Using a factorially complex test on a highly homogeneous population is explored, and a procedure is demonstrated that can statistically justify using a cognitive test on which Cronbach's alpha is low. The example involves 649 accountants (auditors). Results indicate that unbundling test and sample provides justification for using the data. (SLD)

This paper introduces a new method for the detection of patterns or phases in small groups based on fuzzy pattern recognition procedures. It tells how the method provides an accurate description of all the patterns of group interaction, detects rather than assumes the number of patterns and their length, and is based on fuzzy set theory so that it…

The Revised Behavioral Assertiveness Test for Children was assessed in a study using children who judged other children's videotaped responses to the test. The results question the social validity of the component approach, and whether we may be teaching assertiveness skills that are useful to adults but not to children. (KH)

This article reviews data from the 1979 Staines-Quinn study of job satisfaction levels and contrasts them with data from similar surveys of the same era. The Staines-Quinn study's conclusions differ from conclusions of other studies and the authors examine the possible reasons for this. (CT)

The Flesch formula was used to calculate the readability of 15 financial accounting textbooks. The 15 textbooks represented introductory, intermediate, and advanced levels and also were classified by five different publishers. Two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc analysis revealed some significant differences. (Author/CT)

This study illustrates the application of causal modeling techniques in testing a conceptual model of teaching using data collected in naturalistic, nonexperimental settings. (Author/GK)

The advantages and assumptions of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and an alternative approach to ANCOVA which uses simultaneous and nonsimultaneous inference techniques are presented with an example of the latter's use. This approach is advocated for situations where it is suspected that dependent measures are a function of some initial aptitude…

Discovers the following aspects present in telephone surveys with Hispanics: (1) low refusal rates; (2) low assumed noncontact rate; and (3) high response rates with limited investment of time. Suggests that Hispanics are willing to participate in telephone surveys and that this method is useful for research and evaluation purposes. (JS)

This article reports on a survey conducted among hospital-based nurse administrators and researchers to determine the research-related issues existing among professional nursing staffs in their respective health care settings. Based on the data, implications and conclusions for nursing administrators are presented. (Author/CT)

Argues that recent attempts by followers of the critical theory school (Frankfurt) to resolve dilemmas experienced by the first critical theorists to give their notions of "substantive reason" any real meaning have failed. Also suggests reasons for the interest of North American sociologists in critical theory, despite these shortcomings. (DB)

In round two of a debate begun in November 1988, this article again reemphasizes the poor quality of Jeanne Chall's experimental phonics research and reporting inaccuracies that invalidate her conclusions. The basic flaw might lie in Chall's belief system. Includes 57 references. (MLH)

This paper considers the range of research methods used by the UK education research community. Using insights from 25 interviews with key stakeholders it describes their views on the current strengths and weaknesses in methods, and of what methodological developments are needed for future improvement in this field. Using survey returns from 521…

This report is divided into four sections. Section 1 is a short discussion of the economic theory underlying the construction of the cost of education index and an example of how the index is calculated. Also presented are descriptions of the factors included in the statistical analysis to control for quality, quantity, and cost differences and…

Results of two studies indicate that the way in which Likert scale data are scored can make a difference when statistical significance tests are used. The studies raise a number of questions about the use of Likert scales in communication research. (GT)

A study was conducted to examine and evaluate the impact of the Cooperative Information Network (CIN) Staff Development Project (CIN-SD) in individual CIN libraries and to recommend methods for establishing on-going staff development programs in libraries. This report presents findings gathered from a survey employing questionnaires and…