This framework will define the purpose and scope of NAEP's system of collecting background information, including background questionnaires and other sources of non-cognitive data. It will establish criteria for reporting background information as part of the National Assessment. The approach it suggests provides for asking various groups of…

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…

Describes a college class project in geographical survey research comparing the population characteristics in North and South New Jersey. Students made up their own questionnaires and decided on sampling procedures. Surveys revealed facts about population numbers, historical boundaries, employment, and residents' perceptions of regional…