Presents a brief overview of good research design and related statistical concepts in deliberately non-technical language and argues that an awareness of the basic principles of valid research on the part of teachers and researchers is necessary to put the findings of language and education research into proper perspective. (Author/CB)

Language research and language teaching can and should enjoy a relationship of cooperation and respect that is often lacking. A survey of the literature reveals how much of the friction stems from misunderstandings or exaggerations, not from any essential disaccord between the two domains. (Author/CB)