This manual and the accompanying software are intended to provide a step-by-step guide to conducting a meta-analytic study along with references for further reading and free high-quality software, "Meta-Stat.""Meta-Stat" is a comprehensive package designed to help in the meta-analysis of research studies in the social and behavioral sciences.…

The purpose of this study was to examine the degree to which agricultural education research has adhered to a structured approach over the past decade. Specifically, the study sought to determine the types of research conducted in agricultural education, the extent to which researchers used conceptual and theoretical frameworks, the extent to…

This study examined the relationship between writing quality, readability, and selectivity in 17 higher education journals. Readability was assessed through two indexes of readability. Data were analyzed using zero-order Pearson product-moment correlations, independent two sample t-tests, and analysis of covariance. Findings show that quality of…

The Learning Style Inventory (LSI; Kolb, 1976; 1985 ) is a commonly used measure of learning styles based on Kolbs Experiential Learning Model. The psychometric soundness of LSI scores has been critiqued historically. This study reviewed the literature on the LSI and evaluated the psychometric properties of Kolbs original and revised versions of…

Teacher efficacy has proven to be an important variable in teacher effectiveness. It is consistently related to positive teaching behaviors and student outcomes. However, the measurement of this construct is the subject of current debate, which includes critical examination of predominant instruments used to assess teacher efficacy. The present…

Researchers consistently fail to report reliability estimates for data used in their studies. This lack of reporting hinders appropriate evaluation and interpretation of data and may lead to inappropriate conclusions. Because reliability is inured to scores obtained from a test, and not the test itself, it is important to report score reliability…

Synthesizes findings of 18 published experimental studies comparing face-to-face and computer-mediated communication (CMC). Finds that in general, discussions using CMC take longer, produce more ideas, and have greater equality of participation; but that there is reduced normative pressure and poor comprehension of the discussion in CMC. (SR)

Proposes a new explanation for accumulated research findings concerning door-in-the-face (DITF) influence strategy. Treats successful DITF implementations as guilt based. Finds explanation consistent with theoretical and empirical understandings of the nature of guilt and with guilt-based social influence. Suggests a significant role for a new…

Examines the findings of self-concept studies and meta-analyses that examine the development of healthy self-concepts in children and adolescents. A theoretical model for self-concept is presented that proposes how healthy self-concepts develop and can be acquired. Recommends that future self-concept research employ only scientifically defensible…

Uses quantitative meta-analysis to examine studies on the direct and indirect effects of principal's leadership on student achievement. (Contains 48 references and 4 tables)(PKP)

Study (a) describes the hierarchical linear models approach to answer general meta-analytical questions for single-case data; (b) compares the approach with the Busk and Serlin approach; (c) presents hierarchical linear models that can be used in various situations for quantitative integration of single-case data; and (d) shows how the SAS…

Conducted a meta-analysis of 46 studies addressing the validity of classifying poor readers by the discrepancy between IQ and reading skills. Children who are poor readers but do not display such a discrepancy are not eligible for special education under the learning disability category. Results provide little evidence in support of the validity…

Presents a review and meta-analytic summary of existing studies of metaphor's persuasive effects. Indicates that metaphor appears to exert a small effect on perceptions of source dynamism, but shows no demonstrable impact on competence or character. Concludes that the superior organization explanation of metaphor's persuasive impact was most…

Synthesizes studies categorized by medical specialties and using the following instruments into the Five Factor Model of personality: Adjective Check List, California Psychological Inventory, 16 Personality Factor Questionnaire, and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Suggests a loose association between personalty factors and medical specialties and…

Presents results of a meta-analysis of studies that compare drug prevention programs led by peers to the same program led by adults. Overall, peer-led programs were found to be somewhat more effective than adult-led programs. It is concluded that the effectiveness of a prevention program is determined by several characteristics of the program.…