The authors discuss the use of surveys for collecting data from a population sample and emphasise the importance of being careful with the language of data collection. [For "The Data Files 5: Graphs for Exploring Relationships," see EJ1355504.]

The 2012 edition of the "Digest of Education Statistics" is the 48th in a series of publications initiated in 1962. The "Digest" has been issued annually except for combined editions for the years 1977-78, 1983-84, and 1985-86. Its primary purpose is to provide a compilation of statistical information covering the broad field…

The 2011 edition of the "Digest of Education Statistics" is the 47th in a series of publications initiated in 1962. The "Digest" has been issued annually except for combined editions for the years 1977-78, 1983-84, and 1985-86. Its primary purpose is to provide a compilation of statistical information covering the broad field…

Examines the undercount problem in the 1990 census, the ways in which the Census Bureau has dealt with it in the past, and the Bureau's plans to avoid future undercounts. It also discusses the statistical concept of dual systems estimation in census counting as a means of lessening an undercount. (GR)

Explores whether sampling is better than head count for census taking and if there is a genuine undercount distinct from "floating" populations. Discusses whether the census should accommodate the various interests who have addressed the question of the quality of enumeration, as well as the larger responsibilities of demographers for…

Discusses the pros and cons of sampling to improve the census versus the traditional methods of census taking, and the problems that changes in procedure can create. Also discusses chronic problems in census taking, regardless of procedural methods used, and observations on how to lessen their impact. (GR)

This memorandum responds to a request from the House Subcommittee on Census and Population for information concering the planning for the 1990 Census. It identifies eleven major issues concerning the implementation of the 1990 Census: (1) determination of who shall be counted; (2) provision of data for apportionment and redistricting; (3)…

Launching an alumni survey requires consultation with many campus constituencies, thoughtful decisions about intent and content, careful planning of all operational procedures and proper promotion. Census surveys, telephone versus mail surveys, decisions on data entry, timelines, costs, publicizing, etc. are discussed. (MLW)

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) conducts a unified set of surveys that facilitates comparison between public and private schools, school districts, and administrator data. The integrated set of surveys is called the Schools and Staffing Survey (SASS). A Teacher Followup Survey (TFS) is conducted a year after the SASS survey to…