The crisis of meaning within the schools can be solved neither by more school of the old kind nor by programs of leisure education. States that the problems within the schools only reflect the problems of finding real work in a rapidly changing society where work and leisure have become meaningless. (IS)

For students to develop to their fullest, educators must understand that traditional notions of potential can have a negative effect. Educators must understand the nature of potential to anticipate and promote the emergence of qualities not yet evident, as well as to capitalize on potentials already manifest. (IS)

Discusses three books which focus on educational reform in higher education. These books are "The Perpetual Dream: Reform and Experiment in the American College" (Grant and Riesman), "Interdisciplinarity and Higher Education" (Rockelmans, editor), and "Higher Education and Government" (Furniss and Gardener, editors). (KC)

Myths concerning home-based education in England are discussed. These include the myths that schooling is compulsory, that there is one right approach in education, that there is such a thing as professionalism, that local education authorities have the right to access and cooperation, and that there is consensus among home educators. (RM)

Contends that school size is an increasingly important factor in discussions concerning school effectiveness. Clarifies the current usage of the term "small secondary school" so that research can be conducted. Concludes that curriculum reform requirements will have an impact on determining effectiveness of education in small secondary…

Discusses the gap between teaching theory and practice in the context of teacher education reform. Argues that radical reforms without an understanding of current issues and problems are a mistake. Concludes that a teaching competency model that situates teaching in its social context would be more appropriate. (CFR)

Describes the controversy about the role and activities of the National Council for Vocational Qualifications (England). Discusses the primary weaknesses of the council and its competency-based education and training strategies. Suggests that the only solution may be to abolish the present system of academic and vocational qualifications. (CFR)

Reviews three books that make a contribution to the study of French educational history. Themes include provincial French education (Robert Gildea, 1985), liberal reform (Sandra Horvath-Peterson, 1984), and Renaissance public schools (George Huppert, 1984). (TRS)

Chronicles and critiques recent research on the life and work of Neill, to gain a deeper insight on his educational views. Makes extensive use of two books by Jonathan Croall: "Neill of Summerhill" and "All the Best, Neill: Letters from Summerhill." (TRS)

Discusses the educational theories of John Dewey in the context of contemporary society. Suggests that although Dewey's approach has merit for an age of turbulent change, it is unlikely that it will receive support. One reason is that society is presently dominated by the values and techniques of Frederick Taylor's scientific efficiency.…

Discusses educational and social change in 1860, 1890, 1950, and 1980 in the context of John Dewey's principles of experimentalism in education. These principles include responsiveness to social change, growth in problem solving skills, stressing the values of democracy, and recognizing the utility of scientific inquiry. (Author/KC)