In this book, which applies the state of the art in qualitative research to special education, qualitative research is used as a generic term for investigative methodologies described variously as ethnographic, naturalistic, anthropological, field research, or participant-observer research. Chapter 1 introduces and defines qualitative research and explains how it differs from quantitative research. Chapter 2 discusses the characteristics of qualitative research and its utility in providing a holistic description of educational programs and their social validity. Chapters 3, 4, and 5 cover methodological considerations involved in designing, conducting, and reporting qualitative research. Specific points covered include: the pre-fieldwork stage, site and participant selection, researcher role, data collection, recording methods, data organization and analysis, corroboration, contents of a written report, report organization, report writing, and report dissemination. The validity, reliability, and generalizability of research findings from a qualitative theoretical orientation are discussed in Chapter 6. Chapter 7 provides guidelines for responsible use of qualitative methodology, by such means as avoiding misuse, avoiding undue claims, and considering ethical issues. (JDD)