Whenever there is a data gathering need and a group of people have input, the group interview may be a viable approach. The authors offer a step-by-step model for conducting group interviews. (JOW)

Syracuse University's use of a personal computer to keep track of alumni reunion registration is described. They can take reservations over the phone, produce lists of returning alumni according to different categories, give catering current meal counts, keep track of special requests, and write personalized confirmation letters. (MLW)

In 1985, the Center for Education Statistics began a review of its elementary and secondary education data collection programs. The intended product of the redesign was a new plan for national data collection from institutions and individuals. This collection of articles describes the redesign project. (RB)

Reasons for not returning a questionnaire were studied among Lutheran church members sent a postcard to indicate no intention of replying. The analysis is based on 431 returned postcards. For most nonresponders, the interest value of the questionnaire topic was not high enough. Many who returned the negative reply card would be resistant…

Reports on a study designed to define the demographic and career characteristics and the values of lawmakers in the United States and Canada. Discusses how this information was used to predict policy decisions. (TW)

The advantages and disadvantages of balanced incomplete block designs are clarified and their use is demonstrated with an empirical example. A procedure for reducing data of this type to analyzable form is proposed, and an analytical approach that is appropriate for the resulting data is illustrated. (Author/BW)

Presents an argument for schools developing a number of curriculum and instruction questions that critically question the place of information technology in school programs. What information is of worth and for what purposes? (MD)

The results of a content analysis of the mail survey methodologies used in three studies of diverse higher education topics are reported. Each study used Dillman's Total Design Method procedures and obtained a high rate of return. (MLW)

Rejects Peter C. Gronn's criticisms of structured observation as a method for studying administrators, arguing that these criticisms grow from a limited conception of administration and an overzealous promotion of alternative research techniques. (PGD)

A Commodore-64 microcomputer was used to develop a system which is useful for a variety of teaching laboratory and real time control applications. Hardware and software requirements and examples of experimental work with the system are provided. (JN)

A Kansas school district administrative evaluation plan is outlined emphasizing continuity and compatibility of administrative positions. The plan has improved administrative intraschool relationships. (MD)

Overview of federal collection of health statistics highlights federal budgets; the National Center for Health Statistics (role, periodicity report); vital statistics (surveys of physicians, hospitals, nursing homes); household surveys (National Health Interview Survey); and proposed reorganization of the Office of the Assistant Secretary of…

The federal government, credit bureaus, banks, and insurance and telephone companies all maintain files on clients. Once available, the temptation to use information on file is often irresistible. In terms of personal privacy, the most frightening development is the growth of computer-matching programs, where two agencies check each others' files.…

Discusses the domain of measurement and evaluation: methods of data collection, focus of evaluation, criteria for evaluation, and purpose of evaluation. (MLH)

An educational feasibility framework is described which considers constraints to feasibility, sources of data for determining feasibility, and feasibility study methodology. (Author)