Debates the value of experimentation as a tool in educational research. (MK)

In the educational research literature, alpha and p are often conflated. Paradoxically, alpha retains a prominent place in textbook discussions, but it is often supplanted by p in the results sections of journal articles. Because alpha and p have unique uses, researchers should continue to employ both conventions in summarizing the outcomes of…

Describes the development of multisite qualitative research (studies that address the same question in several settings and use similar research procedures in each setting) and its use in educational research. Presents the results of a survey of 25 multisite qualitative educational studies to highlight the design's institutional and methodological…

Discusses the role of research methodology as disciplined inquiry in educational research. Uses examples to address issues of generalizability of results, precision, and choice of research methods. (MK)

Proposes a sex equity research agenda for each of the divisions of the American Educational Research Association. Identifies epistemological equality, concepts and definitions of sex equity, and methodology as fundamental concerns. Suggests activities intended to advance a dialogue that will assist in defining the research area of sex equity. (KH)

Describes efforts undertaken as part of a large scale research project to engage schools and school personnel to participate as research subjects. Identifies planning, staffing, access, formalization, maintenance of participation, and dissemination of research findings to the participating organization or individuals as critical concerns for site…

Outlines the recent transition, within educational research, from conflict to cooperation between quantitative and qualitative approaches. Asserts that compatibility is based on a confusion between method as technique and method as logic of justification. Argues that the claim of compatibility cannot be sustained and blocks an interesting and…

In educational research, rigid distinctions between the relative merits of quantitative research often rest on positivistic dogma. In contrast, post-positivistic thought eliminates the intractable problem engendered by positivistic epistemology of a forced choice between value-laden and value-free research methods. (KH)

Examines the ethical considerations involved in publishing the names of teachers, schools, and districts participating in research studies. Concludes that teacher/collaborators who forego the protection of anonymity may be vulnerable to recrimination from colleagues and administrators. (FMW)

Examines five dilemmas in postsecondary organizational theory and research, in the areas of theory development, research methods, organizational behavior context, relating theory to practice, and identifying professional colleagues. Calls for the establishment of a "peer group" to consider these issues and to ensure the continued,…

Discusses possible contributions of research on teacher thinking. Examines arguments made against the present or potential contributions of research to teacher education. Shows how the dangers that give rise to these fears can be avoided without simultaneously eschewing the positive contributions of research. (JS)

Surveys forms of narrative inquiry in educational studies. Outlines certain criteria, methods, and writing forms. Describes them in terms of beginning the story, living the story, and selecting stories to construct and reconstruct narrative plots. Describes two-part research agenda for curriculum and studies flowing from stories of experience and…

Explores reasons for the tenuous relationship between educational research and educational practice. Suggests changes in research and policy to bring educational research directly to bear on educational problems. The major problem is that researchers are searching for variables that relate to improved outcomes, whereas educational innovators are…