Survey instruments of many kinds are being used extensively in most states for gathering needed data which may re relevant in solving various educational problems. This study presents evaluative criteria and evaluative criteria test items which can be used to serve as guidelines in the designing, constructing, and evaluating of survey instruments…

The report deals with the relationship between measurement and data analysis procedures in sociological research. The author finds that too many measured variables exist in both theory and measurement assumptions. Since these procedures are interrelated, improvements in either or both areas are necessary. Presented are three sections: (1) specific…

Two distinct traditions have developed around the two leading methods of social research, i.e., surveys and field work. Because of the rivalry between the proponents of these two methods, there has been little opportunity to explore the advantages of combining them in a single project. Most sociological research either utilizes a single method of…

This paper presents a plan for obtaining statistical information for justifying budget requests, planning staffing, and assessing service without placing heavy burdens on the staff. (Author/JAB)

Questions are raised concerning the statistical methodology employed in the NILN. The author states that "better and more appropriate statistical methodology should be incorporated in future studies on library needs" and two alternatives are suggested. (JPF)

This paper suggests that, at present, a science of natural developmental processes does not exist because few studies are concerned with development as it transpires in naturalistic environments and because truly developmental data are not collected or analyzed. (Author/JMB)

Discusses various software packages which help science and mathematics students make sense out of data (formulating hypotheses, interpreting graphs, analyzing possibilities, and collecting data with real-time graphing). Includes a list of commercially available programs for the areas, with program name, publisher, grade level(s), price, and…

This article focuses on futures-oriented methodologies that can be used in applied vocational education research. After a discussion of several conceptual issues, methodologies having major implications for applied research are identified. These methodologies are compared and contrasted to determine which one might be most useful for a particular…

Discusses Ward's article on the potential usefulness of social science researchers for government agencies' analysis of public opinion. Emphasizes the need to gather representative data and suggests that researchers can take a proactive role by using a theory of social behavior such as Bronfenbrenner's. (CB)

Existing data on illegal immigration in the U.S. is inadequate. The limited availability of macrodata on the size of the annual flows and of the accumulated stock of individuals as well as of microdata on their influence on selected labor markets has been used to forestall policy reform efforts. (Author/RDN)

This Backgrounder Brief is an executive summary of "Data-Driven Decision Making: Vision to Know and Do," a component of CoSN's Essential Leadership Skills Series. Collecting student achievement data is nothing new in schools. But for all of the data gathered, many schools remain information poor. Educators are challenged to understand…

This guide discusses combining qualitative and quantitative research methods in theses and dissertations. It covers a wide array of methods, the strengths and limitations of each, and how they can be effectively interwoven into various research designs. The first chapter is "The Qualitative and the Quantitative." Part 1, "A…

This guide gives elementary school educators the tools they need to get answers to their questions about program evaluation. It shows how to use information to work more effectively and efficiently, and its explains how to use program evaluation techniques to make sure that the solutions selected truly solve the problems of interest. The first two…

This report summarizes efforts by the state of New York to ensure the accuracy and integrity of data reported by school districts. The Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) has taken the lead in reviewing these data, focusing on the uses of attendance and enrollment data and making recommendations for improvement in state systems and local…

This study was designed to explore age and sex differences in self concept across a broad age span and with fairly large populations utilizing a common for all Ss. (Author/RK)