The recommendation to use group means when there may be nonindependence among observational units is unduly restrictive. When random factors are properly identified and included in the analysis, the results are identical in balanced analysis of variance designs, irrespective of whether group means or individual observations are employed.…

A meta-analysis of outcomes from 32 studies investigating pretest effects was conducted. For all outcomes the average effect size was +.22, indicating an elevating effect of pretest on posttest. Duration of time between pre- and posttesting was also related to effect size. Researchers should continue to include pretest as a design variable.…

Critiques research on participation in terms of problems of measurement, definition, and the use of value-laden contructs. Compares qualitative and quantitative methods, further developing the qualitative approach and the influence of hermeneutics and phenomenology. (Author/SK)

Explored methodological limitations confronted by researchers who test theoretical statements using suicide data generated by public officials. Data pertaining to socioeconomic characteristics, religious preference, and factors influencing behavior are reported. The social worth criterion of the victim may influence the recording of suicide data.…

Reports problems connected with retrospective life span interviews of Australian older adults (N=204). Sources of bias arising from interview situations and interviewer/respondent interactions are discussed. Results suggest retrospective analysis deserves respect for factual potential. Gerontology research must also respect the integrity of the…

Naturalist and interpretive accounts of educational research lack an adequate philosophical account of its nature. Educational research is both interpretive and scientific. Only by repudiating divisions and distinctions that separate the research community from the educational community can research which is both educational and scientific by…

Analyzes data from a juvenile diversion program which seem to indicate that as program services increased, the likelihood of participant recidivism increased. Maintains that the unexpected findings resulted from flaws in data recording within the program and suggests that program designs should incorporate evaluation strategies in order to ensure…

Presents arguments concerning the linguistic assimilation of Blacks (West Indians) in Britain, and the research methodology used to examine this issue. One argument holds that the studies' designs are flawed, allowing a false interpretation that Blacks are linguistically assimilated; the other argument upholds the research findings. (WAS)

Analysis of the assumptions underlying the stakeholder approach to evaluation combined with the limited experience in testing the approach reported in this volume, suggests that some claims are cogent and others problematical. (Author)

Two methods for dividing an interrupted time-series study between baseline and experimental phases when study resources are limited are compared. In fixed designs, the baseline duration is predetermined. In flexible designs the baseline duration is contingent on remaining resources and the match of results to prior expectations of the evaluator.…

This study examined the possibility that satisfaction normally attributed to a main leisure activity are determined, to some extent, by secondary activities that also are a part of the recreational experience. The attitudes of recreational fishermen are discussed. (Author/PP)

Suggests that research on small group behavior, in a wide variety of settings, will be enhanced by rethinking alternative modes of enquiry, e.g., a focus on induction, a study of whole systems of human enterprise, the utilization of subjective experience, and trans-causal thinking. (Author/RC)

Contains seven articles discussing the application of meta-analysis to research on outcomes in psychotherapy. Provides a framework for understanding meta-analytic procedures and outlines major techniques. Reviews criticisms of integration of psychotherapy outcome research. Evaluates comparative therapy outcome research and discusses limitations of…

Problems with funding, politics, and policy formation for research in the social sciences raise the question of what results are expected from such research. Action based on research results usually does not follow closely the completion of research projects, and policy is often out of step with research. (MSE)