The purpose of this paper is to describe the process of conducting ethnographic research. Methodology definition and key characteristics are given. The stages of the research process are described including preparation, data gathering and recording, and analysis. Important issues such as reliability and validity are also discussed.

Since its inception, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) has been committed to the practice of documenting its statistical methods for its customers and of seeking to avoid misinterpretation of its published data. The reason for this policy is to assure customers that proper statistical standards and techniques have been observed,…

In order to obtain accurate and factual data, a survey instrument must be well constructed and a survey planned carefully and conducted under strict conditions. Of importance in planning a survey is a determination of previous and on-going research through an extensive literature review. In designing the survey, the researcher should aim at…

The sharply drawn distinction between research and evaluation, and the equally sharp distinction between the carefully controlled laboratory-type experiment and the study occurring in the field, are seen as arbitrary and not very helpful. In illustrating this thesis, the author develops a design generally regarded as a "research" design…

This report serves as the survey documentation for the design and implementation of the 2003-04 Schools and Staffing Survey. Topics covered include the sample design, survey methodology, data collection procedures, data processing, response rates, imputation procedures, weighting and variance estimation, review of the quality of data, the types of…

Article concentrates on historians who are becoming proficient in utilizing computer technology for research purposes. (RK)

Discusses procedures that should be included in the planning of research. Talks about taking the time to conduct a thorough needs analysis, develop specific objectives, and select an evaluator to help with the planning. (Author/EJT)

Twenty-nine steps necessary for data file preparation for secondary analysis are discussed. Data base characteristics and planned use vary the complexity of the preparation. Required techniques (file verification, sample verification, file merger, data aggregation, file modification, and variable controls) and seven associated pitfalls are defined…

This manual provides guidance and documentation for users of the public release data for the student component of the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS:88). The general aim of NELS, a continuing long-term project, is to study the educational, vocational, and personal development of students at various grades and the factors that…

Presents the characteristics of 199 studies included in the most recent volume of dissertation abstracts with tables: categorizing the studies by type; summarizing the use of different independent variables, and design considerations; tabulating the types of measures mentioned; and presenting data analysis techniques and sampling plans. (Author/JM)

Examines the development of statistical power as a methodological concern in the communication discipline and the effects of this concern on recent empirical research conducted by communication scientists. (MH)

This manual provides documentation and guidance for users of the public release data files (adult file and course file) for Adult Education (AE) component of the 1991 National Household Education Survey (NHES:91). The NHES:91 was a random-digit dial telephone survey developed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and conducted by…

This volume contains 11 appendices to a user's manual that provides guidance and documentation for users of the public release data for the student component of the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS:88). The general aim of the NELS, a continuing long-term project, is to study the educational, vocational, and personal development…

This document is a summary and evaluation of methodological procedures and results for the field test of the Beginning Postsecondary Student Longitudinal Study Second Followup, 1990-94 (BPS:90/94). The BPS study is a departure from previous studies in that it starts with a cohort of individuals as they enter their postsecondary studies regardless…