Rather than contributing to the clarification of social issues, current social science policy research efforts have led to more complicated views. Qualitative research can and should (1) restrict the problem definition, (2) isolate the levers of change, and (3) identify unintended consequences of policy decisions. (Author/GC)

Suggests that where institutions such as universities agree with gatekeepers that proposed sensitive and critical research would be inappropriate researchers must create autonomous positions from which to conduct their research. (Author/AM)

Describes a two-semester course in fieldwork taught by the author in several universities. The first semester is entirely classroom-based, with students required to read heavily on all aspects of research design, methods, analysis, and problems. The second semester is a structured, qualitative fieldwork study. (GC)

The linkage between policy research and policy formation can be strengthened through the use of qualitative methods. Currently, the linkage between policy research and policy decision making is tenuous; there are differences in philosophy, function, self-definition, and criteria by which success is measured. Although research cannot dictate the…

This paper suggests that while the social sciences have closely allied themselves with administrative and political decision makers, there is a role for them as well in working with the courts. (Author/AM)

Asserts that the rights and liberties of minority children to equal protection under the law and equal access to public facilities and resources are not to be negotiated on the basis of some bit of data. These prerogatives for minority children, and in the final analysis for all of us, exist as a result of the political and moral visions we hold…