Systematic reviews have witnessed significant growth across many fields, including education. In this article, we outline the background of this growth, highlight the tendency to focus on methodological considerations, and propose a framework to support education researchers in preparing systematic reviews with broad impact. We draw on our…

In comparing several research and evaluation studies, the author contends that variation in outcomes may provide clues to valuable information. Five examples are used to illustrate how conflicting findings can be useful. (RLV)

The vote-counting method of research integration disregards sample size and important descriptive information. Meta-analysis allows for integration of vast amounts of information, standardizes measuring scales, and overcomes contradictory findings. Two objections to meta-analysis are inclusion of studies of poor quality and the issue of…

Most of the variance in educational effectiveness studies is inexplicable in terms of influences that can be measured and controlled. Nevertheless, it is still possible to design educational policy that will function well under conditions of uncertainty. (Author/RLV)

In response to a recommendation that the Office of Educational Research and Development (OERI) adopt consensus panels such as those used by the National Institutes of Health and the Food and Drug Administration, this paper tries to represent the range of consensus panel applications and to identify the major considerations for OERI application. A…

Reviews literature concerning underutilization of educational research by practitioners and pros and cons of condensed and synthesized research reports. Proposes a method for research dissemination based on direct mailing of synthesized reports to teachers in response to their requests for specific information. (JHZ)

Discussing concepts presented in "Philosophy and Education: Eightieth Yearbook of the National Society for the Study of Education," the author suggests an approach to knowledge-building that would make educational philosophers the synthesizers of interdisciplinary knowledge in the social sciences. Problems with existing conceptual…

As part of the efforts of the Office of Educational Research and Improvement (OERI) in support of the national goals for education (America 2000), staff members are cataloguing and synthesizing research to connect it to federal practice. This paper presents the basic argument that synthesizing research and translating it into practice-oriented…

A workshop was conducted to give participants an opportunity to explore how to apply a different paradigm for learning in organizations. The workshop agenda was as follows: presentation of the theory and supporting research; experiential activities to apply the paradigm in academic and organizational settings; small group discussion aimed at…

The National Reading Panel (NRP) reviewed quantitative reading research focusing on grades K-3 to identify methods leading to reading success. The following areas were identified as key areas in the process of beginning to read: (1) phonemic awareness; (2) phonics; (3) fluency; (4) vocabulary; and (5) comprehension. The research findings were…

This document is intended to help practitioners and researchers in the United Kingdom find and use Internet-based research resources dealing with raising achievement. The introduction discusses the state of research into school effectiveness in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. Part A, which reviews available World Wide Web sites devoted to…