Investigated the effect of row versus table (clustered desks) seating arrangements in three classrooms with children having emotional and moderate learning difficulties. Results showed on-task behaviors doubled as conditions changed from desk clusters to rows. Rate of disruption was three times higher in the desk cluster seating arrangement.…

Discusses the basic character of qualitative, humanistic research, identifying its philosophical and theoretical commitments. Provides a taxonomy of investigative strategies employed, including naturalistic inquiry, contextualization, maximized comparisons, sensitizing concepts, and analytic induction. Classifies methods employed as participant…

Participant observation of 32 mildly learning handicapped and 32 nonhandicapped adolescents in a high school setting found that handicapped adolescents had fewer friendships than did their nonhandicapped counterparts, less stable friendships, and less evidence of intimacy and empathy between pairs of handicapped peers. (Author/DB)

This paper critically reviews administrator work activity studies which follow the research of Henry Mintzberg. It discusses directions for future research using qualitative and quantitative methods and discourages research that relies solely on Mintzberg's structure. (Author/JAZ)

Methods developed by staff at the Herzen Pedagogic Institute in Leningrad for observing and analyzing lessons taught by student teachers are described and compared with other techniques. (Author/MT)

The critical incident technique is an exploratory qualitative method of research which generates a comprehensive and detailed description of a content domain. It consists of asking eyewitness observers for factual accounts of behaviors (incidents) which signficantly contribute to a specified outcome (are critical). This paper illustrates how to do…

Investigated accuracy of responses to biodata questionnaire using a test-retest design and informed external observers for verification. Responses from 237 subjects and 200 observers provided evidence that many responses to biodata questionnaire were accurate. Assessed sources of inaccuracy, including social desirability effects, and noted…

The first of a three-part series on teaching about photography, this article argues that photography is significantly different from drawing and painting and that the differences should be highlighted so that photography can be appreciated for what it uniquely offers. The concepts treated are selectivity, instantaneity, and credibility. (JDH)

Presents conceptual framework for library and information science research and analyzes research methodology that has application for information science, using as example results of study conducted by authors. Rationale for use of qualitative research methods in theory building is discussed and qualitative and quantitative research methods are…

Discusses the use and significance of geologic generalizations. Provides examples of different types of geologic observations and describes how they relate to the way explanations are formulated. Proposes that the mentioned generalizations be regarded as "laws." (ML)

Examines the tendency of observers to make less reliable recordings of behavorial events when a calibrating observer is absent. Using four different multicategory systems, 26 experienced observers coded 200 hours of videotaped family interactions. Concludes that observers lapse into a less attentive "set" prior to coding without a…

Investigates (1) whether differences between boys and girls indicated by teacher rating were similar to those indicated by direct observation and (2) whether teachers' assessments of the relative frequencies with which children show particular types of behavior agree with those obtained by direct observation. (RH)

Three studies of children's verb meanings examined the development of action categories and evaluated a model which posits that categories specific to self-action or observed action are extended to encompass both kinds of instances as children develop the ability to note parallels between themselves and others as initiators of action. (Author/BW)

Provides a critical overview of articles in this issue on field work in administration and policy. Focuses on three recurrent themes: field worker role; reciprocity (the repayment a fieldworker makes to his or her informants); and ethics. (KH)

Teacher evaluations can prove very effective if sufficient observation time is allowed, classroom activities are noted objectively and thoroughly, both positive and negative findings are discussed fully with the teacher, and opportunities for improvement are provided. (PGD)