Computer generated data are used to show that Slinde and Linn's criticism of the usefulness of the Rasch model for equating (EJ 189 585) may have been the result of an artifact produced by the manner in which the samples were chosen in their study. (CTM)

Presents an overview of common mistakes in 1975-76 career education program evaluation: reporting weaknesses, particularly problems of omission; content of questionnaires and interviews; student sampling errors; and problems in research design and in the programs themselves. Notes evaluation needs and suggests improved evaluation questions. (MF)

Examines and defines different methods of how anthropology can make a significant contribution to nutrition education research in the study of food or dietary behavior. (DS)

Cites and provides abstracts for seven ERIC documents from the junior colleges collection dealing with graduate follow-up studies, their procedures and use. (AYC)

The French language article analyzes 60 research projects undertaken in an urban Quebec school board in order to describe the research which has actually been incorporated into educational policies. The article demonstrates the importance of the way in which research is produced and adopted to the circumstances at hand. (Author/SB)

Criticizes Strasser and Deniston's post-planned evaluation (TM 504 253) because of their: (1) emphasis on evaluation research; (2) imposition of experimental rigor; (3) inapplicability to human service projects; (4) inattention to congruity between the program and its environment; (5) distinct characteristics of program evaluation; and (6)…

The distinction between experimental evaluation (which employs generalizable analyses of discrete causes and effects) and contextual evaluation (which examines particular program operations holistically) is articulated. Program characteristics are examined and linked to experimental and contextual models of program evaluation. (Author/MH)

Presents general systems models (ballistic system, guided system, and adaptive system) and an evaluation matrix to help in examining training evaluation alternatives and in deciding what evaluation is appropriate. Includes some guidelines for conducting evaluation studies using four designs (control group, reversal, multiple baseline, and…

There is a growing realization that educational research on student learning often has little impact on teaching practice because the research is irrelevant, and that a new formulation of the problems research should tackle and the methodology it should employ is needed. (JMD)

A model of psychological treatment increasing internality and regaining control over stressful environments was tested among college students. The two experiments assessed: (1) the locus of control regarding recent events and individual characteristics; and (2) the locus of control and manifest anxiety at pretreatment and posttreatment. Results…

Research consultants are serving educational institutions. Functions of the research consultant are detailed in a contractual agreement, and duties are understood by all. Increasingly less clear appears to be the role of this consultant as he interacts with project personnel. Ten principles are advanced as guides to successful research consulting.…

Argues research on the efficacy of special education is poor. Describes key flaws including (1) lack of proper control groups; (2) studies that utilize matching of similarly disabled students rather than random selection; (3) measurements of effectiveness; and (4) studies that have become outdated as the functional definitions of labels have…

In Canada's Exemplary Schools Project, a national committee designed and coordinated 21 case studies. A committee member recounts decisions made about design and method, and highlights differences between method and methodology, as well as variations in conceptualization of qualitative research. Discusses the meaning of "exemplary,"…

Simple methods for detecting attrition (nonresponse) in longitudinal evaluations are reviewed, focusing on regression-based analyses of data from a longitudinal evaluation. The approaches are illustrated with data from the Fort Bragg Evaluation, an evaluation of a major demonstration in children's mental health services. (SLD)

Presents the author's perspective on the topic of educational intervention for students with learning disabilities through a discussion of using validated, curriculum-based measurement as a determinant of effective instruction. Also examines the optimal characteristics and ethics of intervention research and the dissemination and implementation of…