| Abstract: | The primary purpose of this study was to identify and compare the perceptions of selected Texas business and educational leaders on newly legislated educational accountability indicators called Academic Excellence Indicators and educational accountability indicators not included in the legislation, such as academic exhibits, oral exams, essays, and portfolios. In addition, the study examined the opinions of both groups concerning quality public school education and the purpose of education for the 21st century. Research survey methodology was used to gather information. A written survey was sent to 65 superintendents heading the largest Texas school districts and 65 business leaders managing the largest Texas public and private corporations. The resulting cumulative response rate for the chief executive officers was 62.1% and for the superintendents, 78.4%. A Statistical Package for the Social Sciences-Revised (SPSSx) program was created to analyze the written responses. The chi-square statistical procedure was computed. There were differences in perceptions between the superintendents and business leaders about accountability and particularly the Academic Excellence Indicator System. Superintendents more than business leaders indicated that the indicators were good measures in assessing Texas public schools. Business leaders indicated that test results and dropout rates were the best measures. Significant differences were found between the two groups about the characteristics of quality public schools. Superintendents indicated Texas public schools were basically doing a good to excellent job turning out an educated population. Business leaders indicated the schools were doing a good to poor job. Business leaders selected the mastery of basic skills as the primary purpose of education. Superintendents selected development of emotional/physical well-being, development of positive self-concept, and helping each student reach his fullest potential. |
|---|