This paper investigated the methodological challenges related to the use of computer-mediated communication (CMC) to investigate the impact of gender identity on student perceptions of university life. This longitudinal research project at the University of Cambridge (England) sought to determine the reasons for the disparity in numbers of…

"Sesame Street," 30-years-old in 1999, is possibly the most influential program in children's educational television. This book collects and synthesizes key research studies since the program's inception, describing the processes by which educational content and research are integrated into production, reviewing major studies of the…

Examines in 13 articles, three areas of change in family research methodology. Considers major determinants of change in the subject matter of family studies. Addresses the central measurement problem of family studies, i.e., relationships. Presents illustrative examples of the advancement of research technologies in family studies. (RC)

A review of the literature suggests that choice of control group may have affected the policy implications of the major evaluations of governmental training programs. It is argued that the usual evaluation designs underadjust for preprogram differences between trainees and the control group and thus yield biased estimates of program impact.…

This article reviews research on mainstreaming handicapped children. Topics include methodological problems, case studies, child-child interaction, peer imitation, mainstreaming and the teacher, the family's role, and transition and follow-up. Implications for early childhood educators are listed. (Author/DB)

The judicial branches of government have unique needs for evaluative information and limited resources; this must be recognized in order to increase the utilization of applied social research by courts and lawyers. (Available from: Jossey-Bass, Inc., 433 California St., San Francisco, CA 94104, single issue, $6.95.) (GDC)

Contract research has increased because of: agencies' time limits; governmental agencies' skepticism about academics' practicality; and a power struggle between government and universities for control of the information production business. Implications of the increase in contract research are discussed and recommendations are made. (MH)

Title I Evaluation models using uniform procedures and data collection for state and national comparisons are interpreted as federal endorsement of basic, common competencies in reading and mathematics. Basic competencies, content homogeneity, conversion methodology, and validity of the evaluation are discussed. (MH)

Reflects upon the process of writing a thesis, from the initial choice of topic through the selection of case studies and organization of interviews and supporting material, to the data analysis and writing. Discusses some of the problems that were encountered at each stage. (MJP)

This article reviews and synthesizes recent research on higher education faculty shortages in the special education field, and outlines areas of needed research. Issues discussed include high attrition rates, faculty diversity, and insufficient and misplaced incentives. Strengths and weaknesses of available research are discussed. (Author/PB)

Briefly reviews and criticizes recent research into declining undergraduate economics enrollment. Argues that this research fails to consider an integral variable, the student's perspective. Recommends a 1981 student survey profile as a model to follow for future research. (MJP)

Discovers little change concerning the use of animals in undergraduate psychology programs that do not offer a graduate degree. Few institutions have had any contact with animal rights activists and most chairpersons report that students generally favor the use of animals. Lists alternatives to animal use. (MJP)

Provides an outline for planning and writing a geography dissertation. Addresses such fundamental concerns as selecting a topic, research methodologies, funding, and advisors. Recommends a variety of simple yet effective planning and implementation tips. (MJP)

Presents concerns over the "Early Years Study" (McCain & Mustard). Focuses on diversity issues related to the readiness measure used, parenting styles, and the importance of first language development. Questions the report's definition of "developmentally-attuned." Concludes by expressing hope that the Early Years Study…

Explores whether student subjects' implicit leadership theories are generalizable to professional subjects. Samples consisted of 220 undergraduates and 152 government employees in New Zealand. Finds the mean importance ratings were similar for the 2 samples, except students placed greater importance on factors beyond individual control. (DB)