Describes two new measures of consistency which refer to the extent to which more closely related scale types are found together in Holland's Self-Directed Search sort. One measure is based on the hexagonal model for use with three-point codes. The other is based on conditional probabilities for use with two-point codes. (Author/ABL)

Notes that researchers are often required to examine specific model under two different situations. Cites studies in which authors compared results descriptively without use of inferential statistics. Describes use of series of regression tests to compare two situations statistically. Gives example from recent study to illustrate technique.…

Notes that intergenerational theories of family functioning sparked interest in empirical investigations that test intergenerational relationships. Presents test of difference scores enabling researchers to compare related and unrelated dyads, thus creating comparison group when using only two generations. Contrasts procedure with correlational…

Presents a research methodology related to needs assessment that can be used in a variety of settings in vocational education. It involves the use of small-group sessions and has five steps: introduction to meeting, silent generation of ideas, round-robin listing, discussion for clarification, and ranking of items. (Author/CT)

Provides an introduction to qualitative research methods. Describes principles of qualitative research and discusses appropriateness of qualitative methods for student affairs research. Explains qualitative methods, including design, data collection and analysis, and reporting of results. Identifies and addresses problems of trustworthiness of…

Describes the provenance of the data used in this issue. Includes design of the instructional sequence, instructional activities, classroom structure, and classroom episodes. (Author/MM)

Reports on: (1) the formulation of a holistic, systems-based theory of cultural transmission; (2) a field guide developed for gathering the precise data needed to test the theory; and (3) a pilot study, involving the collection and analysis of data about six- to 12-year-old Americans, Israelis, and Mexicans, to test both guide and theory. (CMG)

School context constrains and supports field researchers' data collection activities, just as it can influence the educational change processes being studied. For outsiders, the accessibility of a school is affected by a number of factors. These influence findings and have implications for achieving data comparability across several sites.…

Provides a brief overview of quantitative estimates of Colombian emigration including a discussion of how estimates were prepared. Concludes that estimates of international migration from Colombia are inflated and that such migration is not as significant as some observers claim. (CMG)

Notes that family researchers are increasingly using panel data to investigate family processes. To aid family researchers in understanding panel analysis, focuses on two panel analysis strategies--structural equation model techniques and methods of event history analysis. Several additional methods of analyzing panel data are also briefly…

Offers framework of 15 research methods varying by cost and expertise to promote more systematic approach to conducting student life research. Focuses on need for student life research. Most standard social science methods are discussed. Examples of research conducted by the Student Affairs Research, Information, and Systems Office at the…

Reviews methods for analyzing outcome data when some data are missing. Presents approach for comparing outcome results in two-group, randomized design with missing data. Proposed analysis is based on concept of "modeling our ignorance" by examining all possible outcomes, given known number of missing results with binary outcome, and then…

The state of the psychotherapy termination literature to date might best be characterized as inconclusive. Despite decades of studies, almost no predictors of premature termination have emerged consistently. An examination of this literature reveals a number of recurrent methodological-analytical problems that likely have contributed substantially…

Item response theory (IRT) methodology is introduced as a tool for improving assessment instruments used with people who have disabilities. Need for this approach in rehabilitation is emphasized; differences between IRT and classical test theory are clarified. Concepts essential to understanding IRT are defined, necessary data assumptions are…

Examines the history of data on child health and suggests ways that data could be more useful in informing policy decisions. Summarizes findings of an assessment of the effectiveness of medical care for a variety of childhood conditions. Lists recommendations of a task force on dealing with decreases in publicly funded service programs for the…