There are three general scientific methods for studying the communication process: mechanistic, organic, and systemic. After reviewing the characteristics and research implications of each method, it can be concluded that the systems paradigm is most appropriate to the logic of communication theory. The systems method is defined as a process of…

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Cultural Studies Center organizes national and international resource materials; develops updated and accurate information on American Indian culture; and provides other corollary activities related to research, curriculum, and training support. The 7 objectives of the BIA field unit are designed to establish a…

If feedback from educational research is not properly related or interpreted, it can often be more detrimental than beneficial. Five factors that should be kept in mind regarding feedback are: (1) varying interpretations of research findings depending on the user, (2) ethical-human aspects, (3) validity problems, (4) interaction effects, and (5)…

This report documents study efforts to obtain information regarding the organization and performance of research and development in Pennsylvania State departments and agencies. Departmental procedures for determining research priorities, performers, project administration, and information dissemination were examined; and the relationship of these…

This review of research literature from 1963 to 1972 discusses implications of research for analysis of communication behavior in work organizations. The review is organized into four sections: contributions from organizational theory; research related to the interpersonal milieu; research related to the organizational milieu; and an examination…

This paper presents two models, one for organizing institutional research and research data, and the other for applying research findings to the decision-making process. The model for organizing research consists of four subsystems: goal-setting, program development, cost-effectiveness, and program review. Each subsystem has a distinctive…

The actual impact of research and demonstration projects in vocational education is evaluated. Criteria for a reliable research design are specified regarding sample size, sample selection, control groups, and economic and educational benefit and cost evaluation. The impact of research and demonstration projects is analyzed in the areas of…

The function of research is to perfect the tools of education and to manufacture new ones. Research opens up perspectives and informs teachers. The whole of the education system and all its components should be investigated if research is to be comprehensive and successful. Highly qualified teams of researchers are essential, bringing a variety of…

Evaluation takes place in a social context that influences research design, selection of variables, the written report, and the timing of its release. There are also consequences for program implementors and evaluators. Historical accounts of the school systems in Gary, Indiana and New York, New York illustrate these influences. (Author/CTM)

This article introduces a mini-series on research methods in school psychology. A conceptual overview of research methods is presented, emphasizing the degree to which each method allows the inference that treatment affects outcome. Experimental and nonexperimental, psychometric, descriptive, and meta-analysis research methods are outlined. (SLD)

This critique of H. Lee Swanson's "Toward a Metatheory of Learning Disabilities" comments on Swanson's concept of learning disabilities, cognitive science, and information processing theory. A different research and theory-building agenda is proposed, focusing on society's definition of learning disabilities and instructional issues and…

Urges community colleges to overcome their image problem by documenting the colleges' impact on their communities. Suggests ways to determine what data should be collected, how to collect the information, and how it can be used to empower faculty, staff, and alumni to change the institution's image. (DMM)

Research findings on the impact of language and studies with bilingual students learning mathematics are summarized. Suggestions for taking account of the influence of culture on learning, language switching, encouraging bilingualism, and supportive environments are discussed, with 13 implications presented. (MNS)

State and federal policy makers need more and better information growing out of faculty research, but because of the different arenas in which academics and politicians operate, the timing, simplicity, and channels by which research results are communicated are critically important in bridging the gap. (MSE)

This paper assesses the status of evaluation as a profession and examines the consequences of not attending to the manner in which the discipline evolves. Special concerns are (1) what the profession seeks to accomplish; (2) ways in which it functions; and (3) who can be identified as "professionals." (LMO)