Findings from a study that compared six methods for computing dropout rates are presented in this paper, which focuses on determining those appropriate for use at the local level of administrative decision making. Statewide data obtained from the U.S. Department of Education and from the Division of Management Information Services, Florida…

The paper is a methodological inquiry into the interpretation of qualitative data. It explores a grounded-theory approach to the synthesis of data and examines, in particular, the construction of categories. It focuses on ways of organizing and attaching meaning to data, as research problems embedded in a cultural context are explored. A…

Working from a common data base and hypothesized model, this paper demonstrates and compares the EQS and LISREL computer program strategies in the analysis of a second-order factor model. Program similarities and differences are noted with respect to: (1) preliminary analyses of the data; (2) treatment of data that are not multivariately normal;…

The data used in this report to present three statistical pictures of Illinois public libraries during the fiscal year 1987-1988 comes primarily from the 1987-88 Illinois public library annual report forms. Section One presents the individual view of public library operations in which facts about use, resources, and finances are provided. Tables…

The purpose of this report is to comment on practice in the use of existing data bases in program evaluation and school improvement and to explore directions of increased and improved use. The report's impetus is the role that existing data plays in current efforts in local school districts and the possibilities for the future. To a great extent,…

Initiated in 1979, this study obtained empirical evidence regarding the predictive validity of the restructured Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Aptitude Test. Of special concern were the questions regarding the contribution of the analytical section, as well as obtaining evidence of the correlational validity of scores on the restructured verbal…

Data showing the interdependence of Columbus, Ohio with other areas around the world and classroom activities for surveying any community's links with the world are provided. (DE)

Data and activities examining world environmental pollution are provided. (DE)

The mixture of practice and study inherent in the nursing graduate program enables graduates to acquire essential skills in a variety of geographical and clinical settings. Responses from graduates and employers re-enforce the belief that education for nursing is built upon a college education. (Author/EC)

This report provides an analysis of microcomputer software available for elementary and secondary level instruction in 1989 as compared to 1984. Data from the Resources in Computer Education (RICE) database are used to compare distribution of software programs by grade level; hardware manufacturer; application type (drill, tutorial, simulation,…

Providing researchers, especially those in the social sciences, with access to publicly collected microdata furthers research while advancing public policy goals in a democratic society. However, while technological improvements have eased remote access to these databases and enabled computer using researchers to perform sophisticated statistical…

Opinions on how the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) can better meet the data needs of users of government-provided labor market data were sought from users inside and outside government. The following recommendations, among others, are based on those opinions: (1) create a quick-response household survey capability at the BLS, using random digit…

Since 1986, this annual cost study has provided a measure of what it costs the taxpayer each year to support families that began when the mother was a teenager. Three sets of public costs are estimated; these reflect: (1) how much the United States spends as a result of teenage childbearing in a given year; (2) the public cost over a projected…