Between 1976 and 1980, the Philippines developed an infrastructure for researching, writing, publishing, and distributing textbooks for the nation's public schools. The history of the project, including the process of implementation, the textbooks, project evaluation, and the second phase are discussed. (IS)

While Nepal no longer needs to purchase textbooks from India, the development of a national textbook publishing industry has not been problem-free. High costs, shortages of qualified editors, and problems with finding competent printers, storing printed books, and distributing texts have all complicated textbook production. (IS)

Because most Nigerian children receive only limited schooling, it is important to use this time as effectively as possible. One way to improve Nigerian schools is by teaching children in their native language, so that they will not be hindered by the need to master two languages and cultures. (IS)

Examines the accepted economic theories about the role of academic education in economic development. The author challenges the idea that expanding education increases consumption in developing countries, like Spain, which have scarce financial resources, a need for technically trained workers, and no tradition of long-term academic education. (AM)

Examines the impact of the World Bank on education funding in developing countries. The author concludes that the bank's objectives make education an instrument of national economic growth rather than contributing to individual development. (AM)

Defines effective educational research in developing countries as that which influences educational aims. Descriptions of studies analyzing educational research effectiveness, recommendations for institutions doing educational research to increase their effectiveness, and recommendations for future effectiveness studies are included. (AM)

Outlines a taxonomy of six kinds of educational research and their individual impact on educational change. After discussing factors which limit the impact of such research, the author concludes that the social mechanisms for the diffusion of new ideas, rather than the research itself, determine educational change. (AM)

Describes the social and educational factors affecting the generation of high quality educational research and the degree of its utilization in developing countries. Examples of imaginative and appropriate research from several countries are included. The author recommends increased flexibility and imagination in future research designs. (AM)

Compares the different conditions and effects of locally and overseas funded educational research projects within developing countries. The author recommends that overseas funding donors become more sensitive to local expectations, complement local funding sources rather than competing with them, and encourage long-term research with low-level…

Challenges the assumption that high level, educational research is appropriate in developing countries. Using Zaire as an example, the author argues that international funding agencies' institutional needs tend to make them set up western-style research organizations which are incompatible with the needs of the recipient country. (AM)

Examines the factors affecting the diffusion of educational assessment studies done in four countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, Phillipines, Thailand). The author concludes that educational research designs in developing countries must include mechanisms for information diffusion to the public and policy-makers to insure both short and long-term…

Describes a conference organized to examine the scope of educational research within Latin America. The article outlines the focus of current studies (education of disadvantaged children) and their design characteristics, regional information networks, local research organization and funding sources, and the socio-political impact of research in…

Reviews three Jamaican research projects (two funded by the Ford Foundation, one government funded) which responded to the need to improve English language teaching to Creole speaking children at elementary and secondary levels. The author suggests that immediate government needs give priority to funding for applied research (curriculum reform)…

Presents a case study of a program to improve functional literacy among adult Indian villagers. In attempting to fit the program to local conditions, organizers encountered problems of curriculum design, enrollment fluctuation, teacher training and effectiveness, role conflicts, and in the placement of education centers. (AM)

Discusses development education as an educational process aimed at preparing people for participation in change and examines the implications for disarmament education. Development education is interpreted to include adult literacy education as well as a system of spreading basic concepts and encouraging and developing local initiatives. (DB)