Investigated accuracy of responses to biodata questionnaire using a test-retest design and informed external observers for verification. Responses from 237 subjects and 200 observers provided evidence that many responses to biodata questionnaire were accurate. Assessed sources of inaccuracy, including social desirability effects, and noted…

The first of a three-part series on teaching about photography, this article argues that photography is significantly different from drawing and painting and that the differences should be highlighted so that photography can be appreciated for what it uniquely offers. The concepts treated are selectivity, instantaneity, and credibility. (JDH)

Presents conceptual framework for library and information science research and analyzes research methodology that has application for information science, using as example results of study conducted by authors. Rationale for use of qualitative research methods in theory building is discussed and qualitative and quantitative research methods are…

Discusses the use and significance of geologic generalizations. Provides examples of different types of geologic observations and describes how they relate to the way explanations are formulated. Proposes that the mentioned generalizations be regarded as "laws." (ML)

Examines the tendency of observers to make less reliable recordings of behavorial events when a calibrating observer is absent. Using four different multicategory systems, 26 experienced observers coded 200 hours of videotaped family interactions. Concludes that observers lapse into a less attentive "set" prior to coding without a…

Investigates (1) whether differences between boys and girls indicated by teacher rating were similar to those indicated by direct observation and (2) whether teachers' assessments of the relative frequencies with which children show particular types of behavior agree with those obtained by direct observation. (RH)

Three studies of children's verb meanings examined the development of action categories and evaluated a model which posits that categories specific to self-action or observed action are extended to encompass both kinds of instances as children develop the ability to note parallels between themselves and others as initiators of action. (Author/BW)

Provides a critical overview of articles in this issue on field work in administration and policy. Focuses on three recurrent themes: field worker role; reciprocity (the repayment a fieldworker makes to his or her informants); and ethics. (KH)

Teacher evaluations can prove very effective if sufficient observation time is allowed, classroom activities are noted objectively and thoroughly, both positive and negative findings are discussed fully with the teacher, and opportunities for improvement are provided. (PGD)

Compares the participation of men and of women in child-related activities. Naturalistic observations of children (ranging from infancy to adolescence) and adults in public places were obtained. Findings support a sex-traditional model of adult involvement with children. (Author/KS)

Uses both the findings of formal research studies and the observations of sensitive teachers to illustrate the power of language for helping children gain control over, and put their mark upon, their surroundings. (HTH)

Briefly summarizes history of neurolinguistic programing, which set out to model elements and processes of effective communication and to reduce these to formulas that can be taught to others. Potential areas of inquiry for neurolinguistic programers which should be of concern to visual literacists are discussed. (MBR)

Examines social fantasy play in relation to several indices of social competence in a sample of 91 preschoolers (ages 35 to 69 months). Results indicate the amount and complexity of fantasy play significantly predicted four competency measures: teacher ratings of peer social skill, popularity, affective role taking, and a behavioral summary score…

Outlines a study of two teachers' image of "the classroom as home" illustrating how personal and professional experiences are expressed in their classroom practices. Offers a theoretical concept of "image" as knowledge incorporating theoretical, practical, objective, and subjective experience. (MD)

Describes instances in which conversation topics are audibly formulated in a classroom during a one-hour science lesson and how this task may be problematic for both participants and analysts of classroom talk. (HTH)