Factors affecting decision-making on where to go for recreation, specifically state park choice, were analyzed in a study based on data, collected via a telephone survey, from 452 Oklahoma households. The relative accuracy of various models for predicting individual destination choices were also examined. (IAH)

Provides a physical description of semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs), both in terms of their characteristic nature in the atmosphere and the processes which control their deposition. Contains a summary of the requirements for a full assessment of atmospheric SVOCs and their deposition. (LZ)

Argues that researchers must broaden conceptual frameworks, broaden samples, and broaden methods used in the study of rejected peers in light of Merten's work (PS 524 830). Suggests that conceptual frameworks must consider the full range of characteristics that contribute to peer status, and be sensitive to contextual factors that shape peer group…

Calls for further research evaluating corporate adventure training (CAT) programs. Reviews activities and benefits associated with CAT, summarizes studies conducted on the efficacy of CAT programs, describes appropriate research designs for investigating how and why CAT programs work, and addresses barriers to producing meaningful research. (LP)

Discusses several systems models of interaction in distance education and relates them to the contexts of instructional delivery, instructional design, instructional theory, and learning theory in order to establish conceptual parameters for the function of interaction. Models covered include those developed by Dick and Carey, Shannon and Weaver,…

Presents results from the first part of a two-part study of the characteristics of research conducted in the area of developmental education. Identifies the areas investigated, types of research being conducted, and the effectiveness of the research. Indicates that serious flaws were found in 63% of the studies reviewed. Discusses four factors…

Reviews selected research in music computer-based technology and identifies four research cycles/patterns: technological development, adaptation, feasibility, and effectiveness. Asserts that identification is important because it places research in a defining framework. (MJP)

The Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH) is the largest school-based health promotion research project to date, involving 96 elementary schools nationwide. The article describes recruitment strategies used at four sites, examines how social learning theory guided project activities, discusses logistical considerations, and…

Provides an annotated bibliography of 14 recent ERIC documents on focus group applications in higher education. Includes documents describing colleges that have used focus groups to assess employer and public attitudes toward the college, assess institutional effectiveness, develop programs and curricula, and learn about student experiences. Lists…

This paper critiques and explores some of the fundamental issues that Elliot Eisner has raised in recent speeches and in an essay in this journal on art, curriculum, and educational research. The paper also examines the related essays on these topics in this journal. (JB)

A national study was conducted in New Zealand in 1988-91 to identify older people with intellectual disability. A national prevalence rate of 1.43 per 1,000 was established. The paper discusses delays in data collection, issues of identification, and the feasibility of case-finding. Challenges to procedures and research design are outlined, and…

Although the same general research principles that guide other investigations should apply to research with the Rorschach Inkblot Method, the nature of the Rorschach as a relatively unstructured measure of personality functioning calls for special attention to selection of research participants, choice of variables, and data collection and…

A formative evaluation model is proposed for use by administrators of large health services research grant programs. The model assists in assessing the purpose, methodology, and level of analysis of funded research. It is illustrated through a discussion of HIV/AIDS care. (SLD)

In 1991, the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Research Committee established an experiment using electronic mail to create mentoring relationships focusing on library and information science research. Reports on the project design and the experiment's progress to date and includes first-hand accounts of participants'…

This article reviews use of the term "best practice" in special education and suggests that the term is misleading unless measurable criteria have been systematically applied. A proposed definition focuses on the theoretical basis for a procedure, integrity of the research design and extent of replication, consensus with literature, process and…