A common problem in the behavioral sciences is to determine if a set of observed variables can be more parsimoniously represented by a smaller set of derived variables. To address this problem, the performance of five methods for determining the number of components to retain (Horn's parallel analysis, Velicer's Minimum Average Partial (MAP),…

This report analyzes possible causes of current trends in educational achievement and discusses implications for policy. It uses data described in the publication "Trends in Educational Achievement," a Congressional Budget Office study released in April 1986, which assessed data about trends in test scores. This report begins with a…

The influence of biological science research on the development of physical education curriculum is examined in this paper. The social construction of scientific knowledge is described as occurring in the selection of problems to be studied, the collection and interpretation of data, the dissemination of results, and the educational uses of…

Over the past two decades, theorists and researchers in cognitive structural developmental psychology have begun to investigate the social processes that impact upon individual cognitive growth. Studies have focused on how interactional processes lead to cognitive development but not on how the interactional processes are formed. This paper…

In this article we address questions raised by the research methods used in teacher research by exploring a particular approach to teacher research. This approach is based in teachers' concerns with underachieving children, particularly those who come from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds. It grows out of the work of the Brookline…

Triangulation strategy results in evidence characterized by the following: (1) convergence; (2) inconsistency; and (3) contradiction. In order to render the data sensible, the researcher or evaluator must report data collection procedures, as well as the three levels of information from which explanations of social phenomena are constructed. (BJV)

Intergroup theories stress context as an important factor in research. This is especially true in the study of minority groups where understanding may be lost if the world view of the informants is different than that of the researcher. Two empirical studies are compared to exemplify such differences in outcomes. (VM)

Considers the use of graphic aids with regard to readers' ability to integrate graphic with written information. Points out students' need for instructional activities that develop skills such as inference through information coordination of the graphic aid, text, and prior knowledge. Presents the three stages of the GIL. (JK)

Interpretations of empirical findings on the current trend of economic deterioration among blacks lay blame on the victims instead of on racism and the economics of capitalism. This special issue presents findings of the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, with articles interpreting the data along the lines of theories developed by black…

After discussing the concepts of "white" and "black" masculinity, the article discusses the following factors constraining black male role assumption: (1) structural constraints; (2) societal constraints; (3) dysfunctional socialization messages; and (4) psychological factors. Three theories on black masculinity are discussed and their weaknesses…

Problems in current special education categorical research practices are discussed in terms of consistency and reliability, student heterogeneity, and lack of distinct categorical groups. Suggested changes include characteristic-oriented categorization, corresponding changes in dissemination of research findings, and greater specificity and…

Social studies instruction using a variety of data sources engages elementary school children in relatively autonomous collecting, organizing, and evaluating of data--processes necessary for exercising sound judgment and taking appropriate action. (RM)

Provides a description of a computer program developed to supplement instruction in testing of antibiotics on clinical isolates of microorganisms. The program is a simulation and database for interpretation of experimental data designed to enhance laboratory learning and prepare future physicians to use computerized diagnostic instrumentation and…

Analyzes the self-report questions on language and ethnicity used in population censuses. Attempts to show the methodological consequences of specific question phrasings for the measurement of language maintenance and shift and of ethnic group maintenance and assimilation. Supports the analysis with examples from U.S. and Canadian censuses. (SED)

School system leaders are discovering the power of data for promoting school improvement. This guide provides practitioners, parents, and community with insights and tools for cultivating a districtwide culture of data-driven inquiry. Chapter 1 points out that data provide quantifiable proof, taking the emotion and rancor out of the…