Multi-Level Information Systems in Education.

Surveys educational data needs, existing systems, available computing, and proposes a radically new remote-access computerized file system. Unlike existing management information systems, it provides for differential access by students, parents, teachers, principals, administrators, government officials, and legislators. Data from many schools are entered, sorted, and analyzed. Secondary, college, and work experience of elementary graduates can be included to help determine results. A bonded outside information banker designs the system, monitors input for quality and quantity, processes data, and provides each user with only the information that he is entitled to have. Parents may learn about their own children but not others, taxpayers are entitled to statistical but not individual records, etc. The control rules should be set by law; the legislative hearing is the appropriate arena. This system is designed to aid the emerging pluralistic structure of American education, in which all parties make responsible and informed choices. 118 pp. Ref.