Introduces this special issue on multilevel models. The first two articles examine the application of multilevel modeling (MLM) in the evaluation of large-scale multi-site interventions. The next two articles focus on developmental and longitudinal data analysis, and the last two describe innovative applications of MLM. (SLD)

The heuristic value of Chilcott's essay lies less in its support for structural functionalism and more in its concern to reexamine theory in the work of earlier educational anthropologists for what earlier theories and practices can add to current research. (SLD)