using results of a best-evidence synthesis and a meta-analysis of an extensive international database, it is argued that there is no empirical evidence at the moment showing that student learning suffers in combination classes. No support is found for the selection bias suggested by D. Mason and R. Burns (1997). (SLD)

S. Veenman argues that his reviews of the literature lead to the conclusion that combination classes are neither worse nor better than single-grade classes. This rejoinder discusses disagreements with Veenman's findings, which are hampered by a narrow reading and interpretation of the literature on potential positive effects of combination…

Factors that influenced 157 students at Pennsylvania State University (PSU) and 176 at the University of Cyprus to become teachers were compared. The factor "internal motives" was the strongest factor that influenced students from PSU, whereas the most influential factors for students from Cyprus were "variety of benefits" and "status of the…

Evaluation studies of the Dutch Educational Priority Policy (OVB) conducted up to 1993 show that inside the Educational Priority Areas the OVB is being implemented better and achievement has improved more than outside these areas. Results are based on data from 600 schools involving 10,000 students in each year of measurement. (SLD)

Four levels of authority within the educational decision-making structure in seven European countries and states for primary and lower secondary education are analyzed, and results are presented from a study of decision making. This study indicates a slightly higher degree of school autonomy in England/Wales, the Netherlands, and Sweden. (SLD)

Reports on a study of the effects of training in the use of social and cognitive strategies on the learning outcomes of students in secondary mathematics education. Results with 511 Dutch students show the positive effects of teaching cognitive and social strategies, with particular benefits for low-achieving students. (SLD)