Discusses challenges posed by reflexivity and the problem of unconsciousness. Argues that reflexivity demands scrutiny and articulation of the verbal, non-verbal and contextual components that define a particular research project. Presents examples of qualitative methods and the diverse approaches from which they proceed. (RJM)

Democratic schooling extends beyond governance structures into all areas of educational practice. What are appropriate practices for democratic schools? This question was addressed by a qualitative study of principals in schools striving to become more democratic. These principals expanded decision-making involvement and discourse, stressed…

Argues that the psychosocial bases of achievement motivation, when integrated with principles of cultural anthropology and cultural psychology, will move both theory and research forward. Maintains that researchers should contextualize research questions, develop authentic means of inquiry, and acknowledge within-group differences. Presents…

Following almost two years' field practice, substantial study and discussion a cohort of Educational Psychologists in Training (EPITs) (N=11) shared their perspectives about the current challenges for EPs. Data analysis suggested that the challenge for EPs and their services was to adopt an "ecological" or "systemic"…

Argues that children's life experiences as members of families, schools, and the wider society provide understandings that must be taken into account if they are to appreciate the principles and purposes that underpin democratic practices. Investigates the perceptions of children (n=27) on their constructions of power and politics. (DAJ)

Presents a study that focuses on the dissonant study orchestrations of high-achieving university students. Examines the relationship between study orchestrations and study success. States that advanced psychology students' dissonant study orchestrations were compared with previous findings of advanced medical students orchestrations. Includes…

Describes a collaborative art-based autobiography project executed by a teacher educator/artist and preservice elementary teachers. The project crossed boundaries between research and practice, combining arts-based teaching, qualitative research, and presentation of multiple perspectives in an installation as a way of displaying data. The article…

Examines the relationships between cultural values and experiences of happiness in two samples focusing on university students in Taiwan (n=439) and the United Kingdom (n=344). Reports that the relationships between values and happiness were stronger in the Taiwanese sample. Includes references and an appendix. (CMK)

Shares insights and experiences of three students that might smooth the way for other graduate students who may be struggling to chart their own courses to the "PhD shore." Suggests that it is ultimately the student who must take ownership and chart a course through the "choppy dissertation waters." (SG)

Primary school teachers' responses to interview questions about science concepts are described and compared in general terms with views of scientific concepts held by children. Some possible implications of the findings for the development of primary science are outlined. Sample interview questions are included. (Author/CW)

Qualitative research has a limited role in the total research effort in sport pedagogy. This article discusses problems and limitations of qualitative research. Topics include trustworthiness of data, oversimplified comparisons between quantitative and qualitative research, and appropriate contexts for using qualitative research as the method of…

Investigates the role of social interaction in the literacy learning of three- and four-year-olds. Finds that children's self-selected literacy activities are rich contexts for literacy learning, and that social interaction provides context and motivation for literacy learning, and influences the kinds of literacy strategies children internalize…

In-depth qualitative discussion using the nominal group technique examined freshmen's (N=122) perceived susceptibility to AIDS and barriers to prevention. Suggestions, based on students' comments, are made for improving AIDS-prevention programs on campus. (Author/IAH)

Illustrates that ethnographic research is not antipathetic to controlled experimental or quasi-experimental research. Argues that qualitative and various kinds of quantitative research need to be used in productive symbiotic relationships. (RAE)

A qualitative case study and monitoring data complemented a study of the evaluation of a health promotion program (Project LIFE) conducted in 23 rubber-producing plants in the United States. The study illustrates assessment of threats to internal validity, including the degree to which the planned intervention was actually implemented. (SLD)