Replies to Carole Edelsky's response to the authors' article on the schism between proponents of whole language and traditional language arts instruction. Defends the questions posed by the authors' research agenda, and suggests that diverse research methodologies can be employed in tandem to address them. Calls for collaboration among…

Disputes the version of whole language presented by Michael McKenna et al. in the preceding article. Argues that whole language is an educational paradigm complete with theoretical, philosophical, and political assumptions and a congruent research agenda. Contends that "paradigm blindness" prevents critics from seeing the legitimacy of…

Examines the current rift in perspective between whole language arts and traditional language arts instruction by analyzing the basis of each view in research and theory. Suggests research developments that might alleviate the present impasse. Describes the need for new hypotheses, a variety of designs, improved instrumentation, and collaborative…