Efforts to assess quality of academic life at Vanderbilt University (Tennessee) resulted in a plan to merge qualitative and quantitative measures and uncovered political, logistical, and fiscal issues in collection and use of the two kinds of data. Although qualitative databases are costly, they are also very useful in different ways. (Author/MSE)

The problem-solving behaviors and genetics concepts employed by experts and novices during interaction with the computer simulation CATLAB, were examined. Thirteen subjects (3 experts and 10 novices) investigated a common hypothesis on a specific genetic trait during the computer activity. Using naturalistic research methods, general patterns of…

Seven chapters consider what learning is and what counts as learning in the context of formal schooling. How qualitative research assists in this examination is explored. Qualitative research is an indispensable tool in the repertoire of research approaches that will illuminate learning discourse. (SLD)

Discusses the teaching of a qualitative historical geography course focusing on Victorian Britain. Describes how qualitative research methods can be used in both contemporary human geography and historical geography. Includes course modifications that were suggested by students. (CFR)

Attempts to define a paradigm that helps shape the African-American studies discipline, and argues that emphasis must be placed on generating practical and emancipatory knowledge. African-American studies is a necessary discipline if Afrocentric scholars are to be generated who have a commitment to being scholar activists. (SLD)

A qualitative research approach with 20 secondary vocational teachers explored issues related to grading students with special needs, including (1) successful grading practices and problems/concerns of teachers; (2) teachers' perceptions of the messages that grades communicate; (3) preservice and inservice teacher preparation for grading; and (4)…

Studies the development of moral autonomy in 720 Australian secondary school and university students between the ages of 12 and 21. Examines autonomy development in the context of moral judgments. Finds the need to add a dimension of individual differences to the single dimension used to describe developmental changes. (Author/NL)

Surveys forms of narrative inquiry in educational studies. Outlines certain criteria, methods, and writing forms. Describes them in terms of beginning the story, living the story, and selecting stories to construct and reconstruct narrative plots. Describes two-part research agenda for curriculum and studies flowing from stories of experience and…

The author of EC 607 583 responds to questions about her research on mainstreamed behaviorally disordered aggressive adolescents' perceptions of helpful and unhelpful teacher attitudes and behaviors. Issues relevant to future research in this area are noted. (JDD)

In a long-term study of 14 adults with visual impairments, 11 of whom had diabetes, the concept of "the short life" emerged as a prevalent theme important for understanding the changing priorities, adaptive strategies, and general life planning of the participants, many of whose lives were marked by gradually deteriorating health and…

Asserts that qualitative research methodology represents a fundamental reconceptualization about knowledge, validity, and education. Reviews the history and trends of educational research and argues that it is increasingly legitimate to use qualitative methods. (CFR)

Presents a case study of a special education teacher candidate with a learning disability in mathematics. Issues discussed include the nature of learning disabilities in adults; possibility of workable interventions at the adult level; implications of these problems in teacher candidates; and implications for teacher education programs. (27…

Children in grade one (n=8) and grade five (n=9) were interviewed to determine the influence of contexts of meaning on their knowledge of earthworms. Four components of contexts of meaning were identified and discussed: episodic knowledge, metaphors, interpretive frameworks, and emotions-values-aesthetics. (Contains 20 references.) (MDH)

The relationship between drama in education and program evaluation is explored through the evaluation of an elementary school drama program. The compromise approach presents evaluation as a complex adaptation of an innovation or growth profile. The report contains enough hard data to be useful for policymakers but is rich in information…

Interviews with 32 traditional Lakota elders, educators, leaders, and mental-health providers found that prereservation Lakota approaches for ensuring social health and well-being were preventative, holistic, spiritual, and linked to the tribe's ceremonial life. Discusses a resurgence of traditional healing practices among the Lakota and…