Because educational researchers are becoming interested in the uses of ethnographic field methods, the author examines some of the theoretical disputes and methodological problems being experienced in contemporary anthropology, such as hypothesis testing, observer bias, and reliability. (Part of a theme issue on anthropology of education.) (SJL)

Reviews the benefits and limitations of fieldwork which the authors characterize as the most distinctly human methodology of the social sciences. (Part of a theme issue entitled "Anthropology of Education: Methods and Applications.") (SJL)

Describes the ethnographic component of a multidisciplinary evaluation, conducted by the RMC Research Corporation, of the Career Intern Program for dropouts. Includes discussion of participant observations, interviewing techniques, triangulation, unobtrusive measures, data recording, and equipment. (Part of a theme issue entitled…

The authors delineate two distinct cultures, those of academics and of students, with differing basic postulates concerning the purpose of education, the process of learning, teacher and student responsibilities, and intellect. They then suggest approaches for maximizing communication across these cultural barriers. (Part of a theme issue on…