Criticizes an earlier essay that questioned the validity of contemporary educational research practices, especially those involving experimentation. Argues that research using experimentation is valid and can lead to new and generalizable knowledge. (FMW)

The concept of skill is a matter of debate among occupational sociologists. Recent theorists tend to dismiss deskilling theory, but research findings are not yet conclusive. New lines of inquiry involving new technology and social construction of skills are emerging. Greater rigor in research is needed to contribute to policy debates. (105…

Provides a conceptual basis for understanding factor analysis as an analytical technique. Illustrates the basic concepts of factor analysis through Edward L. Rainbow's data from a study of variables influencing students' musical aptitude. Suggests that this technique is most appropriate in music applications where the interrelationships between…

Discusses the implications for scholarly research of the military action taken by the Chinese government during the recent student protests. Points out practical problems as well as moral issues concerning the resumption of normal scholarly activities in China. Explains the possible effects of China becoming a more closed society. (KO)

Describes seven myths concerning reading-level-match designs, in which individual differences in reading acquisition are compared for groups of different ages matched on some aspect of reading performance. Gives examples from the reading literature to illustrate these myths and to suggest more realistic alternatives. Summarizes relevant…

The bibliography lists 875 citations from over 40 professional journals and reports on diverse aspects of higher education for adult students. A brief introduction discusses the developmental stages of adult learners and the challenges of researching this diverse population. (MSE)

A review of four studies conducted by Ausubel raises serious doubts about the efficacy of advance organizers under a variety of circumstances. In addition, this review questions the adequacy of definitions for two central notions of subsumption theory (discriminability and advance organizer). (IAH)

Research articles published in 10 major journals during the years 1984-1987 were evaluated to determine how many satisfied the recommendations of the Council for Learning Disabilities' Research Committee on reporting subject data. Only 4 of the 277 articles included acceptable information in 7 recommended areas of subject data. (Author/JDD)

Notes that despite the frequent claims of the superiority of interdisciplinary teams over more usual care patterns, systematic studies of the effectiveness of geriatric interdisciplinary teams are rare. Illustrates the difficult conceptual and methodological problems encountered by investigators. Suggests future research directions. (Author/ABL)

Contends that attitudes of nursing home personnel have been measured inappropriately with scales based on negative stereotypes and inaccurate knowledge about the aged in the general population. Reconceptualizes attitudes from attitudes towards older people to attitudes towards behavior essential to the care of nursing home patients. (Author/ABL)

Presents a comprehensive review of literature written since 1970 relevant to American Indian mental health research dealing with infants, preschoolers, children, and adolescents. Analyzes and synthesizes literature and describes important biopsychosocial issues faced by American Indian communities, gaps in research, specific problems with past…

Researchers and service providers working in the field of the mental health aspects of mental retardation need to integrate their efforts, but barriers exist, including differences in culture, negative history, and competition for limited resources. Joint conferences and publications are recommended as well as graduate training programs and…

Proposes ethical principles for Arctic research suggested by the Barrow Alcohol Study. Suggests that lack of understanding of the Native community, the mistaken assumption that informed consent had been obtained, and the influence of (and political struggles among) non-Native institutions and agencies contributed to the problems. (DHP)

Focuses on key peer counseling implementation and research questions. Includes issues as to whether or not peer counseling expands professional support services; environmental impact, training content, process and duration of peer counseling programs, selection of peer counselors; referral patterns; and types of clients and problems undertaken.…

Fifteen anecdotes representing technical, conceptual, and political problems experienced by internationally recognized experts in the field of second language learning are presented. The anecdotes provide valuable insight for other researchers, users of research results, and for critical analyses of the second language research process. Author/CB)