This paper addresses a variation of the traditional validity question asked of qualitative researchers. Here the question is not "How do we know the qualitative researcher's question is valid?" but rather, "How does the qualitative researcher choose from among a multitude of apparently valid or at least plausible…

A brief and simple guide discusses the place and purpose of coding experimental data in the research process. The trade-offs involved unitizing data are reviewed; it is noted that a decision that increases reliability may reduce the validity of results, but without reliability there will be no validity at all. A discussion of categorizing data…

The reluctance to use film and video equipment for systematic observation and recording can be partially attributed to an assumption of reactivity and internal invalidity. The results of the study discuss placement of the observer and the use of film in data collection. (Author/DEP)

Addresses problems with the definition of terms and validity of results of research on supported employment. Draws conclusions regarding the state of supported employment research. Comments on the value of retaining flexibility in the concept of supported employment in meeting the needs of consumers. (Author/NB)

Summarizes several studies of a goodness of fit model of psychosocial functioning. This model proposes that better psychosocial functioning will take place when a person's temperament is in accord with environmental demands. The studies done to date provide some support for the model. (Author/CI)

Monte Carlo validation studies of clustering algorithms, including Ward's minimum variance hierarchical method, are reviewed. Caution concerning the uncritical selection of Ward's method for recovering cluster structure is advised. Alternative explanations for differential recovery performance are explored and recommendations are made for future…

Addresses issue of range enhancement effects on correlations, asserting that, while adding to or deleting from sample can affect variance and correlation in sample, increases or decreases in individual differences in intact sample resulting from such factors as history, maturation, training, and experience will not necessarily affect correlations.…

Nursing intervention studies are much needed. However, careful delineation of independent variables and protocols is necessary to ensure the validity of results. (SK)

The third-year evaluation of the federally funded Washington, D.C. voucher program shows that low-income students offered vouchers in the first two years of the program had modestly higher reading scores after three years but showed no significant difference in mathematics. Students were randomly assigned to treatment and control groups, and the…

In cross-cultural child development research there is often a need to translate instruments and instructions to languages other than English. Typically, the translation process focuses on ensuring linguistic equivalence. However, establishment of linguistic equivalence through translation techniques is often not sufficient to guard against…

A report from the School Choice Demonstration Project examines issues concerning the funding formula used for the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP). It finds that the program generates a net saving to taxpayers in Wisconsin but imposes a significant fiscal burden on taxpayers in Milwaukee. However, these findings depend significantly on how…

Treatment integrity (also referred to as "treatment fidelity," "intervention integrity," and "procedural reliability") is an important methodological concerning both research and practice because treatment integrity data are essential to making valid conclusions regarding treatment outcomes. Despite its relationship to validity, treatment…

When unsubstantiated findings are used as a basis for national policy, the results can be disastrous"; the recent work by Moynihan and Mosteller, ostensibly proving" the Coleman report, actually points up its errors. (Editor/SP)

In an effort to maintain internal validity while maximizing the generalizability of evaluation results, the theory-testing methodology that links program activities to outcomes (program theory) is proposed. To evaluate a program by explicating and testing the program theory is to perform evaluation as theory testing. (PN)

As a result of rejection by personnel psychologists of the erroneous law of small numbers and of the adoption of correct inferential procedures, the future of criterion-related validity promises to be bright. Probable future developments include widespread appreciation of the low statistical power characteristic of small samples. (Author)