Presents a postmodernist critical analysis of the second language acquisition (SLA) theory-building literature as primarily represented in the writings of Beretta, Crookes, Eubank, Gregg, Long, and Schumann. Argues that there is no foundational reason to grant privileged status to the modernist view of SLA espoused by these scholars. (67…

To the debate between the Rortyan pragmatic model of scientific research advocated by Cleo Cherryholmes and the scientific realism espoused by Ernest R. House is added another model for educational research based on the realism of John Dewey's pragmatism. Constructivist and behaviorist aspects of Dewey's philosophy are explored. (SLD)

Summarizes "The Science Report Card" representing the fifth assessment by National Assessment of Education Progress done in 1986. Discusses the trends and reasons of the report data. (YP)