This study examined elementary school teachers' knowledge of their legislative and policy-based reporting duties with respect to child sexual abuse. Data were collected from 470 elementary school teachers from urban and rural government and nongovernment schools in 3 Australian states, which at the time of the study had 3 different legislative…

This article discusses similarities and differences in government policies on literacy in the United Kingdom and the United States and the culture of mistrust that has contributed to governments taking increasing control of education. Transatlantic trends in the areas of national literacy standards, curriculum, and assessment are discussed in…

A study of beginning elementary teachers' mathematics instruction practices sought to identify the main factors influencing those practices. For all seven teachers studied, the perceived needs and expectations of students affected planning, interactive thinking, and lesson evaluation. (GLR)

Reports on the state of transition in governance in English primary schools following the Education Reform Act. Analyzes contemporary primary school practices and their antecedents, then considers a proposed national curriculum and associated assessment procedures. Focuses on the preparedness of teachers to implement changes in the classroom and…

Argues that, even though the French elementary education system has changed in recent decades, basic problems have reemerged in new forms. Maintains that, despite striking differences between France and the United States with respect to ability grouping, teaching preparation and methods, and other issues, deeper problems of the two educational…

Reviews the system of elementary education in the Republic of Ireland. Examines demographic data on the nature and size of school population and the organization of elementary education; describes curriculum at the junior and senior grade levels; presents research findings relating to reading, mathematics, science; and considers teacher and…

Describes the education of young children in the Soviet Union. Considers changes that have taken place since the school reform of 1984 within a historical perspective. Focuses on the first year of schooling and the ways in which systems attempt to inculcate values and beliefs. (Author/BB)