In this essay David Labaree explores the historical and sociological elements that have made educational researchers dependent on statistics. He shows that educational research as a domain, with its focus on a radically soft and thoroughly applied form of knowledge and with its low academic standing, fits the pattern in which weak professions have…

Because scientific understanding of communicating family research to policymakers is incomplete, qualitative interviews were conducted with social scientists experienced in bridging the gulf between research and family policy. In keeping with the tenets of 2 communities and community dissonance theories, the underutilization of research in…

Information about 50 small-town governments in rural Vermont was analyzed to determine women's participation in town government. Results included the finding that percentage of offices held by women decreased as town size increased. Data suggested that women became politically active out of necessity and filled offices that reflected their…

An investigation of motivations for and satisfactions obtained from political electronic bulletin boards surveyed system users via telephone. Surveillance and curiosity were most commonly mentioned motivations for use. Overall political use was motivated equally by surveillance, personal identity, and diversion motives. System was evaluated most…

Asserts that the Watergate scandal during the 1972 presidential election altered the U.S. government and the very mood of the United States. Presents a content analysis of 5 middle school, 5 secondary, and 12 college-level textbooks. Finds that the texts exhibit weak historical discussion or analysis of Watergate. (CFR)