Instructional strategies used in teaching oceanographic data collection techniques are discussed. These include having students examine actual data, plan and organize a research cruise on a specific budget, and analyze incomplete data sets. Rationale for using these strategies is included. (JN)

Sampling experiments were used to assess the Type I error rates of the t test in situations where classes were randomly assigned to groups but analyses were carried out on individual student scores. Even small amounts of between-class variation caused large inflations in the Type I error rate of the t test. (Author/BW)

This paper demonstrates that gain score analysis and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) will always yield conflicting results unless the slopes of within-group regression lines of posttest on pretest equal one. In Lord's specific hypothetical example, trait instability invalidates the ANCOVA. An analysis that corrects for this problem is…

Data from the responses of 104 medical and rehabilitation students to the Attitudes toward Disabled Persons Scale-Form B (ATDP-B) were factor analyzed using a principal components solution, with particular attention to the problem of the number of factors to retain. Research supports ATDP-B use as a unidimensional measure. (Author/PN)

When measuring the same variables on different occasions, two procedures for canonical analysis with stationary compositing weights are developed. Both methods are extended to allow for cohort sequential designs and a numerical illustration is presented. (Author/JKS)

The interpretation of significant left-tailed analysis of variance (ANOVA) F-ratios is supported by considering the case of a fixed effects ANOVA model. The conclusions of this case are generalizable to other standard ANOVA models. (Author/PN)

Reexamined previous statistical comparisons of two models for adolescent drug abuse using new statistical estimation methods in causal modeling not requiring assumptions about normally distributed variables. An asymptotically distribution free method shows that the models fit even better than assumed in the initial work. (Author/JAC)

An intervention program to modify behaviors of a mentally retarded female which interfered with her work production was developed through the systematic collection of performance data on a daily basis. Data thus collected illustrated the student's progress and aided the choice of treatment. (SK)

Discusses the foci of four books on productivity research. The author then assesses some strengths and weaknesses of the state of the art of productivity research. He deals with conceptual and analytical problems, management and labor aspects, and alternative lines of research. (CT)

Discusses key processes in conducting qualitative research: problem definition, gaining access to collect data, modes of data collection, modes of analysis, and presentation of findings. Compares qualitative with quantitative research methods. (JN)

Evaluation design decisions for a child care provider training program are discussed as a function of three characteristics: decentralization, local autonomy and multiple delivery strategies. While decentralized process data were gathered, only centralized outcome data were collected. The design decisions made were appropriate for such diverse…

Evaluates three strategies for controlling input-level ability differences in research utilizing ability test performance for evaluating school effectiveness: (1) longitudinal, predetermined ability measures; (2) cross-sectional, endogenous ability measures; and (3) socioeconomic measures as proxies for ability. (Author/GC)

A process to support peer group interpretations and the development of a scientific consensus is described. Specific investigations in the area of ecology are described as representative of the application of the process. (Author/MLW)

Demonstrating program impact through documentation of child progress is a problem in programs for handicapped children. It is proposed that intervenors consider approaches closely tied to the actual interventions. Four strategies are described: increased magnitude of intervention, increased power of design, refined assessment procedures, and…

Identifies eight factors that should be considered carefully by those who use and interpret achievement test data for individual children: base score, guessing factor, time factor, content validity, test reliability, instructional-level placement, diagnostic analysis, and individual pupil progress data. (RL)