Rules are given for finding average variances and covariances from mean squares, and the reverse. These serve the same purpose as recursion formulas provided by Stanley and Wiley (1962), but a knowledge of matrix algebra is not needed. A four-factor design is used to illustrate their application. (Author/RC)

Analyses of data are presented to illustrate the advantages of using a priori or planned comparisons rather than omnibus analysis of variance (ANOVA) tests followed by post hoc or posteriori testing. The two types of planned comparisons considered are planned orthogonal non-trend coding contrasts and orthogonal polynomial or trend contrast coding.…

A view of needs assessment consistent with ecological frameworks is presented in this paper. Discussion focuses on intensive and extensive data types, horizontal approaches, and basic assumptions and requirements of convergent analysis. Also discussed are four linking mechanisms used to connect information among data levels used in convergent…

Modal Profile Analysis (MPA) is a Fortran IV program for the identification and cross validation of relatively homogenous subgroups within a dimensional or ordination space. This classification approach is designed for use with several samples in a multiple replication design. The program consists of three stages: (1) identification of preliminary…

A paradigm for experimental studies of conversation training is developed. This paradigm offers a way of interpreting conservation training studies as well as suggesting several fertile areas for future studies. (Editor)

The usefulness of the concepts of cohort and time of measurement in descriptive developmental research was examined by comparing the time-specific cross-sectional and cohort-specific longitudinal age gradients of stable and unstable children. (Author/ED)

The epidemiological approach, as elaborated to accomodate multiple-causation of chronic disease, is suggested as appropriate for the size and the nature of the failure-to-learn problem faced by educators. The epidemiological approach begins with an examination of the health status of an area's population. Major problems are identified with respect…

Although the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) contains no subprogram that is complete in itself for analyzing repeated measures or mixed designs analysis of variance, subprogram ANOVA can be used to obtain almost all the required sums of squares for repeated measures designs, mixed designs having repeated measures on some…

THIS REPORT IS ONE OF A SERIES DESCRIBING NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE AREA OF RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. IT DEALS WITH LATIN SQUARES AS A CONTROL FOR PROGRESSIVE AND ADJACENCY EFFECTS IN EXPERIMENTAL DESIGNS. THE HISTORY OF LATIN SQUARES IS ALSO REVIEWED, AND SEVERAL ALGORITHMS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF LATIN AND GRECO-LATIN SQUARES ARE PROPOSED. THE REPORT…

In order to study procedures for increasing the return of mailed questionnaires, several types of cover letters were sent to groups of potential subjects. The three experimental variables were: (1) appeals to the potential respondent; (2) threat of a follow-up letter; and (3) stationery letterhead. Four types of appeals to the subject to…

This post-doctoral fellowship program, under the sponsorship of the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, was designed to provide a year of intensive study of the institutional self-study process and research design and methodology in higher education. The activities were divided into three overlapping phases and…

An inductive text to be used in introductory courses in educational research is presented. Rather than drawing conclusions for students, the author provides them with a series of exercises that allows them to experience what doing research actually means. The students learn to identify researchable issues, formulate and analyze research questions…

This article deals with methodological issues involved in conducting longitudinal research on the effects of aging. (JMB)