Presents an interview with Emerson J. Elliott, Commissioner of Education Statistics, on the subject of leadership, government service, and the relationship between research and statistics. Some principles of leadership that are distinctive to the federal bureaucracy are addressed. (GR)

Argues that experimental and field research can now demonstrate causal relationships between teaching techniques and learning, and that effective teaching practices can be taught. Urges, therefore, that improving teacher education be given high priority. (MCG)