This paper presents the results of an heuristic study based on the research question: 'How do psychotherapists experience working with older clients?' The question came from the researchers' experience and interest in working with older clients in general practice. It started from the researchers' desire to examine more closely feelings and…

This article is the third contribution to a research methods series dedicated to getting good results from survey research. In this series, "good results" is a stenographic term used to define surveys that yield accurate and meaningful information that decision makers can use with confidence when conducting program evaluation and policy assessment…

This paper addresses questions raised about the validity of facilitated communication with autistic individuals and others having severe disabilities and offers examples from the authors' program to support the validity of facilitated communication. Published studies showing a high rate of unfounded claims of abuse under facilitated communication…

This paper reviews four currently recognized modes of inquiry available to reading researchers, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The paper discusses empiricism, interpretive research, critical science/theory, and action research, briefly describing the purposes, goals, and assumptions underlying each mode of inquiry. The…

The usefulness of meta-analysis in summarizing domains of primary research has led to widespread use of the techniques. Often, however, the researcher will have several options when cumulating empirical studies and readers will have questions regarding judgment calls made during a meta-analysis. In these cases, it is helpful to consult the primary…

Short-term studies often do not capture the full story of the effect that a researcher is trying to describe. If one wishes to elucidate long-term educational processes and outcomes, the only direct way of doing so is to stretch the duration of research projects and to study the same subjects over time. The limited availability of valid…

A critical review of studies on the use of sensory integration therapy with mentally retarded persons found inadequate experimental design and statistical procedures to support use of this therapy and interpretation of research results. (Author/DB)

In a response to a critique of studies on the use of sensory integration therapy with mentally retarded persons, the article suggests that the original authors should have encouraged professionals using this therapy to systematically evaluate outcomes rather than discouraging them from using the therapy. (DB)

Reviews and evaluates a computer-assisted learning package (available through CONDUIT) which illustrates important concepts in the design of experiments. These concepts increase the power of statistical tests to correctly reveal differences between experimental and control groups. Documentation, performance, and error handling are rated excellent;…

Some innovative solutions to two key graduate research problems, definition of the research problem and planning and writing the thesis first draft, are outlined. Workshops are recommended as an effective format for assisting students in developing research skills through practical guidance, group support, and discussion. (MSE)

Two experiments designed to assess brain hemispheric specialization of function are described. The first experiment involves tactile letter and number identification; the second one, verbal interference with a manual task. The experiments provide an excellent introduction to research methodology for undergraduate students. (Author/RM)

Provides an example of how archaeologists might conduct a hypothetical research program to illustrate how specific types of data are generated and then used to interpret prehistoric culture systems. A brief review of the historical development of American archaeology is also provided. (JN)

Because school district census-taking can be problematic, three Virginia administrators who conducted a 1983 triennial census were asked about their procedures. Survey form design, vendors, post office and community relations, telephone questions, and data checking are discussed. A sample form is included. (KS)

Describes a method used to help introductory college sociology students explore the range of sociological literature and become acquainted with the works of current scholars. Students read a number of journal articles and wrote critiques of six of them in the form of letters to their parents. (Author/AM)

Discusses how historians can use computer searches to obtain bibliographic information. Historical databases which allow online searches are described. Sample searches are used to illustrate the characteristics of and processes involved in computer searching. (AM)