The use of numerical/quantitative data in qualitative research studies and reports has been controversial. Prominent qualitative researchers such as Howard Becker and Martyn Hammersley have supported the inclusion of what Becker called "quasi-statistics": simple counts of things to make statements such as "some," "usually," and "most" more…

Library use and user studies (1973-1981) indexed in ERIC database were analyzed to ascertain areas in need of research as characterized by Tobin. Since 1972, most research conducted has been in large-scale studies and use of nonprint materials; use of government documents and library staff needs remain unresearched areas. (35 references) (EJS)

Summarizes findings from a 1983 survey on instructional computing patterns in Texas school districts that have implications for teacher training. Patterns under investigation were concerned with hardware, courseware, student populations and curriculum areas using computers, computer literacy skills for students, and teacher training efforts. (MBR)

This study examines possibility of ranking journals in physics by means of bibliometric regression models that estimate usefulness as it is reported by 167 physicists in United States and Canada. Development of four models, patterns of deviation from models, and validity and application are discussed. Twenty-six references are cited. (EJS)

Based on the concept that library use measurement should have as its basic starting point the individual patron, a method of data collection and analysis has been developed that explores individual patterns of borrowing over time. The method accounts for the number of visits on which borrowing takes place, number of items borrowed per visit, and…

In order to determine the capacity of high schools to profit from the pre-high school computer experiences of its students, a study was conducted to measure computer utilization in selected high schools of Middle Tennessee. Questionnaires distributed to 50 principals in 28 school systems covered the following areas: school enrollment; number and…

This study develops a three-stage model of the question-answering process and investigates several potential sources of extraneous variability. Discussion includes implications of findings concerning what it means to "use" library materials and services, adverbs used as response category labels, and subject's responses as predictors of…

The process described in this manual is designed to help small academic libraries systematically study the use of their circulating book collections. Originally developed in 1980, the manual has been used successfully in several small college libraries, both with and without assistance from outside consultants. In most cases, the study can be…

Describes a case study which used the Agency for Instructional Television instructional development model to develop a television series on economics. Findings show how the model guided the series, its advantages, and its strengths and limitations, and identifies discrepancies between ideal use of instructional development and actual application.…

This study investigated college students' use of and attitudes toward traditional and nontraditional news media, and the role of cable news network (CNN) and its integration into evolving news consumption patterns. Results indicate later college years are associated with heavier consumption. CNN viewers are heavier users of traditional media.…

The effectiveness of a media workshop for elementary and secondary level student teachers was evaluated through a survey designed to determine the extent to which the student teachers (1) utilized media, and (2) produced instructional materials for use in their teaching. Use of specific types of media was also investigated. (MBR)

Presents results of study which examined interlibrary loan requests received at University of West Florida to ascertain whether books that other libraries could normally be expected to buy were being requested, and how many books in "high-use" areas were being requested by other libraries. Conclusions and recommendations are included. (3…

Findings of study of online searchers' self-supported behaviors and attitudes indicate that: there are wide individual differences among online searchers in attitudes and behaviors; searchers from academic institutions differ from counterparts in other library settings; experience appears to be positively related to flexible, trial-and-error…

The social role of the personal computer and its implications for familial health were investigated in a study of approximately 100 families with microcomputers in their homes. Data were collected through a written questionnaire and through diskettes programmed to monitor day-to-day computer usage. Analysis emphasized both patterns in family use…

The Research on Evaluation Program's National Advisory Panel recommended that a means of matching evaluation methods with evaluation purposes be developed and that it include a guide to major Program publications. Practitioners in the field have also requested support on how to approach the evaluation design process to permit the incorporation of…