Causes of inconclusive results concerning learning hierarchy research are examined. Two suggestions are given for overcoming problems and research flaws: maintain Gagne's original design, modifying shortcomings; and follow more rigorous methods presented by the author. (SM)

Forumates two general laws relative to social science evaluations of public policy programs

When unsubstantiated findings are used as a basis for national policy, the results can be disastrous"; the recent work by Moynihan and Mosteller, ostensibly proving" the Coleman report, actually points up its errors. (Editor/SP)

The combined-cycle system is currently regarded as a useful procedure for producing electricity. This system can burn natural gas and oil distillates in addition to coal. In the future when natural gas stocks will be low, coal may become an important fuel for such systems. Considerable effort must be made for research on coal gasification and…

To implement the contemporary notion of process,'' ideas of methodological rigor based on causal determinism must be substituted by notions of carefulness based on acknowledgement of the observer's involvement in his own observations.'' (Author)

The author suggests that research into school learning has tended to neglect some important problems. He discusses the reasons for this and indicates that special needs and pressures in this area require consideration. (Author)

The author responds to criticism of a paper he presented which was discussed in a critique presented in this same issue. (CG(

A brief description of four of the major expedients that are being employed by doctoral candidates in counselling as they try to deal with problems in their research are presented. The result is a scarcity of findings having little consequence for either theory or practice. (Author/CG)

The question of whether it is the subject or the investigator who is deceived is discussed relative to McFall's study on the effect of self monitoring on smoking behavior. Perhaps the results should be evaluated by the subject rather than by the investigator. (KJ)