Examines the conceptual framework of bipolar models of social knowledge use that are transactions between knowledge producers and decision makers. Topics discussed include methodological consequences of bipolar models; levels of validity in social research; social contexts of choosing models for social research; and views on the practice of…

Discussion of decision making focuses on a study that was conducted to examine how policymakers at the local community level use social science information in making decisions. The use of social science information and other information sources in two communities examining health care issues is described. (Contains 18 references.) (LRW)

Reviews the knowledge utilization process by decision makers and examines how state agency officials in four areas (hazardous waste management, economic development, welfare, and education) use knowledge generated by policy analysis. Appendices include components of the 1988 knowledge utilization survey of state officials. (48 references) (LRW)