In research, the use of linear additive methods is expedient when prediction is the goal; however, when understanding is the goal, an exploration of non-linear multiplicative procedures is more appropriate. To compare the results of linear and non-linear models, data obtained from a survey of 35 bereaved mothers were compared using scattergrams,…

An expansionist/reductionist model is proposed, in which the naturalistic inquirer uses qualitative methods for evaluating social studies and proposing suggestions for improvement. Qualitative research is seen as a means of presenting a sensitive picture of the world view of the population studied that cannot be obtained by other research…

In an attempt to provide a framework for research and theory building in public management information systems (PMIS), state officials responsible for computing in personnel operations were surveyed. The data were applied to hypotheses arising from a recent model by Bozeman and Bretschneider, attempting to relate organization theory to management…

A set of studies done for the Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction (WSPI) constituted a case study testing the conjecture that management consulting is potentially cost effective in some areas of educational evaluation. The case study involved first interviewing 22 respondents from four WSPI constituencies (educators, employers,…

Semi-projective holistic methods in political science research can augment knowledge of political attitudes and political reasoning. Semi-projective methods refer to techniques which present focused or structured stimuli and allow an unrestricted range of responses. Visual stimuli include ink blots, standard drawings, political cartoons, or…

Real test data of unknown structure were analyzed using both a unidimensional and a multidimensional latent trait model in an attempt to determine the underlying components of the test. The models used were the three-parameter logistic model and a multidimensional extension of the two-parameter logistic model. The basic design for the analysis of…

Two methodological reviews of the Children's English and Services Study (CESS), a congressionally mandated estimate of the number and needs of limited English proficient children, are presented. Such reviews are needed because the CESS is the only national study of its kind which administered a language proficiency test to determine the language…

The plotting of multivariate data using computer line-printers has become a popular means of quickly representing multidimensional data. While many plotting programs are available, there is a paucity of research regarding the validity and reliability of interpretations made by viewing such graphics. This study explores the validity of four…

A rationale is presented for viewing the decision-making process inherent in determining budget reductions for educational programs as most effectively modeled by a graduated funding approach. The major tenets of the graduated budget reduction approach to educational fiscal policy include the development of multiple alternative reduction plans, or…

This paper outlines a methodology that school districts can use to enhance the presentation of district-wide testing program results to administrators, school boards, teachers, and the public. Based on John Tukey's two way analysis methodology, it involves fitting this model: test score equals overall plus year plus grade plus cohort plus…

Development of precise and usable information on the financial operations of day care centers has been hampered by a lack of definition of types of programs and units of service, and confusion in comparing prices and costs. This article reports on the testing of a system of financial reporting and cost analysis, applied to 29 day care centers and…

The purpose of this study was to identify and compare attitudes and preferences of parents and teachers concerning the parent-teacher conference as one effective technique of sharing information about the student's progress in school. (Author)

The view is widely held that there exists a distinct set of social differences between youth and adults. This study examined perceptions of high school students in urban and rural centers in Alberta regarding the generation gap. (Editor)

A group of children, in their last term of attendance at nursery schools, were tested on their comprehension of words used in the first books of well-known reading schemes. (Author)

This article presents the results of a study which was designed to test the effects of a natural resource camp in changing attitudes towards natural resource namagement. Subjects were 130 teenage boys selected on the basis of demonstrated leadership. Over a one-week period, attitudes generally became more favorable. (LS)