As complex, sophisticated techniques for statistical analysis become easier to obtain and apply, it becomes increasingly critical for researchers to examine their data prior to analysis to ensure that the data are suitable for analysis. Exploratory Data Analysis provides methods for subjecting data to appropriate pre-analysis scrutiny. (PGD)

The authors demonstrate how exponential smoothing can play a role in the identification of the intervention component of an interrupted time-series design model that is analogous to the role that the sample autocorrelation and partial autocorrelation functions serve in the identification of the noise portion of such a model. (Author/BW)

This paper demonstrates the variety of positive-skew phenomena and discusses their theoretical, research, and practical implications in education. (PN)

Factor and cluster analyses are distinctly different multivariate procedures with different goals. However, when used in a complementary fashion, each set of methods can be used to enhance the interpretation of results found in the other set of methods. Simple examples illustrating the joint use of the methods are provided. (Author)

This note proposes an alternative implementation of the regression method which should be slightly faster than the principal components methods for estimating missing data. (RC)

An empirical comparison is made of three proposed indices of relative predictor variable contribution: (1) the scaled weights of the first discriminant function; (2) the total group estimates of the correlations between each predictor variable and the first function; and (3) the within-groups estimates of the correlations between each predictor…

This paper focuses on the social bases of support for sex education among the general population. The data were drawn from a survey by the National Opinion Research Center, and the respondents selected represented a national probability sample. (Editor)

Author looked at research's hidden curriculum, and suggested that its techniques and assumptions need to be demystified. (Editor/RK)

Calculates human capital earnings functions over 20 years for 822 men (the Terman sample) and argues that the percentage of gross earnings invested in education may fall below 100 percent well before school ends. (Available from the Secretary's Office, American Economic Association, 1313 21st Ave., South, Nashville, Tennessee 37212) (Author/JG)

This computerized information system, developed to satisfy the need for a current and accurate emissions data base, is designed to contain source test data; chemical, physical, and bioassay testing results performed on particulate samples; process descriptions of the sources; and descriptions of the sampling equipment and techniques employed. (BT)

Professional development research suggests that teachers learn best from and with each other in ongoing, job-embedded activities. "A Facilitator's Guide to Professional Learning Teams" provides a way of engaging school faculties in sustained, onsite professional development that builds capacity and collegiality, improves teaching quality, and…

This study examined the way qualitative data analysis software and virtual teaching methods can support the learning of qualitative research. Study methodology was based on phenomenology, and data were gathered in a pilot course on qualitative research methodology in which 22 adult part time graduate students participated. The course was built…

This paper addresses three key topics related to making state National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) assessments more efficient: (1) reducing the burden for the states; (2) stabilizing the assessment schedule; and (3) facilitating and promoting the use of state NAEP data. The paper recommends promoting the use of state NAEP data for…

This book, designed for novice researchers, provides a step-by-step guide to the development of a research project. It emphasizes learning how to do qualitative work and provides specific examples from real studies. The chapters are: (1) "Deciding To Do a Qualitative Study"; (2) "Designing Qualitative Studies"; (3) "Collecting Qualitative Data";…

This paper introduces a new decision support tool, data mining, in the context of knowledge management. The most striking features of data mining techniques are clustering and prediction. The clustering aspect of data mining offers comprehensive characteristics analysis of students, while the predicting function estimates the likelihood for a…