Three methods of synthesizing correlations for meta-analytic structural equation modeling (SEM) under different degrees and mechanisms of missingness were compared for the estimation of correlation and SEM parameters and goodness-of-fit indices by using Monte Carlo simulation techniques. A revised generalized least squares (GLS) method for…

The idea of civic engagement among school staffs is explored with the aim of understanding why reform initiatives often fail to be initiated fully in urban schools. This synthesis of findings across nine separate program evaluations conducted for the Philadelphia Education Fund (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) was prompted by the recognition that the…

The analytical process used in building a compendium of examples of accomplishments by the National Water Quality Initiative (NWQI) of the Cooperative Extension System is presented and discussed. Lessons learned are cited, and recommendations for future efforts to synthesize evidence on major program thrusts are made. The NWQI is focused on…

This paper reports on existing studies and uses meta analysis to compare and synthesize the results of 20 studies from 8 research reports comparing the ability measure equivalence of computer adaptive tests (CAT) and conventional paper and pencil tests. Using the research synthesis techniques developed by Hedges and Olkin (1985), it is possible to…

To maximize knowledge from existing studies and to determine how job satisfaction constructs have been operationalized in the field of educational administration over the last quarter century, reliable and valid procedures must be developed to synthesize findings from the studies empirically. This study synthesizes empirical findings on job…

Despite the current need for strong leadership skills to facilitate task achievement, individual development, and social action in an increasingly complex society, women are failing to make significant headway in educational administration. Lack of leadership opportunities for women limits both individual and organizational potential. The problem…

Because research synthesis enables one to determine either the overall effectiveness of a particular treatment or the relative effectiveness of different types of treatments, it is becoming increasingly popular as a tool in program evaluation. Numerous methodological problems arise, however, when research synthesis is applied to studies conducted…

Ways in which behavioral scientists can use both vertical (logical) and lateral (creative-intuitive) thinking to improve their research are discussed. Creativity in the selection of research questions would require that behavioral scientists ask questions whose answers could make a difference to societal and world well-being. Behavioral scientists…

A study of discourse synthesis (readers/writers composing new texts by selecting, organizing, and connecting content from source texts) examined the performance of accomplished and less accomplished readers in the 6th, 8th, and 10th grades on a report-writing task. Over a 3-day period 60 English/language arts students wrote informational reports…

Drawing on research conclusions about the process of educational change, this report seeks to demonstrate the importance of understanding the diverse factors that inhibit or enable school improvement efforts. The report focuses on leadership and support in achieving successful change and stresses that principals are but one of several players who…

The curriculum, designed for use with gifted students at the junior high level, presents units of instruction which emphasize the higher level thinking skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. An introductory section explains each of the three higher level skills and presents tasks illustrating each one. Four units are presented, complete…

Story telling is defined as a kind of journalistic documentation, based on directly observable referents, and used to contribute to an understanding of educational problems. In the area of educational research, story telling is part of the genre which includes case studies, ethnography, and ethnology. Story telling describes an environment in…

Reviewing five large-scale investigations of educational dissemination and change, this report synthesizes and consolidates their findings and implications around an issue of common interest to policymakers, program administrators, and researchers: what can be learned from these studies about processes and procedures that facilitate knowledge…

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;…

Several characteristics have been identified as permeating the lives of a great many dropouts. The potential dropout may be several years retarded in reading and mathematics, and is usually plagued by personal, social, and familial problems. Suggestions for stemming the alarming rate of school dropouts include community provision for treatment and…