Propositions about what works in program evaluation are presented: (1) evaluators should be involved from the beginning; (2) evaluation should be based on explicit programmatic theory; (3) quasi-experimental designs must have high internal validity; and (4) evaluators must combat the deterioration of experimental control that occurs in…

Provides the second half of an extensive study examining research in developmental education, evaluating the quality of the research based on a sample of 52 randomly selected articles and conference presentations. Discusses problems encountered in the studies related to the design implementation, and analysis of results from research. (33…

Redefines the "three R's" in higher education as research, reflection, and reinvestment. Explores these three aspects of contemporary education using an art historian's approach, focusing on the Renaissance period and its artists, scientists, and scholars. (EMH)

Analysis of the methods used in 25 reports of the evaluation of nursing computer-based learning packages revealed significant research design flaws invalidating many conclusions. Ways to improve evaluation research on the effectiveness of computer-assisted instruction were recommended. (Contains 49 references.) (SK)

Argues that dynamic systems theories may illuminate processes whereby public policy influences child development and highlight gaps in current relevant research. Discusses five principles of dynamic systems theories using examples from research addressing effects of current antipoverty and welfare policies on children. Concludes by suggesting…

Offers one example of a lecture that can build on personal research experience to demonstrate the ways in which attitudes of categories influence the focus, design, and outcomes of research projects. Provides some suggestions for further developing the lecture material in a post-lecture tutorial session and/or assignment. (CMK)

Presents various options for schools to consider when shopping for education reform approaches. The Social Research and Demonstration Corporation was established to identify and test social programs and innovative social policy ideas that can improve the wellbeing of disadvantaged Canadians. Examples are presented of random assignment evaluations…

Research strategies related to data collection and data analysis were identified through content analysis of 427 articles in three comparative-education journals, published between 1985 and 1995, and 112 articles published between 1964 and 1966. In recent years, the strategies used have become more diverse, the geographic focus of research has…

Considers two international research projects in environmental education. Draws attention to the interplay of contextuality and universality and the role of participatory research in this tension. (Contains 18 references.) (DDR)

Reports on Westfield State College's Animal Behavior course which requires students to design their own research projects, write a scientific research proposal, conduct experiments, and present results in the form of a scientific paper. (Author/MM)

This undergraduate laboratory experiment integrates multiple techniques ("in vitro" synthesis, enzyme assays, Western blotting) to determine the production and detection sensitivity of two common reporter proteins (beta-galactosidase and luciferase) within an "Escherichia coli" S30 transcription/translation extract. Comparison of the data suggests…

In response to the increasing call by professional organizations, journal editors, and statisticians to include not only derived significance levels from quantitative statistical procedures but also measures of effect sizes (ES), this article first provides a rationale for school counseling-related researchers to include these key indices in their…

Studies of self-induced vomiting of retarded persons have found that the rate of eating and the amount eaten alter this problem. The present study attempted to determine whether this same relationship was exhibited by the nonretarded bulimic. A nonretarded bulimic woman provided her subjective ratings of her desire to vomit after eating her taboo…

This article assesses the differences in educational deficiencies between a statewide sample of delinquent students and a matched sample of nondelinquent students. Employing a research design that controls for a series of relevant individual and school variables, the study's findings document that delinquent students are characterized by a series…

Background: Randomized control trials and the use of meta-analysis in systematic reviews are the basis of evidence-based practice. The paper reviews their use in the development of evidence-based practice in speech and language therapy. Aims: It is accepted that clinical outcome research should develop in a sequence of phases. A model of this…