Posits a generic framework for policy study disciplines based on systems analysis and uniting five dimensions--policymaking processes, policy content, administration, consequences, and context. Reviews relationships between some aspects of economic theory and taxation and applies the framework to tax policy analysis. (MJL)

Educational reform depends more on clearly defined missions and operational efficiency than on improved teacher quality. This article defines adequacy, equality, equity, and efficiency; examines numerous production function studies of teacher characteristics and policy and administrative structures; and summarizes seven policy implications.…

Reviews resource allocation studies and includes an overview of resource allocation in public education and a review and analysis of studies by unit of analysis. Argues for informed resource allocation to increase school productivity. (MD)

This paper reports the results of a state equity analysis in North Carolina based on conditions in 1975-76 and 1982-83. Since the state funding mechanism in North Carolina does not adjust for variation in local fiscal capacity, the focus of the analysis is on fiscal equity in local funding provisions. (TE)

Changes in cash management practices from 1978 to 1981 were investigated in a random sample of 145 North Carolina school districts, stratified by attendance size. Analysis using chi-square tests indicated the level of investment sophistication (as measured by the proportion of cash invested) has increased, especially for large districts. (RW)

Assesses the economic benefits derived by Texas teachers in 1978-79 from their investment in teacher education and compares Texas teachers' returns on education to those of White workers with high school or higher education degrees. Concludes that Texas teachers' investments in education were not profitable at any degree level. (Author/RW)

Summarizes the activities of the 97th Congress on taxes. Reviews 1981 enactments and 1982 proposals regarding tax cuts, tax increases, indexing of tax brackets, interest earnings, depreciation, and business incentives. Examines tax administration problems and flat-rate tax proposals and discusses the progressive income tax. (Author/RW)