The logical flaw of using the methods of path analysis and structural equation modeling to make causative conclusions is demonstrated. A proper evaluation of the role of investigation versus experimentation is cited in the work of W. G. Cochran as explicated by D. R. Rubin (1983). (TJH)

Situations for which the researcher should use component analysis versus common factor analysis are discussed. Topics addressed include key algebraic similarities and differences, theoretical and practical issues, the factor indeterminacy issue, latent versus manifest variables, and differences between exploratory and confirmatory analysis…

The recent Carvo/Chall phonics debate (in the September and November "Kappan" issues) reduces children's early literacy development to a battle over methods. Reductionist disagreements and simplistic notions about complex behaviors must yield to a theoretically grounded, unified approach to literacy learning and instructional practices.…

Compares direct, explicit teaching of reading comprehension and current metaphor theory with the traditional approach to metaphor instruction found in basal readers. Finds statistically significant differences in favor of direct instruction of metaphor. (RS)

Discusses the problems of communications models. Presents a channel-ratio model that focuses on problems arising from intercultural interactions and addresses some practical needs of business communicators. Describes assumptions of the model, its elements, and its dynamic operation. Gives examples of the model's application to verbal and nonverbal…

Two responses are presented to a paper on treatment of self-injurious behavior by J. Mulick and J. Kedesdy. The responses discuss whether conflicts exist between normalizing care practices and behavior analytic methods, and describe social role valorization as a theoretical system with extensive empirical support, grounded in social and behavioral…

This article presents results of an analysis of literature which considers the research and conceptual bases of teacher education and staff development. This analysis reveals and discusses several shortcomings in the research bases undergirding teacher education and suggests future directions for inquiry. (IAH)

Claims Claiborn and Lichtenberg in "Interactional Counseling" (1989) have achieved their goal of providing integration and coherence to the theory, practice, and research of the previously nonintegrated counseling domain with distinction. Recommends a new training paradigm is needed to achieve the goal of self-modification of counselors'…

Comments upon Claiborn and Lichtenberg's "Interactional Counseling" (1989). Claims the problem with their article is the initial premise; contends that theoretical integration and its counterpart eclecticism are not admirable. Notes that progress in human interaction research has been made in proportion to the researcher's specificity.…

Proposes framework for understanding the phrase "new scholarship on women." Lists and describes six tenets involved in perspective: women and men are viewed as whole persons; study of each group is valued; egalitarianism and use of the dialectic; qualitative and quantitative scholarship are valued; values are constantly explored in research and…

Examines the discrepancies between what undergraduate language arts methods students think about writing and their actual responses to children's text. (SR)

Argues that applied research has potential for making important theoretical contributions. Demonstrates the potential contribution of practical applications to theoretical development by discussing the procedures employed and difficulties encountered in developing and assessing Iowa's Program Against Smoking (I-PAS), an adolescent smoking…

A survey of 772 teachers revealed that only 16.2 percent were able to name or describe a learning theory that supports their classroom teaching practices. Findings also suggest that many teachers cannot differentiate between learning theory and teaching practices. Recommendations for teacher education conclude a discussion of survey results. (IAH)

Explores the application of social construction theory to the college composition classroom. Suggests that writing instructors should (1) examine the interpretive communities they seek to create; and (2) question what is meant by introducing students to college-level discourse. Argues that the entire university system must address this issue. (KEH)

Examines the role of communication consultants in political campaigns from the perspective of an academic who manages campaigns. Discusses the role of communication research in determining political strategies. Presents a case analysis of the media plan designed for one mayoral candidate. Evaluates the value of applied research from this…