In this introduction to the applicaton of meta-analysis as a quantitative synthesis technique, several alternative approaches to research synthesis are described. Their advantages and disadvantages, as compared to those of the techniques of meta-analysis. Decisions that must be faced by the prospective user of meta-analysis are described.…

The first of 10 papers providing a state of the art of research synthesis in special education, the introduction/overview stresses the importance of applying scientific techniques and standards to the evaluation and summarization of substantive research findings. (DB)

Critical examination of reviews of the literature on computer-assisted instruction (CAI) compares and evaluates three traditional and 13 quantitative reviews. Synthesis of the findings indicates that typical effect of CAI is to raise outcome measures by 0.42 standard deviation units, placing average students at 66th percentile of control group…

Presented is a review and synthesis of research in science education conducted with students in grades 6 through 12 during the years 1964-78. In the meta-analysis process, eight constructs linked to learning outcomes were used as the theoretical constructs for the literature selection. The constructs include quality and quantity of instruction;…

A knowledge base on influences on student learning is emerging from a study that analyzed the contents of 179 handbook chapters and reviews, compiled 91 research syntheses, and surveyed 61 educational researchers. This analysis presents results of the research by using a 28-category conceptual framework based on models of schooling that influenced…

This paper compares the effects of desegregation on black achievement with the effects of other factors in the process of school learning that have recently been synthesized. The first section of the paper discusses techniques and guidelines for research synthesis, including meta-analysis. The second section presents a summary of the statistical…