More information is necessary about constraints placed on teachers before sound classroom performance evaluations can be conducted. Results of an observational instrument utilized in South Carolina, "Describing Practices and Intentions of Classroom Teachers," isolates classroom factors associated with appropriateness of teachers'…

Naturalistic inquiry is an alternative to traditional assessment and experimental methodologies for measuring the effects of early intervention programs with young handicapped children. Discussion focuses on (1) the inductive nature of the naturalistic method; (2) potential strengths and weaknesses; (3) procedures for data collection. (Author/JW)

Analyzes six paradigms used in research on teacher effectiveness: (1) process-anecdotal; (2) process-systematic; (3) process-product; (4) experimental; (5) process-process; and (6) process-process-product. Recommends that paradigms coexist since all are based on direct observation of classroom behavior, and each represents a different,…

Teachers rated 63 first graders on three rating scales: the Quay-Peterson Behavior Problem Checklist, the Miller School Behavior Checklist, and a scale involving frequency estimates of disruptive behaviors. Data analysis revealed considerable independence of the major types of measurement (direct behavioral observation vs. global ratings).…

Evaluated the effectiveness of a training group for health care workers (N=5) engaged in learning interpersonal skills. Two research confederates observed and recorded group process. While participants reported a positive experience to the trainer, a negative experience was reported among group members, suggesting the possibility of subject bias.…

Principal performance can improve if daily 15-second visits to every classroom are made a high priority. Tips include determining teacher attitudes and kinds of teacher-student interactions, looking at the classroom environment, and listening to between-classes student conversations. (KS)

SYMLOG is a comprehensive field theory that synthesizes and integrates a diverse spectrum of social scientific frameworks. Through its quantification and organizations, one can describe and evaluate personality, values, and interpersonal relationships through three dimensions, the end product being a field diagram. Its application to work with…

The methodology of participant observation in evaluation research is described. The author cites examples of its use and includes references to additional sources of information. The characteristics of participant observation, appropriate circumstances for use, and specific techniques of this method are examined. (Author/DWH)

Experimental group trainees who used well-defined observation systems to collect teacher/pupil data for feedback to peers maintained a higher level of pupil accuracy during direct instruction, maintained a brisker presentation and correct rate, and tended to prompt correct responses less often than the control group. (Author)

This paper deals with use of field research in an investigation of diffusion and use of information in environment of working poor. Highlights include discussion of field research and identification of conceptual themes (gaining entry, field researcher's role, anxiety in field research, rapport, reciprocity, empathy, maturity). Forty references…

Presents the Dyadic Interaction Scoring Code (DISC) as a marital observation system designed to be compatible with the Datamyte 900 Data Collector. Its derivation from existing coding systems and its contributions are discussed. Data on marital interaction provide a research example of its usage. (JAC)

The advantages of "script taking" for use as a supervisory skill are presented. It is an easy and efficient alternative to expensive electronic taping in observing teacher performance. (MD)

This study investigated high school students' notetaking practices and compared them with expert notetakers. Reseaarchers found crucial differences between experts and adolescents. Induced prereading brings adolescent notetakers closer to the experts. (MD)

An assessment approach for students with special needs includes an initial screening and a time sampling observation of the student in class. Observations are then used as discussion points with parents, children, and staff confidence; the approach nevertheless suffers from a lack of available classroom-based assessment programs. (CL)

Site visits are one of the means the Department of Education uses to document each charter school's performance and progress. These visits usually take place during the second and third years of the charter. The Charter School Office, however, reserves the right to conduct visits at other times when deemed necessary. The primary purposes of a site…